According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of facelift surgery is $11,395. However, this amount only includes the surgeon’s fee and does not account for factors like the type of facelift or location, which can significantly increase costs. RealSelf reports a broader price range from as low as $5,600 to as much as $48,000, with an average facelift cost of $17,400.
Knowing the price range and understanding the factors influencing the types of facelifts and costs are crucial steps before making a decision. In this article, we’ll delve into the elements that impact the final cost of your facelift, helping you make an informed choice.
What Factors Will Impact the Cost of My Facelift Procedure?
Several factors determine the final cost of a facelift. These include the complexity and type of the procedure, anesthesia fees, operating room expenses, and the surgeon’s expertise and location. Whether you opt to include additional procedures or factor in pre- and post-operative care costs can also significantly influence the total price tag.
1. The Complexity of the Procedure
The complexity of your facelift directly impacts the final cost. A more intricate procedure, such as a deep-plane facelift, typically requires more time and skill, increasing surgical fees. Simpler surgical techniques, like a mini-facelift, may cost less. The extent of correction needed also plays a significant role in determining the overall price.
2. Anesthesia Fees
Anesthesia ensures patient comfort during the procedure, and its cost depends on several factors. Anesthesiologist fees vary based on their expertise and the type of anesthesia used. More complex procedures or extended surgeries require longer administration times, driving up the total cost.
3. Surgical Facility Expenses
The facility where your facelift is performed significantly affects the total cost. High-quality surgical centers provide advanced equipment and a sterile environment to ensure optimal results and patient safety. These expenses cover not only the equipment but also the skilled staff and surgical facility maintenance, all of which contribute to the overall treatment cost.
4. Surgeon’s Expertise and Location
The expertise of your cosmetic surgeon is a significant factor in the cost of a facelift. Highly qualified plastic surgeons with proven track records often charge more for their skill and consistent results. Additionally, geographic location plays a role—facelifts performed in affluent areas or urban centers generally come with higher fees, reflecting local economic norms and demand for top-tier expertise.
5. The Facelift Consultation
The facelift consultation is a crucial first step in planning your procedure, and most practices will include a consultation fee as part of this stage. During this meeting, many surgeons will take the time to check your face and neck in detail, discussing your goals and expectations. An experienced surgeon can explain whether you are a good candidate, outline the possible techniques, and help you anticipate costs and recovery time. This personalized evaluation sets the foundation for a safe and satisfying outcome.
6. Post-Operative Care
Post-operative care is equally vital, as surgical recovery plays a major role in the final results of any facial plastic surgery. Patients should carefully plan their budget to account for follow-up visits, medications, and any supplies that aid healing. Surgeons emphasize this stage to minimize risks and reduce the chance of complications, ensuring that your results last as long as possible. Attentive post-surgical care is essential for protecting your investment and maintaining a natural, youthful appearance.
7. Additional Procedures
A rhytidectomy primarily focuses on the cheeks, lower face, and neck, but many patients choose to combine it with other procedures to enhance their results. Popular add-ons include brow lifts, eyelid surgery, neck lift, lip augmentation, laser resurfacing, and facial fat grafting. While each additional cosmetic procedure increases the overall cost, combining them can save on anesthesia and facility fees compared to scheduling them separately.
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The Different Types of Facelifts and Costs
We’ve already discussed the average cost of a facelift in general, but as mentioned earlier, different types of facelift procedures come with varying levels of surgical complexity and therefore different price ranges. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common types of facelifts:
Traditional Facelift Cost
Traditional facelift surgery is a comprehensive procedure that addresses sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and facial volume loss by lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissues. It provides significant, long-lasting facial rejuvenation but involves more extensive surgery and recovery. As we said before, costs range from $5,600 to as much as $48,000, with an average cost of $17,400, depending on the surgeon’s expertise and location.
SMAS Facelift Cost
The SMAS facelift targets the superficial muscular aponeurotic system, tightening deeper facial structures for a more natural and longer-lasting lift. It is more advanced than a mini facelift but less invasive than a deep plane facelift. Costs range from $11,000 to $30,000, with an average of $19,000, depending on the surgeon’s expertise and location.
Mid Facelift Cost
Also known as a cheek lift, a mid-facelift targets the middle portion of the face, rejuvenating the cheeks and under-eye area. Less invasive than a traditional full facelift, this procedure is ideal for patients with moderate signs of aging. Costs range from $7,000 to $14,000, with an average of $9,700, depending on complexity and surgeon expertise.
Deep Plane Facelift Cost
A deep plane facelift addresses deeper layers of facial tissue, offering dramatic and long-lasting results for significant signs of aging. More complex than traditional facelift procedures, it requires advanced surgical skills and longer operating times, which increase the cost. Prices range from $8,900 to $50,000, with an average of $22,600, depending on the surgeon and location.
Mini Facelift Cost
A mini facelift is a less invasive option that focuses on subtle rejuvenation of the lower face and jawline. It involves smaller incisions and shorter recovery times compared to a traditional facelift, making it ideal for patients with mild to moderate aging concerns. The mini facelift cost ranges from $4,100 to $18,500, with an average of $10,300.
Thread Lift Cost
A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure that uses temporary sutures to lift and tighten the skin, primarily in the mid-face or jawline. It is less complex than a traditional facelift, offering quicker recovery times and lower costs. Prices range from $550 to $4,400, with an average of $2,000, making it an affordable option for subtle improvements.
Liquid Facelift Cost
A liquid facelift is a non-surgical procedure that uses dermal fillers and neuromodulators to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. While results are temporary compared to surgical facelifts, it requires no downtime. Costs range from $1,800 to $4,000, with an average of $3,200, depending on the type and amount of injectables used.
Facelift Before and After Photos
* Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
What About Financing Options for My Facelift Surgery?
Since a facelift is considered an elective cosmetic surgery, health insurance rarely covers it. Patients typically pay out of pocket unless the procedure is part of reconstructive treatment, which may allow for partial coverage. Fortunately, most practices offer monthly payment plans or accept financing options.
The CareCredit credit card is a widely accepted choice for financing both surgical and nonsurgical procedures. During your consultation, be sure to ask which financing options your chosen practice recommends.
So, Is a Facelift Worth the Price?
The vast majority of patients feel that the price of a facelift is justified. According to RealSelf, the procedure has a 92% Worth It Rating, with many patients enjoying natural-looking results that significantly boost their confidence and make them look years younger.
However, the value of a facelift can depend on your unique case. For example, if you only have minor sagging, a mini facelift or thread lift may offer the best balance of results and affordability. Choosing the right procedure ensures you get your money’s worth.
To make the best decision for your needs, it’s essential to consult a skilled facial plastic surgeon. Their expertise can help you determine the most suitable option and provide a clearer picture of what to expect.
Facelift Before and After Photos
* Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Why Choosing the Best Facelift Surgeon Matters
Choosing the best plastic surgeon for your facelift is essential. Since a facelift is a significant financial investment, ensuring optimal results and minimizing the risk of needing a revision is crucial. A skilled surgeon can help you achieve natural, long-lasting results, making your investment worthwhile.
At Aesthetic Surgical Images, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional care in Omaha. Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons has decades of experience performing all types of facelifts and other facial procedures. Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.