Facelift

Restore a crisp jawline, smoother neck, and naturally lifted cheeks—Dr. Slamin’s modern facelift in Northern Virginia and DC prioritizes elegance over exaggeration.

Overview

A facelift addresses lower-face jowling, blunted jawline, and neck laxity by repositioning the deeper support layer (SMAS/platysma) rather than simply tightening skin. Dr. Slamin emphasizes deep-plane and SMAS techniques tailored to your anatomy to elevate descended cheek pads, sharpen the mandibular border, and smooth the neck—without a pulled look. The vector of lift, tension balance, and meticulous incision placement preserve a natural hairline and sideburn in women and maintain masculine shape in men.

Surgical Notes

  • Downtime: ~10–14 days for social recovery; swelling refines over several weeks
  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia (occasionally sedation for limited procedures)
  • Setting: Accredited surgery center
  • Incisions/Scars: Discreetly around the ear, within the temporal hairline; small submental incision beneath the chin.
  • Results Timeline: Noticeable improvement immediately; refined, camera-ready definition by 6–12 weeks; maturation continues for months
  • Longevity: Often 8–12 years or more, while aging continues naturally

Goals of Facelift

  • Lift sagging cheeks and midface for restored volume and contour 
  • Smooth nasolabial folds and marionette lines for a softer expression 
  • Redefine the jawline and neck for sharper, more youthful definition 
  • Reposition deeper tissues for natural, enduring support 
  • Preserve your individual features for authentic, harmonious results

Candidates for a Facelift

  • Moderate sagging in the cheeks, jowls, or lower face 
  • Seeking subtle, natural rejuvenation without an “overdone” look 
  • In good health with realistic expectations 
  • Nonsmoker or committed to an optimized perioperative protocol

Dr. Slamin’s Facelift Approach

Consultation & Planning

We start with a comprehensive facial analysis using photos and 3D imaging to visualize outcomes, discussing your concerns and lifestyle. Together, we craft a personalized plan that may include complementary eyelid rejuvination or volume restoration.

Technical Aspects

  • Deep-Plane Technique: Targets SMAS and deeper layers for natural lift and longevity.
  • Minimal Skin Undermining: Preserves blood supply for faster healing. 
  • Volume Integration: Layered fat repositioning or grafting where needed. 
  • Customized Incisions: Along the hairline and ear contours for discretion. We emphasize conservative elevation to avoid tightness, focusing on harmony.

Day of Procedure

We will review the plan, do gentle skin markings, and meet your anesthesia team. Most facelifts take 4–5 hours. Soft dressings and a supportive garment are placed; you return home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions.

Recovery Timeline

Days
1–3
Rest, head elevation; drains removed; tightness/fullness common
~1
Week
Suture removal begins; bruising fades
2
Weeks
Social downtime eases; light work resumes
4–6
Weeks
Gradual return to exercise with clearance
6–12
Months
Subtle refinement for final glow

Pain & Comfort

Most describe tightness rather than pain; medications keep it minimal and manageable.

Frequently Asked Question