The Best Time for a Facelift & How Long They Last Based on Age

‍

When it comes to cosmetic surgery, timing matters, and that’s especially true for facelifts. Many people considering a facelift ask, “What’s the best age for this?” or “Will I get better results if I wait or go earlier?” The truth is, there’s no single “perfect” age. Instead, the right time depends on your skin type, lifestyle, goals, and overall health.

‍

For that reason, understanding how age impacts facelift results, and how long those results last, can help you make an informed, confident decision about when to take the next step in your aesthetic journey. Let’s see what our Bliss team has to say… 

‍

The Basics: What is a Facelift and What Does It Do?

‍

A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical operation that lifts and repositions the deeper tissues of the face to decrease the appearance of aging. Unlike injectables or surface treatments, a facelift focuses on the mid and lower face, often including the jawline and neck.

‍

People seek facelifts to improve:

‍

• Sagging skin or jowls
• Deep creases around the mouth and nose
• Loss of volume and definition in the lower face
• And neck laxity and vertical banding

‍

The goal isn’t to look like someone else, but to look refreshed, rested, and more like yourself.

‍

Best Age Range for a Facelift

‍

While everyone's face ages differently, most patients choose to have their first facelift in their late 40s and early 60s. At this time, indications of aging become more obvious, but the skin retains enough flexibility to recover and respond well to surgery. Here’s a breakdown:

‍

Facelifts in Your 30s

‍

A full facelift is rarely necessary in your 30s unless aging is accelerated by genetics or lifestyle. Non-surgical treatments, including lasers, microneedling, and fillers, can help keep your skin looking young at this stage. If surgery is performed this early, the benefits may be subtle, and you may still require a revision later in life.

‍

Facelifts in Your 40s and 50s

‍

This is commonly referred to as the "sweet spot." The reason for this includes: 

‍

• You may notice jowling, sagging, or deepening lines.
• Skin typically still has good elasticity, so recovery is smoother.
• The procedure can be more preventative, maintaining youth rather than dramatically reversing aging.

‍

A facelift at this stage often produces the most natural and long-lasting results.

‍

Facelifts in Your 60s and 70s

‍

It's never too late to refresh your look. Many people achieve outstanding outcomes in their 60s and 70s, particularly if they are in good health. Some things to consider:

‍

• Older patients may require more extensive lifting.
• Skin may take longer to heal, and results may not last as long as in younger skin.
• Additional procedures like eyelid surgery or fat grafting may be recommended for balance.

‍

Ultimately, the best age is when you feel ready and meet the health and candidacy criteria.

‍

‍

How Long Facelifts Last by Age

‍

On average, facelift results last between 8 and 15 years. That being said, how long your results last depends on several factors, such as:

‍

• Age at the Time of Surgery: Younger patients tend to get longer-lasting results because of better skin elasticity.
• Skin Quality and Thickness: Firmer, more resilient skin ages more slowly.
• Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, sun exposure, diet, and stress can all speed up visible aging.
• Surgical Technique: SMAS (deep tissue) facelifts last longer than skin-only lifts.

‍

In general:

• Patients in their 40s may enjoy 10 to 15 years of improvement.
• Those in their 60s may see 8 to 10 years of results.

‍

Overall, even as the face continues to age naturally, patients often look younger than if they hadn’t had surgery at all.

‍

‍

Alternative and Complementary Facial Treatments

‍

If you're not ready for a full facelift but still want a visible improvement in your skin, there are a few more options available. Some include: 

‍

Mini Facelift

‍

A mini facelift is most suited for those in their forties or with slight sagging. It makes smaller incisions, requires less downtime, and focuses on the lower face.

‍

Maintenance Options

• Fillers and neurotoxins can help to restore volume and smooth lines.
• Laser treatments help to improve texture and tighten skin.
• Regular use of medical-grade skincare can boost collagen and prevent further concerns.

‍

These can either delay the necessity for surgery or improve the outcome of one.

‍

How to Decide If It’s the Right Time for a Facelift

‍

Wondering if you’re ready? A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to find out. 

‍

Bliss makes this process simple and supported. You’ll meet with your personal Care Advisor, who helps you assess your goals and introduces you to top, board-certified facial surgeons. Create your profile to start your journey.