Different types of facelift surgery, such as traditional, mini, or deep plane facelift, address unique areas of facial aging by varying in scope, depth, and technique. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, I deliver tailored rejuvenation based on your facial anatomy, aging symptoms, and aesthetic goals.
There are several different types of facelift surgery, each with its own unique advantages. Let’s explore them below so you can take the next steps toward your transformation with confidence.
What Does a Facelift Do?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a type of plastic surgery that rejuvenates the face and neck by lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissues. It primarily addresses:
- Sagging cheeks
- Droopy jowls
- Deep creases, wrinkles, and lines
- Turkey neck and double chin
One typically considers facial surgery to rejuvenate the face and neck after age 40, though a personalized consultation is the best way to determine candidacy.
What Are the Most Common Facelift Procedures?
From a mini lift to a deep plane facelift, I perform several advanced facelift techniques at Potomac Plastic Surgery, including:
Traditional facelift
This is the most common type of facelift, also known as a full facelift, that addresses both the upper and lower face. It involves making incisions in the hairline, under the chin, and around the ears to lift and tighten the skin and muscles of the face and neck. Fat transfer may also be performed.
Mini facelift
Also known as a limited-incision facelift, a mini facelift is less invasive than a traditional facelift and is often used for younger patients or those with less skin laxity. It involves smaller incisions around the ears and focuses on lifting the middle and lower face. Doctors have used various names for mini facelift surgery such as “s lift”, “a quick lift”, and “a lifestyle lift”. One issue for mini lifts is that they generally aren’t long-lasting, especially for those who have more severe tissue laxity.
Neck lift
This procedure specifically targets the neck area to address sagging skin, weak chin bone, excess fat, and muscle laxity in the neck. A neck lift may be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with a facelift. Isolated neck lifts can be performed in younger patients under 40 years old, which include neck liposuction and chin augmentation.
Mid facelift
A mid facelift targets the middle portion of the face, including the cheeks and lower eyelids. It can help lift and tighten the cheeks, reduce nasolabial folds (smile lines), and restore volume to the midface. Mid facelift surgery is often combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) and other facial plastic surgeries.
SMAS facelift
A popular facelift approach among plastic surgeons, a SMAS lift tightens the layer of muscle under the skin. This type of facelift focuses on the lower face and neck. Incisions are around the ears and under the chin.
Deep plane facelift
I’m among a select group of double board-certified facial plastic surgeons with the experience to perform deep plane facelift surgery. This more advanced facelift technique involves lifting and repositioning the deep facial tissues, including the muscles and fat pads. It provides more extensive and longer-lasting results compared to traditional and SMAS facelifts, but also requires greater surgical skill and expertise.
View our before-and-after facelift gallery to see the natural results that are possible with this approach.
What Are Nonsurgical Alternatives to a Facelift?
While we offer several nonsurgical treatments, such as injectables and fat transfer, there simply isn’t a worthwhile nonsurgical option to a facelift once significantly loose skin and sagging tissue are present. BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers can temporarily smooth wrinkles and restore lost volume, but they do not provide the dramatic, long-lasting results of a surgical facelift. This approach is commonly referred to as a liquid facelift.
When to Consult With a Facelift Specialist
It’s important to consult a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable facelift type for your anatomy, goals, and expectations. Read more about choosing the best facelift.
If you’re ready to explore your candidacy and options, I encourage you to request a consultation by completing the online form or calling us at (202) 800-2085.
This blog post was originally published in April 2023 and updated in March 2026.
Leave a Reply