Lower Face Lift: Comprehensive Guide to Procedure, Benefits, Costs, and Recovery

February 2, 2026

If you still live life with the energy of your 20s, it can be jarring when the mirror reflects a face that looks older than you feel on the inside.

But you’re not alone, and you don’t have to settle for that disconnect. We’re here to help you look as vibrant as you feel.

Dr. Jordan Rihani’s lower face lift is designed to refresh the appearance of your lower face, addressing jowls, sagging skin, and deep folds, while preserving the features that make you you.

Here’s why you should choose Dr. Rihani:

15+ years of experience as a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a specialization in aging face surgery and facial rejuvenation
Double board-certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery
Top Doctor awardee since 2015
Author of multiple book chapters and research papers published in peer-reviewed academic journals

If you’ve tried dermal fillers, BOTOX®, or even laser treatments but still feel like your reflection doesn’t match how you feel inside, a lower facelift can give you the lasting, more youthful appearance you’ve been hoping to achieve.

But let’s be real: Undergoing a surgical procedure can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time. You likely want to know how this decision will impact you in the future.

“Is a lower facelift really right for me?” “What if I pick the wrong surgeon?”

At the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute, we don’t push procedures to patients as if we’re selling them a product.

Instead, we prioritize honest conversations. We take the time to walk you through your options, including whether a lower facelift is truly the best path forward for you.

If you decide to move ahead, we’ll guide you every step of the way, from how the surgery works to what recovery looks like and how to maintain your results for years to come.

When you’re ready to restore a firmer, more youthful appearance that still looks like you, we’re here.

Schedule your lower facelift consultation with one of Texas’s leading facial plastic surgeons by calling (817) 529-3232, filling out our consultation form, or visiting our Fort Worth clinic at 800 8th Ave #400, Fort Worth, TX 76104.

Why Choose Double Board Certified Facial Specialist Dr. Jordan Rihani for Your Lower Facelift?

When it comes to lower facelifts, choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference, not just in your results, but in how confident and cared for you feel throughout the journey.

Facial surgery requires skill, precision, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. That’s where Dr. Rihani comes in.

As an experienced, double board-certified facial specialist, he possesses all the necessary qualifications.

Here’s why you should consider Dr. Rihani for your lower facelift:

Unmatched Credentials and Expertise
- Has dual certification in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Clinical Assistant Professor at the UT (University of Texas) Southwestern Medical Center, one of the country’s foremost institutions for facial surgery
- Extensive surgical experience, specialising in facial plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures, including deep plane facelift, fillers, and BOTOX®
- A graduate of New York University School of Medicine, a world-renowned institution
- Completed his residency at UT Southwestern, where he trained alongside some of the most respected names in facial plastic surgery
Patient-Centered Philosophy
- Ensures a personalized approach for every patient, customizing treatment plans based on individual anatomy, goals, and expectations
- Delivers natural-looking results, carefully avoiding the “pulled” and overdone appearance
- Prioritizes your comfort, confidence, and satisfaction
Reputation and Recognition

- Founder and lead surgeon of the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute, a premier center for facial rejuvenation serving the Dallas-Fort Worth and Southlake communities
- Consistently named a Top Doctor since 2015
- Published expert in peer-reviewed journals and medical textbooks on facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery

But beyond the titles and accolades is something even more telling—the consistent praise from real patients.

Extensive patient testimonials speak volumes about his professionalism, compassion, and ability to deliver transformative yet natural-looking results.

His before-and-after gallery further reinforces these stories, showcasing subtle, refined improvements that reflect both his skill and aesthetic sensitivity.

If you’re searching for a surgeon who combines advanced medical training with compassionate, personalized care, Dr. Rihani offers a level of expertise and support that’s truly rare.

What Is a Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

If sagging jowls, deep folds, or a weighed-down jawline no longer reflect the energy you feel inside, it might be time for more than surface-level fixes.

