The Modern Lift: Facelifts That Look Effortlessly You

Facelifts are having a moment. No longer reserved for older generations, the modern facelift has undergone its own transformation, offering natural results with less downtime. In fact, they’re up 18% according to recent stats, and it’s not hard to see why. With social media driving the conversation and the demand for subtle, long-lasting results increasing, facelifts have become a go-to for anyone looking to freshen up their look without looking, well, overdone. So, what exactly is happening in the world of facelifts, and why is everyone from 35 to 55 jumping on board?

What’s Really New in Facelift Trends?

The era of the super tight, "wind-tunnel" facelift is long gone. The procedure has evolved, with techniques now focusing on repositioning the deeper layers of the face rather than just pulling the skin tight. Dr. Kevin Sadati, an Orange County-based facial plastic surgeon, says, "Today’s facelifts are all about looking refreshed, not transformed." This shift has led to a surge in younger patients opting for facelifts earlier to address subtle aging before it becomes too pronounced.

The technique getting the most buzz? The deep plane facelift. Originally developed in the ‘90s, it’s back in the spotlight thanks to social media and surgeons who swear by its more natural, long-lasting results. Unlike traditional facelifts that focus on pulling the skin tight, the deep plane method targets the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system)—essentially the muscle and tissue under the skin—lifting everything as one unit. This allows the face to maintain its natural movement and expression while addressing sagging in the cheeks and jawline.

Preservation Facelift: The Next Big Thing?

Dr. Sadati is also known for his preservation facelift, a technique that aims to minimize skin trauma. Lifting the deep layer without elevating excessive skin tissue, this method keeps more of the skin’s natural blood supply intact, which leads to faster recovery times and fewer complications like scarring and bleeding. “We’re able to achieve a beautiful, natural lift without the downtime and risks associated with more aggressive techniques,” says Dr. Sadati.

This approach is part of a larger trend toward less invasive procedures. People are now looking for ways to maintain their appearance with fewer risks and shorter recovery times. The preservation facelift checks all those boxes, making it an appealing option for patients who want a more refreshed look without major surgery.

The Social Media Facelift

We can’t talk about facelifts in 2024 without acknowledging the role of social media. Instagram and TikTok have turned the deep plane facelift into a viral sensation. But not all the hype is grounded in reality. According to Dr. Sadati, “There’s a lot of confusion about what’s actually happening in these procedures. Some surgeons are branding their facelifts with fancy names that sound revolutionary, but in reality, they’re just variations of techniques we’ve been doing for decades.”

The Insta-famous Lunchtime facelift, for example, is often marketed as a quick-fix, no-scar procedure, but Dr. Sadati points out that the results are not always as dramatic or long-lasting as people think. "Patients come in expecting miracles, but the truth is that not everyone is a candidate for these minimally invasive procedures," he explains.

Beyond the Face: The Structural Neck Lift

While facelifts typically focus on the lower half of the face, the neck has become a big focus in recent years. Enter the deep structural neck lift. This technique goes beyond just tightening the skin; it addresses the underlying muscles and glands to create a more defined jawline and smoother neck. Dr. Sadati emphasizes that the deep neck lift is a game-changer for those dealing with excess fat or loose skin under the chin. “By removing or contouring the submandibular glands and trimming the muscles, we can create a much sleeker, more youthful neck contour,” he says.

The Power of Combining Procedures

Another trend is pairing facelifts with other treatments like fat grafting, lip lift, eyelid lift, browlift , or laser resurfacing. While a facelift can tighten and lift, it doesn’t take care of issues like volume loss or skin texture. That’s where treatments like fat transfer come into play, adding volume back to areas like the cheeks or under the eyes for a more youthful appearance. “We’re able to address multiple signs of aging at once, which creates a more comprehensive result,” says Dr. Sadati.

Patients are also increasingly turning to Botox and fillers to maintain their facelift results. “A facelift gives you a great foundation, but injectables help keep everything looking fresh,” Dr. Sadati notes. Regular maintenance with non-invasive treatments can extend the life of your facelift, making it less likely that you’ll need a touch-up surgery in the future.

Maintaining Your Results: It’s a Lifestyle

While the surgical techniques have improved, maintaining your results is key to getting the most out of a facelift. Dr. Sadati recommends a combination of a good skincare routine, sun protection, and consistent healthy lifestyle habits to keep your skin looking youthful. "What you do after your surgery is just as important as the surgery itself. Good skin care, a healthy diet, and avoiding excessive sun exposure can help your results last longer," he explains. Non-surgical treatments like laser resurfacing and microneedling can also be used to maintain skin texture and firmness. "These treatments help boost collagen production, which is essential for keeping your skin looking firm and youthful," adds Dr. Sadati.

The Future of Facelifts

With all the innovation happening in facelifts, one thing is clear: the current trend is moving toward customization. Surgeons are increasingly tailoring facelifts to each patient’s unique needs and anatomy rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. This means that whether you’re in your 40s looking for a subtle lift or in your 60s wanting a more dramatic change, there’s a facelift technique that can help you achieve your goals.

Facelifts today are about creating balance and harmony in the face. And with advances in techniques, the results are more natural and longer-lasting. Whether it’s a preservation deep plane facelift technique, or a combination of treatments, the modern facelift is all about enhancing your natural beauty in a way that feels fresh and effortless.

Final Thoughts

Facelifts have come a long way, and with the rise of techniques like the extended deep plane and preservation facelifts, patients are seeing more natural, lasting results with less downtime. Whether you’re looking to address sagging or volume loss or simply refresh your look, there’s a modern facelift option for you. The key is understanding that the procedure is not just about tightening the skin—it's about restoring your natural features in a way that looks and feels authentic.