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    Facelift in Pittsburgh, PA

    We’ve all glanced in the mirror and noticed how laugh lines gradually deepen into wrinkles, and how a once-defined jawline can soften into jowls.

    While aging is a natural part of life, factors like stress, thinning skin, smoking, sun exposure, loss of facial fat, gravity, and genetics can accelerate this process. The great news is that a facelift—also known as a face and neck rhytidectomy—at the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery can help you take back control, restoring youthful contours and turning back the clock on visible signs of aging.

    Facelift Pittsburgh

    Turn Back Time — Naturally

    What is a Facelift?

    A facelift is more than just a skin-tightening procedure—it’s a thoughtful restoration of your facial foundation. At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we use modern deep plane facelift techniques that lift and reposition the underlying SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer rather than relying on surface tension alone. By releasing and lifting these deeper structures, we’re able to: 

    • Define the jawline and reduce jowls 
    • Soften deep folds around the nose and mouth 
    • Restore youthful volume and harmony to the midface 
    • Tighten laxity in the neck and under the chin 

    The result is a refreshed, natural look that preserves your facial identity—never pulled or overdone.

    Deep Understanding of Facial Structure.

    Results That Look Like You

    Types of Facelifts

    We offer a variety of facelift approaches to suit different needs, from full face and neck lifts to limited-incision techniques. Regardless of the extent, our guiding principle is the same: natural, long-lasting results that reflect your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Unlike surgeons who rely on outdated or shortcut techniques (like skin-only lifts or thread pulls), our procedures focus on deep tissue repositioning. This leads to smoother contours, greater longevity, and far less tension on the skin itself—minimizing scarring and maximizing results. To accomplish this your surgeon may recommend one of the following types of facelifts:

    Traditional Facelift

    A typical face and neck rhytidectomy addresses moderate to significant signs of aging, and is best for individuals in their late 40s to 60s. It addresses the SMAS layer as well as the platysma muscle, providing comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face and neck.

    Extended Facelift

    An extended rhytidectomy includes the benefits of a traditional facelift while also targeting the upper cheek area and temples. This approach also removes a larger amount of excess skin of the neck and is more common in patients in their mid-60s onwards.

    Midface Facelift

    A midface lift, also known as a limited, or mini rhytidectomy, is a focused procedure that primarily targets the cheek descent and fold formation in early signs of aging. It is more common for patients in their 40s or for patients who want to refresh a previous facelift.

    Secondary Facelift

    A secondary rhytidectomy is a customized procedure for patients who have had a previous face and necklift. These are customized based on the previous surgical approach and require careful surgical planning.

    Additional Facial Rejuvenation Options

    In addition to facelifts, we offer several complementary procedures to enhance your overall results:

    Skin Resurfacing

    Skin resurfacing techniques such as Erbium or CO2 laser or TCA peels can remove built-up layers of old skin, smoothing ultra-fine lines and improving skin texture for a more youthful appearance.

    Fat Transfer

    Fat transfer involves harvesting fat from other areas of your body through gentle liposuction and injecting it into areas of the face that have lost volume. This technique can rejuvenate and fill deflated cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, and thin lips.

    Each facelift is individually tailored to match your goals and facial anatomy. Whether you’re looking to refine your jawline, smooth deep wrinkles, restore volume, or tighten lax skin, our approach is designed to sculpt a natural, refreshed appearance—not an artificial one. A well-executed facelift remains the most effective and long-lasting way to address sagging in the neck and jowls. At our Pittsburgh practice, we focus on techniques that minimize visible scarring while maximizing aesthetic results. If you’re considering a facelift, we welcome you to contact us to learn more and schedule a personalized consultation.

    Rejuvenate Your Appearance

    Why Consider a Facelift?

    A More Youthful Look

    During a facelift, our Pittsburgh plastic surgeons can reduce deep creases around the nose, mouth, and chin to address the most obvious signs of aging.

    Improved Facial Contours

    The procedure enhances the definition of facial contours, especially around the jawline and cheeks, resulting in a more sculpted and balanced appearance.

    Increased Self-Confidence

    Restoring your youthful features can make you look healthier and more rested, allowing you to feel confident in your appearance.

    Tighten Sagging Skin

    By removing excess skin and tightening the underlying tissues, a facelift addresses sagging skin, particularly in the lower face and neck, leading to a firmer, more toned look.

    Facelifts Have a High Rate
    of Patient Satisfaction

    Facelift Pittsburgh

    *According to the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

    Facelift Pittsburgh

    Explore Your Facelift Candidacy

    Your Facelift Consultation

    During an initial consultation for a facelift , Pittsburgh Center plastic surgeons can determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure based on your medical history, skin condition, and expectations. At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we proudly offer advanced treatments in a safe and comfortable environment. From our state-of-the-art office to our relaxing Rejuvenation Center, you can rest assured you are in good hands with our team.

    See What a Facelift Can Do

    The Facelift Procedure Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery

    The first step is administering anesthesia. We offer advanced local anesthesia with light sedation to reduce anxiety. Those who prefer general anesthesia can be treated in an ambulatory surgery center.

