Five Myths About Facelifts and Neck Lifts
Despite modern advancements in facial plastic surgery, misinformation about facial rejuvenation often lingers longer than wrinkles themselves. Myths about facelifts and neck lifts continue to shape public perception, and unfortunately, they may hold people back from discovering just how transformative these procedures can be.
At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we believe in empowering our patients through education. Drs. Elbert and Jacqueline Cheng—our brother-sister team of double board-certified facial plastic surgeons—approach every patient with compassion, artistry, and the most advanced techniques available today.
It’s time to separate fact from fiction. Here are five common myths we’d like to set straight.
Myth 1: “I’ll look tight, fake, or windblown.”
Truth: A properly performed modern facelift should never look “done.”
For decades, high-profile images of overly tight, expressionless faces have perpetuated the stereotype of a “bad facelift.” These outcomes often stemmed from early facelift techniques that focused solely on pulling and excising the skin, with little attention given to the underlying muscle and connective tissue.
Unfortunately, these older methods did not address the actual cause of facial aging: the descent of deeper facial structures. As a result, the skin was overstretched while the foundation beneath remained unchanged. This led to a taut or artificial appearance that did not move naturally or reflect the patient’s true character.
At Cheng Plastic Surgery, Dr. Jacqueline and Dr. Elbert Cheng offer a unique blend of science and artistry in their facial procedures. Both are double board-certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Head and Neck Surgery, ensuring exceptional expertise.
Our facelift techniques focus on repositioning the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer to restore youthful contours. By lifting and reshaping deeper structures before redraping the skin, we achieve a natural look without the tight appearance often associated with facelifts.
Myth 2: “Facelifts are only for people over 60.”
Truth: Age is not the only factor that determines candidacy.
Genetics, lifestyle, and skin health all influence how and when signs of aging appear. Many patients in their 40s and 50s benefit from a facelift or neck lift to address early sagging or loss of jawline definition, especially when they want to age gracefully, not suddenly.
Younger patients may also opt for a mini facelift or S-lift, which offer subtle yet meaningful enhancement with less downtime.
Myth 3: “There’s only one kind of facelift.”
Truth: There is no one-size-fits-all solution to facial aging.
At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we offer a spectrum of customized facelift techniques, including:
- SMAS plication for long-lasting mid- and lower-face rejuvenation
- Deep plane facelifts for significant lifting with discreet scarring
- Mini facelifts and S-lifts for early or moderate signs of aging
- Mid facelifts for youthful volume restoration in the cheek area
We may also recommend combining your facelift with a neck lift, eyelid surgery, lip lift, or fat grafting for full-face harmony and balance.
Myth 4: “Facelift and neck lift scars are obvious.”
Truth: With today’s meticulous surgical techniques, scars are minimal and virtually invisible.
Drs. Elbert and Jacqueline Cheng carefully place tension-free incisions along the natural creases of the ear, within the hairline, and sometimes beneath the chin. Over time, these incision lines fade beautifully and are well-hidden, even with your hair pulled back.
Patients are often surprised at just how discreet—and elegant—their results appear.
Myth 5: “The recovery will be long and painful.”
Truth: Recovery from a facelift or neck lift is far more manageable than most expect.
While some bruising and swelling are normal, most patients return to social activities within two weeks. We provide detailed aftercare instructions, advanced scar products, and the option of personal at-home care from our dedicated Patient Care Coordinator.
Cheng Plastic Surgery: Busting Myths, Building Confidence
Choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure is a deeply personal decision. We hope to replace fear and hesitation with clarity and a sense of possibility by busting these common myths about facelifts and neck lifts. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a refreshed, natural-looking you, we invite you to schedule a private consultation with us today.