Facelift in NYC

Facelift surgery is a signature procedure of Dr. Halaas, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in NYC. With her expertise, she can help revitalize your appearance by lifting and tightening the skin, enhancing facial contours, and smoothing deep lines. Whether you're seeking to reverse the effects of aging, restore youthful definition, or achieve a natural, refreshed look, Dr. Halaas can tailor a facelift to meet your unique aesthetic goals.

PATIENT FACELIFT STORY

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of aging on the face and neck. By tightening sagging skin, lifting facial muscles, and smoothing deep wrinkles, a facelift can restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This procedure enhances facial contours, reduces jowls, and rejuvenates the overall look, helping you regain confidence with natural-looking, long-lasting results.

What Can a Facelift Do for Me?

A facelift is more than a cosmetic procedure; it’s a powerful way to restore confidence and reveal a refreshed, younger-looking version of yourself. The result? A naturally youthful look that can take up to 10 years off your appearance, all while preserving your unique expression and beauty. With just one surgery, you can achieve:

Overall facial rejuvenation
Firmer, tighter skin
Lifted, more contoured facial features
Smoother wrinkles and deep creases
A sculpted jawline and defined neckline
Reduction or elimination of jowls and double chin

Before & After Facelift in NYC

Facelift

This woman wanted a natural result from her facelift to correct the effects of aging and gravity without looking “too pulled”.

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Facelift

Facelifts can improve the jowls and marionette lines that make us look older and angry. The results look natural and refreshed.

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Facelift

A Facelift can smooth out the jawline, take years off the face & neck and leave the patient looking natural & refreshed.

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Before & After Facelift in Westchester, New York

Who is a candidate for a facelift?

Candidates for a facelift are usually men or women who would like to achieve a dramatically more youthful appearance. The typical age for a facelift ranges between 40 and 60 years, although individuals who are younger or older may also be good candidates. Candidates for a facelift in Westchester should meet the following requirements:

Are generally in good health
Have no serious medical conditions

Do not smoke
Are not taking blood thinners or can safely stop taking blood thinners before surgery
Have sagging skin, prominent jowls, loss of facial volume, and sunken areas
Are realistic about what this procedure can achieve

Facelift Videos

Facelift Surgery FAQ

Facelift with Upper Blepharoplasty & Brow Lift under general anesthesia | Dr. Yael Halaas

Before & After: Patient Underwent a Rhinoplasty, Chin Implant, Brow Lift, and Upper Blepharoplasty

Patient Testimonial: Mini Facelift and Necklift by Dr. Halaas

Facelift Before and 2 months after surgery

Patient Facelift Story

Fat Transfer and Facelift

Schedule A Consultation

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Why choose Dr. Halaas?

After two decades of surgical experience, Dr. Halaas has conducted over 1200 "Local Lifts" (facelifts under local anesthesia), with the highest satisfaction and lowest complication rate on the East Coast. Dr. Yael Halaas is highly experienced in facelifts of all types, combining her artistic background with the latest surgical techniques.

As a double board-certified plastic surgeon in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, she is the number one female facial plastic surgeon on the East Coast. Her authority and expertise in the field of facial plastic surgery are the reasons she is a trusted opinion leader and surgeon when it comes to facelifts and other surgical procedures.

Educated at prestigious institutions such as Columbia University and Cornell University, Dr. Halaas blends elite training with a warm, honest, and compassionate approach that patients deeply value. Her care goes beyond technical excellence; patients consistently feel seen, heard, and confident in her hands.

Types of facelifts

Dr. Halaas performs different types of facelifts in NYC to achieve your aesthetic needs and goals.

Mini Facelift

This less invasive facelift is performed under local anesthesia and targets more precise areas, requiring smaller incisions. Small “S” shaped incisions are made near the hairline by the ears. Using these incisions, the mid and lower areas of the face (the cheeks and jawline) are lifted and sculpted. There is less surgical trauma with a mini facelift, resulting in a shorter recovery period. Because it has a shorter procedure time and faster recovery, the mini facelift is often called by the nickname, “the weekend lift.”

Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift is performed with general anesthesia and addresses the underlying structure of the skin–muscle and connective tissue called the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). This network of tissue lies over the facial muscles, forming the framework and structure of the face. Dr. Halaas will make incisions around the ear, then use these to tighten and lift the SMAS, working in a wider range of tissue than other facelifts to achieve more dramatic improvements. The four ligaments that anchor the facial muscles downward are released to beautifully lift the facial features.

