Facelift in San Jose & Palo Alto

Name: Facelift
Brand: Cheng Plastic Surgery
Rating: 4.9 (275 reviews)

Facelift Recovery Facelift Types And Techniques

Facelift Overview

Custom Facelifts at Cheng Plastic Surgery

Your facial structure is unique, as is the way in which time and gravity have affected your skin and tissue. A facelift in San Jose performed at Cheng Plastic Surgery will be custom-tailored for you. The procedure can help reestablish definition in the jawline, reduce midface sagging, and combat drooping jowls. As double-board certified facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Jacqueline T. Cheng and Dr. Elbert T. Cheng use several of the most advanced, cutting-edge techniques available today. The first step is a private consultation to determine which surgical approach will produce the most attractive results for you.

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is the most comprehensive treatment for facial aging. Our custom facelift in San Jose will smooth lines and wrinkles, correct jowls, and restore youthful definition at your jawline. A facelift, when performed with advanced surgical techniques, creates a refreshed, restored, and natural look, not overly tight or pulled.

With doctors that are double board-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as head and neck surgery, you can feel safe in your decision to choose Cheng Plastic Surgery, confident that you will receive top-of-the-line treatment. A facelift can address the following:

Sagging skin
Creases, wrinkles and lines
Jowls
Double chin
Saggy cheeks
Loss of definition in the jawline

Facelift Videos

“I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for any procedure.”

Thank you Dr. J and Dr. E and everyone at the practice!!

SUCH a great experience with Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jackie Cheng. Everyone at the practice is so nice to work with, helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I was well informed prior to the procedures received. There were no surprises and everyone at the practice ensured I had everything I needed. Healing was such a smooth experience because of all the prep provided. I could not be happier with the results. Thank you Dr. J and Dr. E and everyone at the practice!!

by S.T.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Teresa did an absolutely amazing job on my eyebrow tattoo removal! I flew all the way from Vegas to see her and it was the best decision ever! From the consultation, to the actual procedure, she was super thorough and walked me through each step of the process! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

by M.V.

The result looks very natural

I had a double eyelid revision on one eye with Dr. Elbert Cheng to correct asymmetry from previous surgeries performed by other surgeons. The consultation with Dr. Cheng felt thorough and reassuring, and I appreciated that the entire process from pre-op to post-op was clearly explained, accompanied by scheduled appointments. I also received post-op care instructions, which I believe helped speed up the recovery process. What truly amazed me was that I experienced no bruising at all, which is ...

by E.O.

Great experience with staff and procedure

Great experience with staff and procedure. I got upper blepharoplasty done in Sept with Dr. Elbert Cheng. From day one the staff was kind and very helpful. During my consultation with Dr. Cheng he was so informative and kind, great bed side manner. He was honest when I asked about other surgeries stating that I didn’t need them at this time, and gave great feedback as to why I didn’t need it and why I should wait. I love my results and healed very quickly. All in all a great...

by K.S.

One of the best decisions in my life

Long overdue review. Back in November 2023 I got chin lipo from Elbert Cheng - one of the best decisions in my life.

I was 34 at the time. I had the most stubborn double chin that would not go away. I had lost about 20 pounds through diet and exercise yet it was still there (I’m about 160 lbs, avid weightlifter). I blame genetics. I would see the double chin in photos and on screen while I was in my Zoom meetings - it became such a sore sight for me. I finally bit the bullet to g...

by A.K.

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year. She has been cautious, transparent, informative, and empathetic throughout our laser treatment sessions!
Indeed every member of the Cheng Plastic Surgery team that has helped me has been wonderful :)

by J.T.

I highly recommend Dr. Cheng

I had an amazing experience getting Botox with Dr. Cheng! Dr. Cheng and the staff are incredibly personable, taking the time to listen to my concerns and explain everything in detail. I never feel rushed, and the whole process is smooth. The results are exactly what I want—natural and refreshed without looking overdone. If you're looking for a skilled and caring provider, I highly recommend Dr. Cheng.

by K.C.

