Is It Time for a Facelift? Here's All You Need to Know

Ageing affects every face differently. At some point, non-surgical face-lifting treatments may no longer give the results you want. How do you know when it’s time to consider a facelift? What does the process involve? This article helps you weigh the options and understand what to expect if you choose a facelift.

When Non-Surgical Face-Lifting Treatments Are Usually Effective

You can consider non-surgical face-lifting treatments if you notice early and mild signs of ageing.

• Skin that feels slightly loose but snaps back when gently pulled, also known as mild skin laxity.
• Fine lines or shallow wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, forehead, or mouth.
• Early jowling.
• Hollows under the eyes or slight flattening of the cheeks.

Here are common non-surgical face-lifting treatments:

• Dermal fillers which restore lost volume in the cheeks, under the eyes, or around the mouth. 
• Energy-based devices (ultrasound or radiofrequency), which stimulate collagen production to gradually tighten skin over several months.

Key Signs You May Need a Facelift Instead

If you have more advanced signs of facial ageing, you might benefit from a surgical facelift instead. These signs include:

• Pronounced jowls.
• Loose skin on the neck.
• Deep nasolabial folds, which are lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth that remain even when the face is relaxed.
• Significant midface drooping where cheeks have shifted downward, creating a tired or hollow appearance.
• Limited response to non-surgical face-lifting treatments.

These signs often mean that the deeper layers of your face — not just the skin — need to be repositioned. A surgical facelift can address these structures directly.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Facelift vs Face-Lifting Treatment

Whether you decide to get a surgical facelift or a non-surgical face-lifting treatment, it helps to weigh these factors carefully. 

Age and Skin Condition

You’ll typically start to see significant sagging of the face or neck in your forties to sixties. At this stage, surgery may be the recommended course of action because it can reposition deeper tissues and remove excess skin in a way non-surgical treatments can’t.

In your thirties to early forties, when your face’s underlying structures haven’t shifted too much, non-surgical face-lifting treatments may be more effective. 

Desired Longevity of Results

A facelift generally provides results that last several years, though your face will continue to age naturally. Non-surgical face-lifting treatments offer shorter-term improvement — usually a few months to a year — and require regular maintenance sessions to sustain results.

So if you prefer a less invasive approach and are comfortable with ongoing touch-ups, non-surgical treatments may be a good first step. But if you want a longer-lasting change and fewer repeat visits over time, a facelift may align better with your goals.

Willingness and Ability to Undergo Surgery and Recovery

Before choosing a facelift, think about whether you can commit to the surgery and recovery process. The procedure is done under anaesthesia and involves small incisions, which means your body needs time to heal. As you recover, you’ll need to make some lifestyle adjustments, such as limiting physical activity, sleeping with your head elevated, and taking time off work.

Budget Considerations

Facelifts involve a higher upfront cost compared with non-surgical face-lifting treatments, though they can also add up over time from multiple sessions.

What to Expect from a Facelift Procedure

Knowing what happens before, during, and after a facelift can help you prepare and feel more confident about getting one.

Before Surgery

You’ll start with a consultation, where your surgeon reviews your medical history, examines your face, and discusses the type of facelift that suits your needs. 

During Surgery

Under general anaesthesia or sedation, the surgeon makes small incisions around the ears, sometimes extending into the hairline. Through these incisions, they lift and reposition the deeper tissues of the face and remove any excess skin. The incisions are then closed with fine sutures.

Recovery Period

Your face may feel tight and swollen for the first few days post-surgery. Bruising and swelling are common and typically improve within one to two weeks. You may have bandages or drains in place for a short time, which your surgeon will remove during follow-up visits.

Ready to Explore Facelifts?

If you’re considering a facelift or wondering whether non-surgical treatments might still work for you, speak with any of our qualified plastic surgeons at Polaris Plastic Surgery. 

With us, you can discuss your goals, review your medical history, and get clear advice on whether surgery, non-surgical face-lifting treatments, or a combination would be the most suitable approach. Schedule an appointment here.

FAQs on Face-Lifting Treatments

What is the best face-lifting treatment?

The best treatment depends on how much sagging you have. Non-surgical treatments are often more effective if you have mild skin laxity. A surgical facelift is usually recommended for more significant sagging because it repositions deeper tissues and removes excess skin.

How long does a facelift last?

A facelift typically lasts seven to 10 years before ageing changes become noticeable again.

Can I lift my face without surgery?

Yes. You can choose non-surgical face-lifting treatments like fillers, injections, or ultrasound-based tightening. These give temporary results and require maintenance sessions.