How Long Do Facelift Results Last?
An honest look at what you can expect—and how to make your results last longer.
If you’re considering a facelift, one of the first questions you might have is, “How long will it last?” After all, surgery is an investment—in time, money, and recovery—so it’s only natural to want to know how many years you’ll enjoy your refreshed look.
We sat down with Dr. Siamak Agha to answer the most common questions about facelift longevity, how aging plays a role, and what you can do to make the results last as long as possible.
So, how long does a facelift last?
Dr. Agha: Most facelifts last anywhere from 8 to 12 years—sometimes even longer with advanced techniques like the deep plane facelift. But it’s important to remember that a facelift doesn’t stop the natural aging process. What it does is reset the clock, taking years off your appearance. You’ll still age, but you’ll look younger than if you had never had surgery.
Why do results vary from person to person?
Dr. Agha: Several factors influence how long facelift results last:
- Surgical technique: Deeper techniques like the deep plane facelift tend to have more longevity than skin-only lifts.
- Skin quality: Genetics, sun exposure, and past lifestyle habits affect how skin ages after surgery.
- Lifestyle choices: Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and fluctuating weight can shorten the lifespan of your results.
- Age at the time of surgery: Younger patients often enjoy longer-lasting outcomes because their skin has more natural elasticity.
Is there a difference between facelift types in terms of longevity?
Dr. Agha: Yes. A traditional SMAS facelift often lasts 7–10 years. A deep plane facelift, which lifts and repositions deeper layers of tissue, can last 10–15 years because it addresses aging at its structural foundation. Mini facelifts tend to last 5–7 years because they’re less invasive and focus on more subtle changes.
What can I do to make my results last longer?
Dr. Agha: There’s a lot you can do to protect your investment:
- Sun protection: Wear sunscreen daily and limit direct sun exposure.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a stable weight, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking.
- Non-surgical maintenance: Consider treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, or laser resurfacing to slow the signs of aging.
- Good skincare: Use medical-grade skincare products to keep your skin hydrated and supported.
Will I need another facelift in the future?
Dr. Agha: Possibly, if you want to maintain a more youthful appearance long-term. Many patients choose a secondary facelift 10–15 years later, while others opt for smaller “touch-up” procedures or non-surgical treatments as they age.
“A facelift isn’t about freezing time—it’s about enjoying a younger, refreshed version of yourself for years to come.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine a facelift with other procedures to improve longevity?
Yes. Procedures like a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or neck lift can enhance balance and help your results age more naturally.
Does skin type affect how long results last?
Yes—thicker, more elastic skin tends to hold results longer. Very thin or sun-damaged skin may show signs of aging sooner.
Will gaining or losing weight affect my results?
Significant weight changes can affect facial contours, which may alter the appearance of your facelift.
Are deep plane facelifts worth it for longevity?
For many patients, yes—the deeper lift provides a more durable result and often looks more natural as you age.
Your Next Step
If you’ve been thinking about a facelift and want to know which approach will give you the best—and longest-lasting—results, schedule a consultation with Dr. Siamak Agha in Newport Beach. Together, you can design a plan that delivers the youthful, refreshed look you want and keeps it looking beautiful for years.
Call us today or request a consultation online to take the first step toward your transformation.