Theresa is the best at what she does!

Theresa is the best at what she does! I live in Fresno and make the drive because there is no one like her. She really takes her time to perfect her work! Will always keep coming back.

by E.A.

Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly. She has such a soothing aura that instantly puts me at ease, and I never feel nervous or anxious during the treatments. Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated. I highly recommend Teresa for anyone considering laser treatments — she makes the entire process smooth and stress-free!

by H.D.

Recommend Teresa 10/10

Teresa is great!!!! I love my lips and she was super helpful during the process to make me feel comfortable. Talked me through the whole process it didn't even feel like I was getting my lips done. Recommend Teresa 10/10 experience.

by J.S.

I highly recommend to all

A few years ago I was referred to Cheng plastic Surgery, Best referral ever! I have been fortunate to have Theresa RN, administer all my botox/dysport, she does such amazing work! I highly recommend to all.

by E.T.

Looking forward to coming back!

I visited to get chin filler done and it was such a great experience. Nurse Teresa was so helpful and walked me through everything she was doing. Looking forward to coming back!

by S.H.

Will definitely be coming back for next touch-up!

First time getting Botox at this location and my experience has been wonderful. Teresa was my nurse injector who made the process smooth and painless. Also, the follow up appointment really showed the improvement in my wrinkles, which Teresa did an amazing job. Will definitely be coming back for next touch-up!

by M.M.

I would come back if I ever needed anything

Kevin was very nice and comforting! Came here for neck line treatment (hyaluronic acid fillers). Overall, was a pleasant experience, and I would come back if I ever needed anything

by L.

by H.D.

I saw the finishing product I started to cry

Huge Shout out to Teresa for The super marvelous job she did on my lips. Honestly I was really nervous about doing lip filler and making sure that they came out looking plump and full but natural. That's exactly the result I got. Teresa knew exactly how to give me a nice border around my lips and gave me the prettiest cupids bow and pout. looks really pretty with lip liner and gloss now. I actually was so excited when I saw the finishing product I started to cry. I 100% recommend Dr. Cheng &a...

by N.E.

I would thoroughly recommend this practice

I saw Dr. Jacqueline Cheng for microblading removal using Pico laser. The entire experience from start to finish, was professional, comfortable, and efficient. I had microblading done 5-6 years ago that never faded, and the lines had blurred. I have been to this practice 3 times; the first for a free consultation, again for a spot test, and the third for the actual laser treatment.

For the day of the actual treatment, I was in and out in under 30 minutes. They numbed my eyebrow with an...

by D.Z.

I always feel well taken care of here

Dr. Jackie recommended I get the CO2 laser to help lessen the appearance of my acne scars. The procedure itself took less than 20 minutes and was not painful. I love how friendly the nurses are in the office too. I always feel well taken care of here and of course, appreciate how friendly and professional Dr. Jackie is.

by E.P.

I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not compare

I’ve gone to Cheng’s to see Alex for Botox and/or Dysport now a few times and it is always a pleasure. I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not compare. 10/10 I will always come back & recommend Botox/Dysport here at Cheng’s. Technique and knowledge goes a long way with these type of things, and cheaper doesn’t always mean better yall! Trust me I’ve learned along the way! Not to mention the office is always so clean and the staff is very we...

by C.W.

As soon as you enter you feel welcomed

Great experience here!!! The lovely person who attended me at Cheng Plastic Surgery was Teresa. She is so amazing and I left so happy. The service I came in for was lip filler, I wanted plumper lips that would look natural and she did just that! It was my first time so I can't lie and say I didn't feel nervous at first. But after the consultation and her talking me through it, it was easy to give her my full trust. She made me feel so at ease and explained everything so well. She is very expe...

by R.C.

Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!

I had a problem with a frown line & Teresa at Cheng Plastic Surgery has done a great job resolving my issue with botox/dysport therapy. Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!

by N.S.