A lower facelift (also known as a cheek lift) with Dr. Rihani can help rejuvenate your facial features and structures, including:

Jawline
Jowls (loose skin on the jaw and cheeks)
Nasolabial folds (also known as laugh or smile lines)
Marionette lines (wrinkles at the corners of the mouth)

A lower facelift procedure typically involves:

Repositioning the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), a layer of connective tissue and muscle that plays a major role in facial sagging

Dr. Rihani uses deep-plane techniques to lift and reposition the SMAS layer to its natural position.

Removing or redraping excess skin around the lower cheeks and jawline
Sculpting and repositioning fat to restore youthful volume and improve facial contours.

Dr. Rihani’s approach provides longer-lasting, natural-looking results with less tension on the skin, avoiding the risk of a “pulled” appearance.

To help you understand the lower facelift better, here’s how it differs from other facelift procedures:

Facelift Type	Best For
Lower Facelift	People with jowls, but relatively less neck sagging
Mini Facelift	Early signs of aging, including minimal skin laxity in the neck area and lower face Patients in their 40s to 50s or those seeking subtle enhancements
Full Facelift	Advanced aging over the mid and lower face, plus neck sagging Patients aged 60 and above
Mid-Facelift	Sagging cheeks without prominent jowls or neck sagging Patients in their late 30s to early 50s who live an active lifestyle
Neck Lift	People with excess neck skin and fat (neck bands)

Conditions That a Lower Facelift Can Fix: Sagging Skin, Jowls, and Nasolabial Folds

A lower facelift can correct the most common signs of aging, specifically those below the corners of your mouth, including:

Jowls and sagging skin
As people age, their skin typically loses volume and elasticity, leading to sagging and less-defined facial contours.
When this phenomenon occurs on the lower face, it often leads to the formation of jowls.
A jowl presents as loose, excess skin and tissue that typically accumulates along the jawline.

Nasolabial folds
Nasolabial folds extend from the edges of your nose to the corners of your mouth. These lines tend to deepen and become more noticeable with age.

Marionette lines
Marionette lines, or melomental folds, are the creases that run from the corners of your mouth down toward your chin. They sit just below the nasolabial folds and often become more defined over time.

Sagging neck skin (when combined with a neck lift)
Most patients benefit from both a lower facelift and a neck lift. That’s because the muscle that contributes to sagging is one continuous structure. It runs from the lower face into the neck.
Dr. Rihani employs deep-plane facelift techniques, with incisions carefully placed around the ears to remain discreet.
Instead of just tightening the skin, he lifts and repositions the deeper facial layers for a more natural, long-lasting result.

How Does a Lower Facelift Improve Your Appearance?

When the lower face starts to sag, it can add years to your appearance, making you look more tired, worn down, or older than you actually feel.

If you’ve noticed jowls, deep folds, or a softening jawline, you’re not imagining it. These are natural signs of aging, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them.

A lower facelift with Dr. Rihani can reverse those visible changes, restoring a firmer, more youthful contour without making you look “done” or unrecognisable.

Here’s how a lower facelift works, and what you can realistically expect:

Lifting and Tightening Sagging Skin
A lower facelift restores your natural, youthful appearance. It doesn’t erase your unique facial features.
Dr. Rihani’s preferred technique lifts and secures the deeper layers of the face, including skin, fat, and muscle, back to their natural position.
This smooths out sagging without producing a “pulled” or “stretched” look.

Defining the Jawline
Jowls and lax skin can blur the jawline, making the face appear heavier or older.
Dr. Rihani lifts sagging tissue to restore jawline definition and reduce or eliminate jowls.
When paired with a neck lift, it also tightens the area under the chin, resulting in a more sculpted and streamlined profile.

Improving Neck Contours
If the neck shows enough sagging to need a lift, the lower face often does too.
Treating the lower face and neck areas helps create balanced, natural-looking results without a visible mismatch between the face and neck.

Reducing Deep Wrinkles and Folds
As you may have noticed, deep folds like nasolabial lines and marionette lines tend to become more pronounced over time. That’s often due to a combination of facial volume loss and the effects of gravity.
That’s where Dr. Rihani’s approach to the lower facelift can make a real difference.
Dr. Rihani repositions the SMAS layer to restore sagging tissues and fat pads to their original positions, helping smooth nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

One of the things patients appreciate most is Dr. Rihani’s attention to detail. Using a hidden incision technique, he places incisions discreetly around the ears and hairline to keep surgical marks out of sight.

