Comprehensive Facial Rejuvenation With Lasting Results
A facelift—also known as a rhytidectomy surgery— is designed to restore definition to the lower face, jawline, and neck when sagging skin and tissue begin to change the way you look in the mirror. At Kristin J. Tarbet, MD Oculofacial Plastic Surgery in Bellevue, facelift surgery focuses on repositioning deeper facial structures rather than simply tightening skin. This allows for natural-looking results that refresh your appearance without looking pulled or overdone.
For patients experiencing moderate to advanced signs of facial aging, a cosmetic facelift offers the most meaningful and lasting improvement.
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Patients choose facelift surgery because it provides comprehensive rejuvenation that nonsurgical treatments cannot replicate.
Benefits include:
- Restoration of jawline definition
- Reduction of jowls and lower face sagging
- Smoothing of deep facial folds and creases
- Improvement in neck laxity and contour
- Natural-looking, long-lasting facial rejuvenation
A facelift does not change how you look. It restores how you used to look.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Surgical Facelift?
You may be a good candidate for a facelift if you:
- Notice significant jowling or jawline softening
- Have loose or sagging skin in the lower face and neck
- Feel that your facial appearance looks older or tired despite feeling energetic
- Want long-term improvement rather than temporary fixes
Age alone does not determine candidacy. Facial anatomy, skin quality, and personal goals are carefully evaluated during your facelift consultation.
Patients with earlier aging changes may benefit more from a mini facelift, while others may combine facelift surgery with procedures like Eyelid Surgery or an Eyebrow and Forehead Lift for balanced rejuvenation.
How a Facelift Restores Facial Structure
A facelift is not simply a procedure to tighten loose skin. It is designed to correct the deeper structural changes that occur in the face over time as tissue descends, fat shifts, and support weakens beneath the surface.
As these changes develop, the jawline softens, jowls form, folds deepen around the mouth, and the neck begins to lose definition. These are not skin problems alone. They are changes in the underlying framework of the face.
Facelift surgery addresses this by repositioning the foundational layer of tissue beneath the skin, known as the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system). By lifting and securing this deeper layer, facial contours are restored in a way that looks natural and moves naturally with your expressions.
Once the deeper structure is supported, the skin is gently redraped without tension and excess tissue is removed. This approach avoids the tight or pulled appearance associated with older facelift techniques and instead creates smoother, firmer contours that reflect a more youthful version of you.
Because the lift occurs at the structural level, results are longer lasting and more balanced across the midface, jawline, and neck.
What Dr. Tarbet’s Facelift Patients Say
“Dr. Tarbet is experienced and outstanding in her field. I highly recommend seeing Dr. Tarbet for all cosmetic needs and especially for eye surgery or a facelift. I promise you will not be disappointed.” – Beckie P.
“I recently saw Kristin Tarbet, MD and she did an amazing job on my face as well as on my daughter. We both are thrilled with our results.” – Carol S.
Facelift Before & After Photos
FAQs About Facelift Surgery in Bellevue
How is facelift surgery performed?
Facelift surgery is typically performed under anesthesia and takes several hours depending on the surgical plan. Incisions are placed discreetly around the ears and hairline to minimize visibility.
Through these incisions, Dr. Tarbet:
- Lifts and repositions the SMAS layer
- Restores natural facial contours
- Redrapes skin without surface tension
- Removes excess tissue for a smooth, youthful profile
Permanent internal sutures secure deeper tissues, helping the lift remain stable for many years.
How long does a facelift last?
Results often last 10 years or more because deeper facial structures are repositioned. Aging continues naturally, but from a more youthful baseline.
What is the difference between a facelift and a mini facelift?
A mini facelift focuses on early lower-face aging with smaller incisions. A full facelift addresses more advanced aging in the midface, jawline, and neck.
What is recovery like after facelift surgery?
Most patients return to normal activities within two to three weeks. Swelling and bruising improve steadily over several weeks.
Will my facelift look natural?
Yes. Dr. Tarbet’s technique avoids skin tension and focuses on deeper structural lifting for natural expression.
Can a facelift improve my neck?
A facelift can improve the upper portion of the neck and the transition between the jawline and neck by lifting deeper facial tissues. However, patients with significant neck laxity, banding, or excess skin may benefit from additional neck contouring procedures. Dr. Tarbet will evaluate your anatomy during consultation and recommend the approach that provides the most natural and complete result.
How much does a facelift cost in Bellevue?
Cost varies based on surgical details and whether procedures are combined. Financing options may be available, and detailed pricing is reviewed during consultation.
Are virtual facelift consultations available?
Yes. Patients can schedule virtual consultations for convenience.
Why Choose Dr. Kristin Tarbet for a Facelift in Bellevue?
Facial rejuvenation requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy and artistic precision. Meet Dr. Kristin J. Tarbet to learn more about her specialized approach to oculofacial and cosmetic surgery.
Patients choose Dr. Tarbet because of her:
- Expertise in SMAS-based facelift techniques
- Focus on natural, balanced results
- Meticulous incision placement and scar minimization
- Personalized surgical planning
You can explore real patient outcomes in the Before and After Facelift Gallery and read patient testimonials to understand the quality of results.
Schedule Your Facelift Consultation
If you are considering facelift surgery in Bellevue, Seattle, or Redmond, the first step is a personalized evaluation. During your visit, Dr. Tarbet will assess your facial structure, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate surgical plan.
Use our contact page to book a facelift consultation or get directions to our Bellevue office.