He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor

My family has been coming to Dr. Cheng for all of our beauty needs. He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor. His team is also so kind and they will go above and beyond to make sure you’re satisfied and comfortable.

by C.

Amazing session with Kevin!

Amazing session with Kevin! Super thoughtful in explaining the journey and provided guidance on how to approach my skin. Appreciate the team of how to apply the treatments. Scheduling was easy and getting to the office was also easy

by R.K.

How Is A Facelift Performed?

Our facelift in Palo Alto can be performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia. During the procedure, the incisions are delicately hidden in the hairline, inside the ear, or in some cases, under the chin. With a correctly performed surgery and healthy healing, the incisions should be virtually invisible. Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed, and the underlying muscles are tightened and reshaped, if necessary. The skin is then meticulously replaced and sutured for a more youthful look.

Advanced Facelift and Neck Lift Surgery by Dr. Elbert and Dr. Jacqueline

Facelifts and neck lifts have advanced more than almost any other procedure in plastic surgery, resulting in the most sophisticated techniques. Namely, the Preservation Deep-Plane Facelift and Preservation Deep-Plane Neck Lift elevate the deeper layers of the face and neck as one unified structure, while preserving the natural connections between the skin and underlying fat. This approach delivers the most natural results, restoring the youthful appearance you had decades ago.

As we age, gravity causes the brows and forehead to descend, the midface and jowls to sag, and the neck to loosen. This procedure is the only surgery that truly reverses these changes by repositioning tissues back to where they were 20 years ago. By relieving the pull of gravity, the facial muscles can relax and allow your natural youthfulness to shine through.

The philosophy behind the Preservation Deep-Plane technique utilizes and maintains your body’s natural tissue connections for faster healing, smoother facial contours, and longer-lasting results. Dr. Elbert and Dr. Jacqueline have completed rigorous training in the anatomy of the head and neck and therefore have the greatest appreciation for and understanding of the fine features of the face and neck, both superficial and deep. Under the care of these award-winning surgeons, patients experience exceptional safety and unmatched outcomes.

However, while Deep-Plane Lifts are quickly becoming the gold standard, they are not always the best fit for every patient and situation. There are various types of facelifts and necklift that address specific concerns and unique issues. Explore more about these types of facelifts in the section below.

What are the Different Types of Facelifts Available?

Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift is widely regarded as one of the most advanced techniques in modern facial rejuvenation. Unlike traditional facelifts that only tighten the skin, this method lifts the deeper facial muscles and connective tissues as a single unit, restoring youthful definition to the cheeks, jawline, and neck. By releasing and repositioning the underlying support structures, the deep plane facelift achieves a natural, long-lasting transformation—never tight or overdone. This technique is ideal for patients seeking comprehensive rejuvenation with elegant, balanced results that preserve their unique facial character.

Preservation Deep Plane Facelift

The preservation deep plane facelift refines the deep-plane approach with a gentler, more conservative technique that prioritizes tissue integrity and natural volume. Instead of fully releasing all the facial ligaments, the surgeon selectively lifts and repositions only the areas that need correction—preserving vital attachments, blood flow, and fat pads. The result is a refreshed, youthful appearance with soft contours and minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues. Because the preservation method maintains the face’s natural structure, patients often enjoy a quicker recovery and exceptionally authentic results that simply look like a younger version of themselves.

SMAS Facelift

This technique focuses on lifting the mid-face, making it an option for patients with more noticeable aging and sagging in the cheeks and central face. Dr. Elbert and Dr. Jacqueline prefer and most often perform the “plication” technique (restoring the youthful position of the underlying muscles and fascia), as the outcome of this approach tends to be more significant and longer-lasting. The incisions around the ear are shorter than in older facelift techniques, with faster healing and limited scarring. However, it is not a Preservation Deep-Plane Facelift, and results for the midface and jowls are often less optimal. In carefully selected patients, though, it can still be a suitable approach.