The result? You’ll look naturally rejuvenated, without it being obvious you had work done.

Why Choose a Lower Facelift Over Other Types of Facelifts?

Faces age differently, so there’s no single facelift procedure that suits everyone. The best approach depends on your specific features, goals, and how aging has affected your facial appearance.

If you’re noticing jowls, deep lines, or a less-defined jawline, a lower facelift may be the right fit for achieving natural, targeted results.

Here’s a side-by-side look at how a lower facelift compares to other facial rejuvenation options, so you can see which one matches your goals best:

Lower Facelift (Using Deep Plane Technique)

- Target Areas: Jowls, jawline, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines

- Expected Outcomes:
  - A more defined jawline
  - Improved lower face contour
  - Natural, youthful lower face transformation

- Recovery Time:
  - One to two weeks of initial recovery (most bruises begin to fade, and swelling is significantly reduced)
  - You can go back to light physical tasks four to six weeks after surgery
  - Most swelling is down (around 90%), and patients are looking like themselves again at the two-month mark

- Longevity of results: 10 to 15 years

Mini Facelift

- Targeted Areas: Lower face and neck area

- Expected Outcomes: Tightened lower face from the cheekbone to the jowls

- Recovery Time:
  - You can go back to normal activities within a few days
  - Full recovery is typically within one week

- Longevity of results: Up to five years

Full Facelift

- Targeted Areas: Midface, lower face, neck

- Expected Outcomes: Tightened facial muscles in the eye area down to the chin line

- Recovery Time:

- - You can typically resume light daily activities after two or three weeks
  - Early results may be visible within a month
  - The full outcome may take up to six months

- Longevity of results: 10 to 15 years

Mid-Facelift

- Targeted Areas: The cheek area of the face

- Expected Outcomes: Fuller, elevated cheeks

- Recovery Time:
  - Initial recovery is around two to three weeks
  - You can resume regular activities, including workouts, after one month
  - Final results without swelling or bruising in two to four months

- Longevity of results: Seven to ten years

Neck Lift

- Targeted Areas: Loose neck skin and skin under the chin

- Expected Outcomes: Sharper neckline and a firmer and more youthful neck profile

- Recovery Time:
  - You can go back to everyday activities after two weeks
  - Full recovery may require several months

Longevity of results: Around 5.5 years

If you have visible signs of aging in both the lower face and the neck, combining a lower facelift with a neck lift usually offers the most balanced, natural-looking results.

Together, they address loose skin, sagging tissue, and loss of definition across both areas, helping to restore a smoother, more youthful profile.

That said, not everyone needs both procedures. If your concerns are limited to one area, a single, targeted procedure may be all you need to see a meaningful improvement.

For long-lasting, noticeable improvement in the jawline and lower face, Dr. Rihani typically recommends a lower facelift.

It’s ideal for restoring definition, lifting sagging tissue, and smoothing deep folds—especially if you’re looking for results that age gracefully with you.

If you’re after more subtle changes with minimal downtime, more conservative options, such as fillers, thread lifts, or BOTOX®, might be worth exploring.

However, it is worth noting that these nonsurgical treatments are temporary, and in some cases, may alter the natural shape of your face.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Lower Facelift?

Choosing to have a lower facelift surgery is a personal decision, and it’s not the right path for everyone.

So, how is it a good fit for you? Here are a few things to consider:

Facial skin condition: You’re noticing visible signs of aging in the lower third of the face, including sagging along the jawline (jowls), loose skin, and deep lines around the mouth, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines.
These changes can make the face look worn or heavy, even if you still feel sharp and energetic.
Dr. Rihani’s lower facelift targets these areas to restore definition and lift, while preserving your natural look.

Your health: Your overall health plays a significant role in whether the procedure is right for you.
That’s why blood work is often part of the process. These tests help us determine if you’re medically fit for surgery before proceeding.

