Saratoga (408) 741-9982 Redwood City (650) 227-9693
Translate icon
Contact Us

Rediscover the Most Confident Version of You

Facial aging is inevitable, but how you experience it is not. At Cheng Plastic Surgery in San Mateo, we perform custom mini- or deep-plane facelift surgery designed to restore youthful definition and lift with a natural look that reflects you, only refreshed. Whether you’re concerned about jowls, sagging skin, or a softening jawline, a facelift can restore the structure, contour, and energy of your face without ever looking overdone.

Under the leadership of double board-certified facial plastic surgeons Drs. Elbert and Jacqueline Cheng—named the Best Plastic Surgeons in the Bay Area—our practice is devoted solely to the face, head, and neck. Each facelift is approached with surgical precision, artistic vision, and a deeply personalized touch to achieve results that are naturally refined and uniquely yours.

two woman looking at magazine

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the skin, muscle, and underlying tissue of the lower two-thirds of the face. It repositions facial structures that have descended over time, corrects sagging, and smooths deep folds, offering long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation. A facelift can address:

  • Jowls and loss of jawline definition
  • Deep nasolabial folds (smile lines)
  • Sagging cheeks and midface volume loss
  • Loose skin and tissue under the chin
  • Wrinkles and skin laxity in the lower face

Facelift Before & After

Facelift Techniques We Offer

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, your facelift is never one-size-fits-all. We offer several advanced facelift techniques tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals:

SMAS Facelift

  • Targets: Mid- and lower face
  • Technique: Repositions the underlying Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) for a natural lift
  • Benefits: Long-lasting results with minimal scarring; avoids an over-pulled appearance

Deep Plane Facelift

  • Targets: More advanced sagging
  • Technique: Releases deeper facial ligaments for a more comprehensive, natural repositioning
  • Benefits: Superior lift and rejuvenation for appropriate candidates

Mini Facelift

  • Targets: Early signs of aging, especially in the jawline
  • Technique: Less invasive with shorter incisions
  • Benefits: Faster recovery and subtle refinement for younger patients

Mid Facelift

  • Targets: Cheeks and under-eye area
  • Technique: Lifts tissues in the middle third of the face
  • Benefits: Smooths under-eye hollows and restores cheek contour

S-Lift

  • Targets: Lower face and neck
  • Technique: An S-shaped incision to lift skin and tissue
  • Benefits: Ideal for mild to moderate facial laxity
Background media

Benefits of a Custom Facelift

  • Restores natural facial contours without looking tight or pulled
  • Rejuvenates your appearance by 10–15 years
  • Enhances jawline and cheek structure
  • Creates smoother, firmer skin with fewer deep lines
  • Boosts self-confidence and emotional well-being
  • Offers long-lasting, graceful aging support
plant

Are You a Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for a facelift if you:

  • Are in good overall health and are a non-smoker
  • Have loose facial skin, jowling, or deep folds
  • Want a long-term solution rather than temporary fillers
  • Seek natural results—not drastic or artificial changes
  • Desire customized care from facial surgery specialists

We tailor every procedure with careful analysis, imaging, and one-on-one consultation to ensure it matches your face and vision.

Schedule A Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media

What to Expect During Facelift Surgery

Anesthesia

Local with sedation or general anesthesia

Incisions

Hidden around the ears, along the hairline, or under the chin

Duration

Varies based on technique (2–5 hours typical)

Technique

Lifting and repositioning deeper tissues, removing excess skin, and re-draping skin naturally

Every incision is placed with discretion and care to ensure minimal visibility and optimal healing.

Please note While consultations and follow-up visits can be scheduled at our San Mateo office, all surgeries are performed at our fully accredited surgical suite in Saratoga.

“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 p...

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 actu...

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 th...

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 something I’ve never had with any of my previous surgeries. In the past, I always bruised, so I was impressed by Dr. Cheng’s skill. It’s been 6 months since the surgery and the fold height is now much closer to my other eye. The result looks very natural. Highly recommend Dr. Cheng to anyone considering eyelid surgery!

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 consu...

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 doctor who is experienced and very knowledgeable in his field.

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 ...

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 get it removed with lipo.