Mini Facelift

A mini facelift is ideal for younger patients, typically in their 30s or 40s, who have early signs of aging such as mild jowling and minimal facial or neck skin laxity. The incisions are shorter, and the procedure involves less extensive work on the deeper facial and neck structures. Because this technique does not address the mid-face, improvements around the smile lines and jawline are more subtle. Similarly, since neck aging is often minimal at this stage, changes in the neck are limited. As a result of the shorter dissections and minimal disturbance of tissues, many people refer to this as the ‘weekend facelift’, a procedure that offers a refreshed look with quicker recovery compared to a traditional facelift.

S-Lift Facelift

An S-lift procedure is a version of the mini facelift that can help combat mild sagging in the face and neck. It addresses the lower third of the face and is performed with an S-shaped incision to separate the top layer of skin from the underlying tissues and muscles.

Mid Facelift

Like its name suggests, a mid facelift addresses the middle of the face and is also called a cheek lift. Incisions are made above the ears or within the mouth to produce cosmetic improvements in the area between the mouth and the eyes.

Revision Facelift

Revision surgery is often the most challenging type of procedure, as previous surgeries can significantly alter the natural anatomy. At Cheng Plastic Surgery, award-winning facial plastic surgeons Dr. Elbert and Dr. Jacqueline bring exceptional expertise in addressing these complex cases due to their considerable knowledge of anatomy and 20+ years of experience. While revision surgery can be performed and improve your result, each patient is unique and we tailor surgery to their specific needs and anatomy—we invite you to schedule a consultation to explore the best options for you.

Learn More

What are the Benefits of Facelift Surgery?

A more youthful, well-rested appearance
Correction of facial sagging, lines and wrinkles
Improved definition in the jawline
Reduction in jowling
Enhanced self-confidence
A better first impression
Natural-looking outcome

Facelift Before & After

View Gallery

Am I A Candidate for A Facelift?

Our double board-certified facial plastic surgeons will spend time with you to understand your aesthetic goals and will evaluate your facial skin and tissue carefully to determine the most effective surgical plan for your facelift in San Jose.

If you are in good general health and do not have a medical condition or illness that could put you at risk in surgery, you are likely a candidate for a custom facelift.

On Site Surgery Center and Anesthesiologists

All procedures at Cheng Plastic Surgery are performed on-site by our double board-certified surgeons in our modern, fully accredited, AAAHC-certified surgical center. Our private two-room operating facility is staffed by Stanford-trained anesthesiologists, offering local, IV, or general anesthesia with the highest standards of safety and comfort. Designed with both privacy and elegance in mind, the center features a private and dedicated entrance and exit, as well as a specialized nursing team. It is truly luxury and discretion combined into one seamless surgical experience.

Concierge Services and Out-of-Town Guests

At the premier plastic surgery practice in the Bay Area, we support you through every step of your journey—before, during, and after surgery. Many of our staff have been with us for decades and are deeply rooted in the community, offering both expertise and a personal touch. Whether you need help arranging hotel accommodations, flights, local activities, or immediate post-surgical care, our team is available to personalize your experience. Simply let us know what you need, and we will take care of the details for you and your family.

What Is Recovery Like After A Facelift?

You will be able to go home within a few hours of your facelift surgery at our San Jose practice and must be driven home and supervised for 24 hours by a competent adult friend or family member. Our Patient Care Coordinator also offers her own at-home care service for our patients post-surgery at an additional cost.

There will be some bruising, numbness, tightness, and discomfort for up to ten days. While swelling will take a little bit longer to disappear, it quickly fades. You will have pain medication for the early stages of healing. You may find it more comfortable to sleep upright in a reclining chair for a few nights to keep the swelling to a minimum. Once comfortable sleeping in bed, it is best to keep your head elevated on extra pillows.