Age range: Everyone ages differently, so the decision to have a lower facelift isn’t about hitting a certain number. It’s about how you feel and what you see in the mirror.
That said, many people who choose a lower facelift are in their mid-40s to 50s when signs of aging in the lower face become more noticeable.

A lower facelift is worth considering if nonsurgical treatments no longer effectively address your concerns. A lower facelift with Dr. Rihani can:

Provide long-lasting, youthful results (10 to 15 years).
Restore sagging skin, jowls, deep wrinkles, and folds without leaving you looking unnatural or overdone.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for a Lower Facelift?

A lower facelift can work wonders for you if you want a more youthful look. Unfortunately, this procedure is not the right fit for everyone.

There are a few factors that might make someone less ideal for surgery, including:

Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as a clotting disorder, can affect how your body heals and may affect the outcome of your facelift surgery.
Likewise, uncontrolled chronic issues, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, can increase the risks associated with surgery and recovery.

Unrealistic Expectations
People hoping for a total transformation or perfect results may not be ideal candidates for a lower facelift.
A facelift procedure won’t stop aging, remove every wrinkle, or drastically change your features.
If you’re dealing with body dysmorphia or have expectations that no surgery can realistically meet, stepping back from the operating table might be the healthiest move.

Severe Skin Laxity
Lower facelifts work best for treating mild jowling and minimal neck looseness.
Patients with severe skin laxity, particularly in the neck, may require a full facelift or a neck lift in conjunction with a lower facelift.

Other Medical Risks
- Frequent weight changes or unstable weight can affect the longevity of the outcome.
- Substance abuse, such as alcohol or drug misuse, can also increase surgical risks and interfere with healing.

Facelifts aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s a good thing. The proper procedure should fit your needs, goals, and features, rather than following a trend.

At the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute, patient safety comes first.

Dr. Rihani will take the time to understand your full health picture and help you decide what’s safest and most effective for you.

He’ll be honest if he feels a facelift isn’t the right choice or won’t deliver natural, satisfying results.

Step-by-Step: How Dr. Jordan Rihani Performs a Lower Facelift at the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute

If you’re considering a lower facelift, you’re likely not interested in vague promises or generic explanations.

You want to understand what really happens, so that you can feel confident in your decision, from your first visit to our clinic to the day you look in the mirror and finally see yourself again.

At the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute, we believe in transparency, care, and personalized attention.

While every facelift is tailored to your unique features and goals, here’s a clear, straightforward look at what to expect during your lower facelift procedure:

Pre-Op Evaluation and Planning
Your lower facelift journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Rihani. He’ll examine your skin, bone structure, and the way your face has aged, then create a surgical plan for you.
The goal is clear: bring back what time has taken, without changing what makes you you.
Administering Anesthesia
Facelifts are done using one of three anesthesia types, depending on the procedure and needs of the patient:
1. General anesthesia: You’re fully asleep and closely monitored the entire time.
2. IV sedation with local anesthetic: You’re in a relaxed state (twilight sleep) while the surgical area is numbed.
3. Local anesthetic only: You stay awake while just the treatment area is numbed.
  Dr. Rihani typically recommends general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
  General anesthesia allows you to sleep through the operation while protecting your airway.
Hidden Incision
Dr. Rihani employs a hidden incision technique that places cuts in natural folds around the front of the ear, making scars virtually undetectable.
This incision placement also lets patients heal smoothly.
SMAS Tightening and Deep-plane Facelift Technique
This phase is the core of Dr. Rihani’s lower facelift procedure. Dr. Rihani utilizes a deep-plane facelift technique to lift and reposition the SMAS layer, returning it to its original position.
Instead of pulling the skin tight, he restores the foundation underneath, bringing back jawline and lower-face definition without a stretched or artificial look.
If needed, he’ll also remove excess skin and fat that has been weighing down your natural contours.
Closing the Incisions
Once the lifting and repositioning are complete, Dr. Rihani closes the incisions using meticulous techniques to support smooth healing and minimal scarring.
A dressing is then placed over your face to protect the area and support your recovery. This is usually removed the very next day during your follow-up visit.
Dr. Rihani’s lower facelift is grounded in precision and deep expertise.

As a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in facial procedures, he understands the delicate balance between structure and expression.

