Reviewed By: Dr. John P. Fezza
Getting a facelift can be a big decision, and finding the best facelift surgeon is just as important as the procedure itself. Your choice of surgeon can truly transform your appearance, so it’s crucial to choose wisely among the myriads of options available. Understanding what sets apart an exceptional surgeon can be the game-changer in your quest for a youthful and revitalized appearance.
Facelifts remain one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, with 234,374 procedures performed in the U.S. in 2020 alone. With the demand for cosmetic enhancements growing, choosing the right surgeon becomes even more critical. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider when selecting a facelift surgeon —from credentials and experience to patient reviews and personal comfort. Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to schedule consultations, this information will help you make a confident decision.
Consider Their Experience in Facelift Surgery
Not all plastic surgeons specialize in facelifts. Some may focus on other procedures like breast augmentation or body contouring. You want a surgeon with extensive experience specifically in facelift procedures.
Questions to ask:
- How many facelifts have you performed?
- How long have you been performing this procedure?
- Do you specialize in facial plastic surgery?
A surgeon who regularly performs facelifts is more likely to be familiar with different techniques and approaches, which can lead to better results. It was reported a 40% increase in both surgical and non-surgical facial plastic surgery treatments in 2021, showing a growing trend of people seeking these procedures. Choosing a surgeon with a deep focus on facial aesthetics ensures you get the best possible care.
Review Before and After Photos
One of the best ways to assess a surgeon’s skill is by looking at before and after photos of their previous patients. These images give you a realistic idea of what to expect and help determine if the surgeon’s aesthetic style matches your goals.
Things to look for:
- Do the results look natural?
- Are there any signs of over-tightening?
- Do patients of different ages and skin types show good outcomes?
If a surgeon lacks a portfolio or hesitates to share photos, consider it a red flag. According to the Plastic Surgery Statistics report, the South Atlantic region accounted for 30% of all facelifts performed in 2020—just be sure to review their work before making your decision.
Read Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews and patient testimonials provide insight into other people’s experiences with the surgeon. While one or two negative reviews shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, consistent complaints about poor results, lack of communication, or long recovery times should be considered carefully.
Look for reviews on:
- Healthgrades
- The surgeon’s website
Pay attention to comments about bedside manner, professionalism, and overall satisfaction with the results. With 1.4 million facial procedures performed in 2021, there’s no shortage of patient experiences to learn from.
Schedule a Consultation
A consultation is your chance to meet the surgeon, ask questions, and get a feel for their approach. It’s also an opportunity to see how comfortable you feel with them. The best facelift surgeons will take the time to understand your goals, explain the procedure in detail, and set realistic expectations.
Questions to ask:
- Is a deep plane facelift appropriate for me?
- What are the risks and potential complications?
- What is the expected recovery time?
- What type of anesthesia will be used?
- Can I see more before and after photos of patients with similar facial features?
A great surgeon will answer all your questions thoroughly and honestly. If you feel rushed or pressured, it may be best to look elsewhere.
Evaluate the Facility and Surgical Team
The setting where your procedure will take place is just as important as the surgeon’s skill. The surgical facility should be fully accredited by organizations such as the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) or the Joint Commission. This ensures that the operating environment meets strict safety and hygiene standards.
Additionally, ask about the support staff. A well-trained surgical team, including anesthesiologists and nurses, is critical in ensuring a smooth procedure and recovery.
Ask About Facelift Techniques
Facelift techniques have advanced significantly, and a good surgeon should be well-versed in modern methods that minimize downtime and maximize results. Some of the most common facelift techniques include:
- Deep Plane Facelift – A technique that lifts deeper layers for a more natural and long-lasting outcome.
- SMAS Facelift – Targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) for more effective lifting.
The right technique for you will depend on your facial structure, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals. Since over 34.9 million aesthetic procedures were performed worldwide in 2023, facelift techniques continue to evolve, giving patients better options for achieving natural, youthful results.
Understand the Recovery Process
Recovery time varies depending on the facelift technique used and individual healing factors. A good surgeon will give you a clear post-surgery recovery plan, including:
- How long swelling and bruising will last
- When you can return to normal activities
- What restrictions you need to follow
- How to care for your incisions
Knowing what to expect can help you plan accordingly and ensure a smooth recovery.
Why Choose Dr.Fezza for Your Facelift?
Dr. Fezza is a highly respected expert in facial plastic surgery. He is a board-certified surgeon who has performed thousands of facelifts and is a recognized leader in facial aesthetics. Master Injectors are medical professionals with intensive training and knowledge of facial anatomy, with the ability to perform facial analysis.
Dr. Fezza is well known for his precision, experience, and natural-looking results. His mastery in facelift procedures, ensures patients receive the highest standard of care, from the initial consultation to post-surgery follow-ups.
At Facelifts by Fezza, patients receive personalized treatment plans designed to achieve subtle, youthful results without an overdone look. With a focus on patient goals, satisfaction, and safety, Dr. Fezza and his team are dedicated to delivering exceptional outcomes in a professional and comfortable setting. Look and feel your best with Facelifts by Fezza!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best facelift surgeon is one of the most important steps in your cosmetic journey. Researching, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts can help you find a surgeon who aligns with your goals.
If you’re considering a facelift, Facelifts by Fezza is here to help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. John P. Fezza to learn more about your options and take the first step toward a refreshed, confident you.
About Center For Sight
Center For Sight provides ophthalmology, optometry, dermatology and cosmetic surgery services to patients in Southwest Florida. The practice offers patients convenient access to nationally renowned surgeons, highly-trained, compassionate staff members and cutting-edge technology. Center For Sight’s mission is to “bring clear vision to life” through trusting relationships and the unending pursuit of excellence in eye care. For additional information and locations, visit CenterForSight.net.
About Center For Sight Foundation
The Center For Sight Foundation is a donor-advised fund maintained and operated by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, a section 501(c)(3) organization. The fund is composed of contributions made by individual donors. David W. Shoemaker, M.D., established the Center For Sight Foundation to support the annual Mission Cataract program, which restores vision at no cost for people living at the poverty level suffering vision loss due to cataracts. For more information, visit CFSFoundation.org.