The staff at Cheng Plastic Surgery were all absolutely amazing. The staff and Dr. Cheng gave me all the information about the procedure and answered all my questions. They were not pushy at all and let me take the time to decide if this was something I wanted to pursue. The day of the procedure, Dr. Cheng and staff were great and made sure I was comfortable and not nervous. The procedure itself was rather quick (less than an hour) and painless. Recovery was surprisingly not bad. There were quick check-in visits post-surgery for Dr. Cheng to monitor healing. I followed all of the post-procedure instructions and healed with no complications and I’m pleased to say the double chin is gone. It’s such a relief to not see it show up in photos anymore. I’m so thankful to Dr. Cheng and his staff - highly recommend.

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!
Ind...

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 d...

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 comin...

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...

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 g...

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 wor...

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!...

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 appoin...

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 anyth...

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.

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...

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.

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 an...

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 & his team for all your aesthetic needs ❤️

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 microbladin...

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 ice cube to make sure that I was comfortable during the treatment, and talked me through what they were doing during the entire process. The results after one session were already very good and apparent, with the tattoo fading a lot (picture attached). I made a follow-up appointment for 3 months out, but the doctor mentioned that it should fade even more before then as my skin will naturally fade the ink. I would thoroughly recommend this practice for your tattoo/microblading removal.

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 friendl...

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 co...

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 welcoming.

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, ...

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 experienced/professional and well informed, told her my goals and she worked her magic. Don't regret it one bit. And Teresa's energy is beautiful, feels genuine and warm-- I feel that is important in these types of services!

Location is great. Aesthetics are on point. Super clean. Everyone who I interacted in the office with was very kind, so many smiles. As soon as you enter you feel welcomed and inside rooms I always felt well attended.

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!...

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 beyon...

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. Sche...

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.

Recovery & Healing

Our patients are supported every step of the way, including optional in-home care from our Patient Care Coordinator.

Recovery Timeline:

  • Go home the same day with a supportive wrap
  • Bruising, swelling, and tightness are normal for 1–2 weeks
  • Sutures are typically removed in 5–7 days
  • Return to work or light activities in 10–14 days
  • Avoid strenuous activity or exercise for 2-3 weeks
  • Final results continue to refine over several months

Sleeping upright and using cold compresses can help minimize swelling in the early days.

Combining Procedures for Full Rejuvenation

Many of our facelift patients choose to combine procedures for a more harmonious outcome. Options include:

  • Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty): To brighten the eyes
  • Fat Grafting/Transfer: To volumize your face
  • Brow lift: To lift the upper face
  • Neck lift: To enhance the jawline and smooth neck bands
  • Fat transfer or fillers: To restore volume
  • Laser or skin treatments: To improve tone and texture
Banner media

Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery for Your Facelift?

Facial rejuvenation is both a science and an art—and it’s our sole specialty. The Cheng Difference:

  • Double board-certified facial plastic surgeons with elite training and decades of experience
  • Voted the Bay Area’s Best Plastic Surgeons by Mercury News readers in 2025
  • Bringing together more than 50 years of combined expertise in plastic surgery
  • National educators and published authors in facial plastic surgery
  • Trusted by thousands of patients across the Bay Area and beyond
  • Expert familiarity with diverse facial anatomy, including Asian and ethnic facial structures
  • State-of-the-art, private surgical suite in San Mateo
  • A family team delivering compassionate, high-touch care

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we don’t just help you look younger—we help you feel seen, understood, and supported through every step of your transformation.

plant

FAQ Facelift

How long do results last?

How long do results last?
Most facelift results last 10–15 years, depending on skin quality, age, and lifestyle.

Will my results look natural?

Will my results look natural?
Yes. Our techniques lift deeper tissues, not just skin, for refined, organic results—never overly tight or obvious.

When can I return to social activities?

When can I return to social activities?
Many patients feel confident resuming social life after 2 weeks, with makeup to cover residual bruising.

Can I combine my facelift with non-surgical treatments?

Can I combine my facelift with non-surgical treatments?
Yes. Botox®, fillers, microneedling, and laser treatments can enhance and extend your results.

What if I have a major event coming up?

What if I have a major event coming up?
We recommend scheduling surgery at least 2 months in advance of any major event for full healing.

art

Begin Your Facial Renewal

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, facelift surgery goes beyond aesthetics—it’s a personalized transformation. Guided by surgical expertise, artistic precision, and a deep commitment to your unique features, we create results that are naturally refreshed and beautifully refined. Trust your face—and your transformation—to the very best.

Schedule your private consultation in San Mateo and discover what’s possible when you trust your face to specialists.

Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (408) 741-9982.
Contact Us
Translate icon