We generally recommend that patients keep their schedules clear for at least two weeks after surgery. This time is best spent resting and recovering at home or in a hotel, without the added stress of work or outside obligations. Of course, every patient heals at a different pace, depending on the type of facelift and individual genetics, recovery may take longer.

At Cheng Plastic Surgery—recognized as the Best in the Bay Area—our team will be with you every step of the way to support the smoothest and fastest recovery possible.

Learn More

What Is The Cost of a Facelift?

As a facelift is a customized procedure, and every person has different needs, the cost varies. For a younger patient, the price may be lower, while older patients with more extensive signs of aging may require added surgical work to restore the neck, eyes, or brows.

Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery for a Facelift?

Trained at the nation’s most prestigious universities and apprenticed under internationally renowned facial plastic surgeons, Drs. Elbert and Jacqueline Cheng are both double board-certified in facelift procedures by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. They have been trusted to perform thousands of facial plastic surgery procedures for patients nationwide.

They draw on highly technical medical knowledge and years of honed surgical skills to produce results that are as natural as they are nuanced. Only at Cheng Plastic Surgery do you have the unique advantage of having your facelift in San Jose performed by a family team of double board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive education and experience in both head and neck and facial plastic surgery.

Beyond their use of advanced procedures and their ability to produce naturally youthful results, Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jacqueline Cheng are renowned for their intrinsic familiarity with facial anatomy that allows them to safely produce consistently beautiful results that look natural and betray no signs of having had facial work done. You’ll simply look better and younger, naturally.

As published authors of peer-reviewed literature, Dr. Jacqueline Cheng trains other plastic surgeons, while Dr. Elbert Cheng is a nationally recognized Advanced Allergan Trainer and Instructor of 15 years. Both are board-certified facial plastic surgeons of the highest caliber.

Explore Our Office

Our Locations

12945 Saratoga Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070

(408) 741-9982

100 Arch Street, Suite 4
Redwood City, CA 94062

(650) 227-9693

FAQ Facelift

When will I be able to go back to my social life?

You should look and feel well enough to go out and share your new look within about two weeks, although this may vary from patient to patient.

How long before a special event should I plan my surgery?

If you have a wedding, reunion, special event, or similar engagement, plan your surgery at least two months before the event, so you are looking your best.

Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?

Yes, definitely! A facelift can be well paired with blepharoplasty, a brow lift, or a neck lift. It can also be combined with non-surgical procedures such as botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy.

Will a facelift leave noticeable scars?

Facelift incisions are typically made in inconspicuous areas like around the ears and along the hairline, so scars are usually well-hidden. With proper care, scars tend to fade significantly over time.

How long will the results of my facelift last?

Facelift results can last 10-15 years, depending on factors like skin type, age, and lifestyle. While a facelift can’t stop the aging process, it can significantly reduce visible signs of aging.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to a facelift?

Yes, non-surgical options like Botox, dermal fillers, and laser treatments can provide temporary rejuvenation but won't achieve the same long-lasting results as a facelift.

Will my facelift look natural?

Yes, modern facelift techniques are designed to produce natural-looking results. Dr. Jacqueline T. Cheng and Dr. Elbert T. Cheng will focus on lifting and tightening underlying tissues rather than just pulling the skin, resulting in a more youthful yet natural appearance.

What type of anesthesia is used during a facelift?

Facelifts are typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, ensuring comfort throughout the procedure.

How soon can I exercise after a facelift?

Strenuous exercise should be avoided for about 4-6 weeks after surgery to prevent complications. Light activities, like walking, can usually be resumed after a week or so.

What are the potential risks or complications of a facelift?

Like any surgery, facelifts carry risks such as infection, scarring, nerve damage, or asymmetry. However, these risks are minimized when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Jacqueline T. Cheng and Dr. Elbert T. Cheng.

How can I maintain my facelift results over time?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting your skin from the sun, and using quality skincare products can help prolong your facelift results. Non-surgical treatments like Botox and fillers can also help maintain your youthful appearance.

Facelift Recovery

Facelift Types And Techniques