One of the most common questions patients ask when considering a facelift is: how long does a facelift last? While a surgical facelift can deliver long-lasting, natural-looking results, it’s important to understand that aging doesn’t stop—it simply continues from a more refreshed starting point.
At her Bellevue practice serving Kirkland, Redmond, and Seattle, board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, Dr. Kristin J. Tarbet, performs facelift surgery. Dr. Tarbet approaches every procedure with a focus on achieving results that are both refined and enduring. Here’s what to expect when it comes to facelift longevity and how to maintain your results over time.
How Long Do Facelift Results Typically Last?
On average, facelift results last 10 to 15 years, depending on factors such as skin quality, age, lifestyle, and the specific facelift procedure performed. A traditional surgical facelift (rhytidectomy) addresses deeper structural layers of the face, which is why results tend to last longer than non-surgical treatments.
A mini facelift, while effective for earlier signs of aging, may have a shorter duration due to its more limited scope. Rather than stopping the aging process, a facelift repositions facial structures to create a more youthful baseline—meaning you will continue to age, but from a refreshed, more balanced appearance.
What Affects Facelift Longevity?
Several factors influence how long your cosmetic facelift results will last:
- Skin quality and elasticity
- Sun exposure and skincare habits
- Genetics and natural aging patterns
- Lifestyle factors, including smoking and nutrition
Patients who prioritize skin health and overall wellness often enjoy longer-lasting results.
Mini Facelift vs. Full Facelift: What’s the Difference in Duration?
A mini facelift is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate aging and focuses on the lower face. Results are noticeable but may last closer to 5–10 years.
A full facelift procedure addresses deeper layers and more advanced signs of aging, providing more comprehensive and longer-lasting results.
Choosing the right approach depends on your anatomy, goals, and the degree of correction needed. A personalized consultation helps determine the most appropriate option.
Maintaining Your Facelift Results
While facelift surgery delivers significant and long-lasting improvement, maintenance plays an important role in preserving your results.
To support facelift longevity:
- Use daily sun protection to prevent premature aging
- Maintain a consistent, medical-grade skincare routine
- Consider non-surgical treatments such as lasers or injectables for ongoing refinement
- Avoid smoking and prioritize overall health
These strategies help protect your investment and keep your results looking natural over time.
The Importance of Surgeon Expertise
The quality of your results—and how long they last—depends heavily on the skill and experience of your surgeon.
As a trusted facelift surgeon in Bellevue, Dr. Kristin Tarbet takes a meticulous, individualized approach to facial rejuvenation. Her goal is not to create a dramatically different appearance, but to restore natural contours in a way that ages gracefully.
You can view facelift before and after results to see the level of refinement and balance achieved with her approach.
Is a Facelift Worth It Long-Term?
A well-performed facelift offers results that last significantly longer than non-surgical alternatives, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking meaningful, lasting rejuvenation.
Understanding realistic expectations—and how to maintain your results—can help you feel confident in your decision.
Schedule a Facelift Consultation in Bellevue
If you’re considering a facelift and want to learn more about your options, a personalized evaluation is the best next step. Offering a comprehensive menu of facial procedures, contact us in Bellevue today to request a facelift consultation with Dr. Tarbet and receive individualized recommendations on how to achieve your aesthetic goals.