SMAS

The SMAS facelift is similar to a deep plane facelift. It addresses and tightens the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). This network of muscle and connective tissue lies beneath the skin and above the facial muscles. Incisions will be made around the ear and used to lift, tighten and address the SMAS, focusing on the muscles in the jaw area that have loosened and caused sagging. Excess skin and fat are removed to achieve a more youthful appearance.

Local Lift

Dr. Halaas created the Local Lift®, a facelift procedure less traumatic than a full facelift that achieves excellent results. The Local Lift has fewer risks and is customized for each patient. This procedure can lift sagging cheeks, reduce lines and wrinkles, and tighten the neck muscles.

Real Patient Reviews

I really had a great time with Dr. Halaas. Her personnel is above and beyond all the time. I have to say that it was my first time doing a treatment for my face, my wife has been her patient for many years and I have been admiring her magic on my wife. Dr.Halaas you now have me as a faithful patient.

Dr. Yael Halaas is 1 of the top surgeons in NY with so many years of experience.The office is beautiful and I often ran into celebrities in waiting room which is not surprising knowing Dr Halaas quality of work. Very knowledgeable staff, quick appointment & inquiries response. I definitely recommend Dr. Halaas to friends and families.

I recently underwent two procedures with Dr. Yael Halaas, and I am extremely pleased with the results. Dr. Halaas' attention to detail and dedication to understanding my needs were evident throughout the entire process. The outcomes not only met but exceeded my expectations, leaving me truly satisfied.

Preparing for surgery

Before your facelift in NYC, Dr. Halaas will provide instructions to follow to help prepare you. This will include a list of medications and supplements to avoid, such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs that thin the blood.

Arrange in advance to have a friend or family member drive you home after your procedure who can help you that night and the following day.

During the procedure

All procedures are performed by Dr. Halaas in her AAAASF-accredited surgical facility in NYC. During your procedure, you will have either local anesthesia, the most common anesthesia required with Dr. Halaas for facelifts, or general anesthesia. Based on the type of facelift you’re having, she will make incisions near the hairline around the ears, and use these incisions to tighten and reposition the underlying muscles, lifting the features and trimming away excess skin. Once the lift is complete, she will close the incisions carefully to keep scarring at an absolute minimum.

What Procedures Can Be Combined With a Facelift?

Combining procedures with a facelift can enhance overall facial rejuvenation by addressing multiple areas simultaneously. Dr. Halaas can recommend the following surgical and non-surgical options to complement a facelift:

Surgical Procedures:

Neck Lift: Addresses sagging skin and muscle bands in the neck, creating a smooth, cohesive appearance from the face to the neckline.
Brow Lift: Elevates droopy eyebrows and smooths forehead lines, refreshing the upper face.
Chin Augmentation: Enhances facial balance by improving the projection and definition of the chin.
Fat Transfer: Restores volume to areas such as the cheeks or under-eye regions, enhancing the youthful contours achieved by a facelift.

Non-Surgical Enhancements:

Dermal Fillers: Restore volume to the mid-face, nasolabial folds, or lips, enhancing the youthful look achieved by a facelift.
BOTOX: Relaxes dynamic wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes, adding a finishing touch to facelift results.
Ultherapy: Utilizes ultrasound technology to lift and tighten the skin, complementing the surgical lift.
Morpheus8: Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, improving skin quality and elasticity.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing: Addresses deeper wrinkles and skin irregularities, promoting smoother and more youthful skin.
Non-Surgical Chin Augmentation: Enhances chin definition using non-surgical techniques, balancing facial proportions.
Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Refines the nose's appearance without surgery, harmonizing facial features.
Nefertiti Lift: A non-surgical procedure that defines the jawline and neck using injectables.

Facelift Recovery & Aftercare

Dr. Halaas puts an emphasis on safety while in surgery, and provides detailed post-op instructions in order to quicken the recovery time for her patients.

After your procedure is complete, Dr. Halaas will provide you with a light face wrap that needs to be worn for a week. You will be able to return home with a friend or family member. Dr. Halaas will give you a homeopathic prescription to reduce swelling and bruising, which will last several days to a week. She will see you the next day to check on your healing. The wrap can be taken off, and most patients can return to light work within 1-2 weeks. All stitches will be removed within 10-14 days. Wait for 4-6 weeks before you return to vigorous activity.

Facelift scars are discreetly placed in the hairline and around the ears. They generally heal within six months, fading from pink to a pale line, with full fading occurring over 1–2 years.

