Facelifts are one of the most widely known cosmetic treatments available. While they’ve traditionally been popular for patients 60 years and older, an increasing number of younger people are seeking facelifts. At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, Dr. Charles Guy and his team specialize in plastic surgery from the collarbone upward. Here, we’ll discuss the typical ages for a facelift and what to consider beforehand.

Benefits of a Facelift

Cosmetic surgery helps patients look younger and improve their appearance. A facelift is a highly effective option for targeting troublesome areas, such as sagging cheeks, excess skin at the jawline or neck, and deep skin folds that run from the side of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. And for many patients, the reasons for this procedure go well beyond the surface. These include the following:

  • Long-lasting rejuvenation: While there are no guarantees on the timeframes for results, the effects of most facelifts last for years before touchups are needed.
  • Increasing self-confidence: For many people, a younger, fresher look coincides with a boost in self-confidence and a higher quality of life.
  • Natural results: Modern facelifts achieve results without looking overdone, fostering a naturally looking younger aesthetic.

Facelifts for Patients Under 60

Patients don’t have to wait until they are 60 or 70 years old before consulting a plastic surgeon. If someone is considering a facelift, scheduling a consultation before their golden years may be ideal. Plus, many patients can select the mini facelift instead of the full surgery. Often chosen by people in their 40s and 50s, mini facelifts produce similar results but are less invasive.

As with any other cosmetic procedure, there are several factors to consider. Common reasons getting a facelift sooner sounds appealing to many people include:

Health Concerns

Before a patient consents to a cosmetic procedure, it’s important to take their overall health into account. The ideal candidates for facelift surgery are healthy individuals who are free of any medical conditions that will impede the recovery process.

Post-Operative Period

Patients should have a realistic idea of what recovery will be like at any age. Along with healing incisions, many recovering patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising immediately following surgery. However, many younger patients decide to get a facelift because it could be easier for them to get through the recovery period than it would be if they waited until they are older.

Natural-Looking Results

Many patients over the age of 60 hope to turn the clock back by about 20 years all at once. This is a dramatic change in appearance. However, many younger patients don’t have to go back that far to achieve a younger aesthetic – only five or 10 years. This means their results tend to look more natural.

Facelifts Aren’t the Only Option

It’s worth noting that facelifts are just one of the cosmetic services that can help improve a patient’s appearance. It’s recommended that young people in their 30s should focus on everyday skincare practices that help prevent UV damage and premature signs of aging. People also can combat wrinkles and fine lines earlier in their lifetime through procedures such as:

Fillers and other injectables also are among the methods younger people can use to achieve a more rejuvenated appearance. They visibly reduce the signs of aging and often yield instant results. And because they’re not as long-lasting as a traditional facelift, some patients try these first to get a sense of their goals and comfort level before going any further.

Discuss Your Options With Dr. Charles Guy

Cosmetic surgery is a personal choice, and there’s no right path for everyone. If you’re considering a facelift but aren’t sure if it’s the right time or need more information about the options available, consult Dr. Charles Guy at Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas. Our patients don’t have to drive to Austin or Dallas for top-tier cosmetic treatment. The team is proud to offer outstanding plastic surgery services backed by a strong reputation for success in Waco and Central Texas. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.