Facelift surgery is one of the most popular and effective facial rejuvenation procedures, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood. Media and social networks often spread ideas about the procedure and its outcomes that do not align with reality. Statements such as leaving a face expressionless, requiring continuous repetition to maintain results, or being a highly invasive intervention are not true. Therefore, in this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths and reveal the truths behind facelift surgery, providing a clear and objective insight into this facial rejuvenation procedure.
While it is true that many older individuals, beyond their 60s or 70s, undergo facelift surgery to combat visible signs of aging, this facial surgery can also benefit younger individuals, between their 40s and 50s, who wish to prevent or correct early signs of aging. In these cases, facelifts are often less invasive and yield optimal results, as the skin retains good elasticity and quality.
While it is natural to feel some discomfort and swelling after any surgical procedure, these are highly manageable if the medical team’s instructions are followed. Most patients who undergo facelift surgery describe discomfort and tightness in the area behind the ears, where the skin tension is adjusted. These discomforts are always easily controllable with common pain relievers.
This is a widespread myth, according to which all people who undergo facelift surgery lose expressiveness or have the same gestures because the skin is too stretched. This is not true; facelift surgery performed by a skilled and experienced facial surgeon respects the patient’s expressiveness and natural features. The main goal of facelift surgery is to naturally rejuvenate the face, revitalizing it. That is, improving sagging, wrinkles, and skin laxity on the face and neck, aiming for a more vital and active appearance without altering expression. To achieve this, it repositions facial tissues as they were when the patient was younger, achieving results that do not alter the patient’s expressiveness.
Although facelift surgery can reverse visible signs of aging, it cannot stop the aging process itself. Over time, the skin will continue to age, but always from a rejuvenated appearance. That is, if at 50 years old we undergo facelift surgery, 15 years later the face will have aged, but possibly our appearance will be more like that of a 55-year-old than a 65-year-old.
It is true that early facelifts, over half a century ago, left more noticeable scars due to more invasive techniques used at that time. However, nowadays, facial surgeons employ more sophisticated techniques with smaller incisions placed strategically to minimize scars. They are usually located in discreet areas, such as the hairline, behind the ears, or in natural skin folds, where they are less visible. Additionally, techniques such as endoscopic facelifts require fewer incisions, which are millimeter-sized and strategically made to be imperceptible to the eye.
Facelift surgery is a safe and effective procedure to rejuvenate facial appearance and regain self-confidence. By debunking misconceptions and understanding the truths behind the procedure, you can make an informed decision about whether facelift surgery is right for you.