Additional Support Throughout Healing

Cold compresses and gentle lymphatic massage (if advised) may help reduce swelling more quickly.
Many patients notice that tightness and numbness in the face may linger for several weeks, this is normal and gradually fades.
Follow-up visits are scheduled at key intervals to ensure optimal healing and provide reassurance throughout the process.
Avoiding alcohol, salt, and smoking during recovery can help reduce fluid retention and improve surgical results.
Sleeping with your head elevated for the first 1–2 weeks helps minimize bruising and swelling.

Dr. Halaas and her team are known for their hands-on care, making sure every patient feels supported and monitored throughout their facelift recovery journey.

Facelift Cost

The starting cost range for a facelift in NYC is $45,000 to $75,000+. The complexity of the surgery and how long it may take can influence the total cost. If you need a facelift without a neck lift, this can also influence the price. When considering cosmetic surgery pricing, it's essential to recognize that the final cost is tailored to meet each patient's unique needs. The final cost of the procedure will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Halaas. This personalized approach ensures transparency and clarity regarding the total investment required for your aesthetic goals. We aim to empower you to make informed decisions about your cosmetic journey by providing a detailed breakdown of costs. Call our office for more details and schedule a consultation for a more personalized quote just for you.

Facelift Blog Articles

What Are the Most Important Questions to Ask Your Surgeon During a Facelift Consultation?

Facelift FAQs

What areas are targeted with a facelift?

A traditional facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, addresses signs of aging in the bottom two-thirds of the face, including the cheeks, jawline, and neck. Many patients also choose to combine a facelift with a neck lift or eyelid surgery to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Will my facelift look natural?

Yes. When performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Halaas, your facelift results can look incredibly natural and youthful. Dr. Halaas specializes in natural-looking facelift outcomes by using refined techniques that avoid the overly tight or “pulled” appearance.

Is facelift surgery painful?

Most patients describe discomfort after facelift surgery as mild to moderate, similar to a deep bruised sensation. This can be managed effectively with prescribed pain medication and proper post-operative care. Discomfort typically subsides within the first few days.

How long does bruising last?

After a deep plane facelift or SMAS facelift, bruising is common and usually lasts up to two weeks. It will gradually fade and shift in color before resolving over the next several weeks. Cold compresses and following aftercare instructions can help speed healing.

Where will my facelift be performed?

Dr. Halaas performs her procedures in her private, state-of-the-art, AAAASF accredited facility.

What is the length of the procedure?

The duration of facelift surgery depends on the technique and complexity of the case. Most deep plane or SMAS facelifts take between 2 to 5 hours. Combining your facelift with other procedures like a brow lift may extend the total surgery time.

What are the alternatives to a facelift?

Non-surgical alternatives include injectable combinations such as Botox, dermal fillers and Kybella, and/or laser and radiofrequency treatments.

How long do the results of a facelift last?

The results of a surgical facelift can last approximately 10 years or longer, depending on factors like skin quality, lifestyle, and the specific technique used. A deep plane facelift, in particular, tends to offer longer-lasting, more structural rejuvenation.

Are there any risks or complications from a facelift?

Facelifts carry the same risks and complications as other surgeries, including bleeding, pain, swelling, infection, scarring, nerve injury, and others. Dr. Halaas takes extensive precautions to minimize these risks and ensures patient safety with every procedure.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Dr. Halaas’ techniques usually do not require full anesthesia. Instead, patients take a Valium and have local anesthesia with additional sedation as needed. Twilight and general anesthesia are also available from our board-certified anesthesiologists.

Will I look pulled back after a facelift?

Absolutely not. Dr. Halaas prioritizes a refreshed, natural appearance. Her techniques avoid the 'windblown' look by repositioning deeper tissues and lifting strategically for harmonious, age-defying results.

Can I get another facelift after time goes by?

Yes. As the aging process continues, many patients choose to have a second facelift years after their initial procedure to maintain youthful contours. Dr. Halaas tailors each secondary facelift to ensure natural refinement and structural integrity.

When can I return to normal activities after my facelift?

Recovery times can vary, but most patients can expect to return to light activities within 7 to 10 days post-surgery. Swelling and bruising typically subside within two weeks, with residual effects diminishing over the following weeks. Dr. Halaas provides detailed postoperative care instructions and support to facilitate a smooth and comfortable recovery process.

Written by Dr. Halaas