    Your Facelift Procedure

    Your  Pittsburgh facelift surgeon will then create incisions in front and behind your ears and along the hairline. Next, your surgeon will tighten the underlying tissue by lifting and moving the underlying tissue directly, then remove excess skin and precisely suture close all the incisions under slight tension. Some patients also undergo liposuction to eliminate stubborn fat underneath the chin. A small suction drain exits behind the left ear, and an elastic head wrap is placed. Direct icing and head elevation are required for a week. Your treatment process may differ if you choose a midface instead of the full procedure.

    Turn Back the Clock

    Facelift Results

    Typically, patients are cleared for full activity after about four to six weeks. While you may notice a dramatic difference in your appearance soon after surgery, it takes up to six months to see the final results of a facelift. Be patient with your results and continue following your post-op instructions as directed. By the end of your recovery, you could enjoy a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

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    Recovering After a Facelift

    Facelift Recovery and Aftercare

    What to Expect

    Patients can generally expect a full recovery within three to four weeks after surgery, provided that they follow their post-surgical instructions precisely. The final result may take more than six months. We will tell you what to expect during your  facelift recovery and provide tips to follow at your pre-surgical appointments. Following these guidelines can minimize your risk of infection and help you achieve satisfying results.

    First Day of Recovery

    Like many other facial cosmetic surgeries, facelifts are considered outpatient procedures, so you will be able to return home the same day. Due to the nature of the procedure and the anesthesia involved, it is imperative that you have a friend or family member drive you home. As the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some soreness, fatigue, and facial tightness. Resting is critical during this time. We also recommend taking pain or anti-nausea medications to minimize any discomfort. Having a loved one stay with you to assist you for the first few days is also beneficial.

    Weeks One and Two of Recovery

    The first week of recovery will be the hardest. Commonly, patients experience the feeling of tightness in their neck and face, swelling, soreness, bruising, and occasionally continued fatigue. Resting with your head elevated, taking your medications, and applying cold compresses can help during this time. By week two, these side effects generally begin to subside. Approximately seven to ten days after surgery, any sutures will be removed, and our clinicians will monitor the incisions for any signs of infection. As soon as you feel up to it, we encourage light walking to increase blood flow and promote healing. However, it is imperative that you avoid overdoing physical activity, as it could hinder recovery.

    Weeks Three and Four of Recovery

    Most patients can return to work during week three of their facelift recovery if their jobs do not require strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or bending over. By this time, energy levels will increase, bruising will be minimal or easily concealed with makeup, and you may feel more comfortable going out in public. Although normal activity can be resumed, and you may feel well enough to resume exercise and other physical activity, you should not resume your regular exercise routine for at least six weeks.

    Advanced Local Anesthesia (ALA) at The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery

    The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery is at the forefront of advanced facelift techniques that prioritize patient comfort, safety, and natural results. Our skilled team has extensive experience performing facelifts under cutting-edge local anesthesia, allowing for faster recovery and minimal downtime. By combining local anesthetic methods with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, we can effectively address facial aging with less disruption to your daily routine. This approach helps patients achieve a smoother jawline, tightened neck, and rejuvenated facial contours without the prolonged recovery often associated with traditional facelift surgery.

    FaceliftFrequently Asked Questions

    Why Choose The Pittsburgh Center of Plastic Surgery?

    The Pittsburgh Center plastic surgeons have honed their unique deep plane surgical techniques for many years. They offer advanced surgical offerings only found with specialty-trained facial surgeons, and they can carefully tailor your facelift to suit your specific needs.

    How much does a facelift cost?

    At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, focused facelifts begin at around $10,000. More advanced extended facelifts cost, on average, $18,000. Additional procedures, such as fat grafting, skin resurfacing, or other combinations, have additional costs. Patients are also responsible for operating room and anesthetic costs associated with where they choose to have their surgery, which can be higher at different Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASC) or Hospitals. Health insurance rarely covers the price of a cosmetic procedure like a facelift. However, the Pittsburgh Center partners with CareCredit® and Cherry® for financing options that offer flexible payment plans with no credit check.

    What are tips to maximize my recovery?

    In order to experience a quick and comfortable recovery, it is extremely important to:

    • Listen to your surgeon, abide by your post-operative instructions, and attend your follow-up appointments as directed.
    • Avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
    • Keep your head elevated when resting—and at night— to reduce swelling and the severity of bruising.
    • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
    • Avoid washing your hair or getting your face wet until cleared by your surgeon.
    • Keep the surgical site clean and dry with fresh bandages.
    • Avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, or overexerting yourself for the first week after surgery.
    • Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
    • Wear your compression garment as directed.

    Are there other options?

    At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide range of non-surgical treatments to smooth lines and rejuvenate your look. Our Ver•ve Series treatments target facial lines and wrinkles for a refreshed, youthful appearance. For skin texture and tone, our illumineX Series laser resurfacing can improve fine lines and minimize blemishes without removing any skin. For those with sagging skin, however, a facelift remains the most effective option — removing excess tissue and tightening muscles for dramatic, natural-looking results.

    Dr. Armando Davila

    Dr. Armando Davila
    Dr. David Turer

    Dr. David Turer

    Schedule Consultation

    Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure your comfort and privacy during your visit. We are located in the heart of Pittsburgh and serve patients from all over the world. When you are ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davila or Dr. Turer. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals of looking and feeling your best.

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    Pittsburgh (Main) Office

    3109 Forbes Ave, Ste 500,
    Pittsburgh PA 15213

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    (412) 802-6100

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