Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Facial Rejuvenation?
A plastic surgeon performs facelift surgery, and a dermatologist (a skin doctor) can talk with you about non-surgical options. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Facial rejuvenation includes treatments that can diminish the signs of aging on the face. The surgical choice is a facelift.
A facelift improves sagging, drooping, and wrinkled skin of the face and neck.
Skin-firming creams and laser resurfacing are non-surgical options. So are chemical peels and microneedling. Non-surgical treatments cannot achieve the same results as a facelift.
Why a doctor might recommend it
A facelift can improve sagging in the middle of the face, deep creases below the lower eyelids, and loose skin under the chin and jaw. People have a facelift when they are not satisfied with the signs of aging on their face but are in otherwise good health.
How to prepare
Before surgery, you will have a consultation. It includes a history, a physical exam, and a psychological evaluation.
Common preparation steps include the following.
- Tell your surgeon about all medicines, supplements, and herbs you take.
- If you smoke, cut back or quit, because smoking can slow healing and raise the risk for blood clots.
- In the week before surgery, your surgeon may ask you to pause blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and vitamin E.
- Many prescription medicines are also blood thinners. Ask your surgeon which medicines to take on the day of surgery.
What happens during it
You will be sleepy and pain-free with conscious sedation, or deeply asleep with general anesthesia. The plastic surgeon makes cuts that begin above the hairline at the temples, go behind the earlobe, and reach the lower scalp.
The surgeon may do the following.
- Remove and lift some of the fat and muscle under the skin.
- Remove or move loose skin.
Recovery
Your head will be wrapped loosely in bandages to reduce bruising and swelling.
Your face may look pale, bruised, and puffy, but in 4 to 6 weeks it will look normal. Some numbness of the face and ears can last for up to several months.
You should avoid smoking, secondhand smoke, straining, bending, and lifting right after surgery. Most scars are hidden in the hairline or the natural lines of the face and will fade over time. Your surgeon will probably advise you to limit your sun exposure.
Risks and side effects
Surgery can cause reactions to medicines, bleeding, blood clots, and infection.
Risks of facelift surgery include the following.
- A pocket of blood under the skin, called a hematoma, that may need to be drained surgically.
- Damage to the nerves that control the muscles of the face, which is usually temporary but may be permanent.
Poor cosmetic results may need more surgery. Examples are scarring, an uneven face, and changes in skin color.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, breathing problems such as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, or fainting. Also call if you have chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, or if you cough up or vomit blood.
Who performs it
A plastic surgeon performs a facelift. A board-certified dermatologist can tell you what can safely ease the signs of aging that bother you.
Common questions
Can a non-surgical treatment replace a facelift?
No. Non-surgical treatments cannot achieve the same results as a facelift. They may help delay the time when a facelift becomes appropriate and complement the results of surgery.
Does a facelift stop aging?
No, a facelift does not change your fundamental appearance and cannot stop the aging process.
How long does it take to heal after a facelift?
It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for your face to look normal. You will have swelling, bruising, skin discoloration, tenderness, and numbness for 10 to 14 days or longer after the surgery.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Facelift
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - What is a Facelift?
- American Academy of Dermatology - Younger-looking skin
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