If you want natural results from someone who knows both the art and science of facial rejuvenation, you can feel confident that you’re in steady, experienced hands.

How Long Does the Lower Facelift Procedure Take?

The entire lower facelift procedure generally lasts between three and six hours.

That said, the exact length of your surgery can vary depending on a few key factors, including:

Facial Structure
Your anatomy, skin laxity, and the extent of correction needed all factor into the approach and results.

Surgeon’s Technique
The length of a lower facelift depends on the technique used. For instance, Dr. Rihani’s approach (deep-plane facelift and hidden incision techniques) may take several hours.

Additional Procedures
Combining your lower facelift with complementary procedures, such as a neck lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or fat grafting, will naturally extend the overall surgical duration.

Patient-Specific Factors
Each patient’s unique anatomy may increase complexity, requiring additional surgical time to achieve optimal, natural-looking results.

What Types of Anesthesia Are Used During a Lower Facelift?

Patients often inquire about anesthesia options for lower facelifts, specifically, whether local anesthesia or IV (intravenous) sedation can be used as an alternative to general anesthesia.

While all three anesthesia options are possible, Dr. Rihani typically recommends general anesthesia for one vital reason: to protect your airway.

Under IV sedation, your muscles, including those that keep your airway open, relax.

This situation is similar to what happens when you fall asleep and start snoring. Your tongue can fall back and partially block airflow.

During surgery, especially with swelling or bleeding near the neck, that risk increases.

With general anesthesia, your airway stays secure. A breathing tube is placed, and your breathing is closely monitored throughout the procedure, regardless of its duration (typically four to six hours for a facelift).

Many people assume IV sedation means less anesthesia, but that’s not always true. The amount used is often similar to that of general anesthesia, but with less control over your airway.

Regarding risks, while general anesthesia does carry a slightly higher risk of blood clots, this is rare in healthy facelift patients. Because most are up and moving the same day, the overall risk stays low.

Overall, Dr. Rihani’s priority is your safety and long-term outcome. That’s why he recommends general anesthesia for most facelift procedures.

How Much Does a Lower Facelift Cost in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Southlake?

While pricing can vary, a deep-plane facelift, including lower facelift, with Dr. Rihani in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Southlake areas generally costs between $25,000 and $50,000 (oftentimes excluding anesthesia and OR fees).

Factors that influence cost include:

Surgeon’s qualifications
Surgeons with advanced training, such as double board certification, specialization in facial procedures, and a track record of consistently strong patient outcomes, may charge more. But that added investment often comes with significant benefits.

Surgical facility and anesthesia
A fully accredited surgical facility with experienced staff ensures a safe and controlled environment.
The operating room and anesthesia (sedation vs. general anesthesia) make up a significant portion of the total cost.

Procedure complexity
Using advanced techniques (such as deep-plane with hidden incision) may require more time and expertise.
Combining your facelift with other procedures, like neck lifts or eyelid surgery, can also extend the surgical time and influence the overall cost.

Post-op care and follow-up
Quality aftercare is essential for healing and lasting results.
Costs may include post-surgical garments, follow-up appointments, and any minor touch-ups or revisions.

A lower facelift can effectively address facial aging, but for some, the cost can be a real obstacle.

It’s not uncommon for patients to hold off on deciding because of price. Some may delay the decision, settle for less effective treatments, or never move forward at all.

At the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute, we believe confidence shouldn’t be out of reach. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans through trusted financing partners, such as CareCredit, making the cost more manageable.

If affordability is a concern, you’re not alone—and we’re here to help.

Our team can guide you through your financing options, address your questions, and help you find a plan that suits your budget.

Does Insurance Cover Lower Facelift Surgery?

Lower facelift surgery may be considered a cosmetic procedure. As such, it’s typically not covered by insurance.

That said, some insurance programs may cover your facelift procedure if you require it to correct a functional problem caused by a physiological defect or to address a condition resulting from an injury.

If you need assistance with insurance, our in-house coordinators are available to guide you. They’ll communicate with your provider and help you pursue any coverage you may qualify for.

What Is the Recovery Process After a Lower Facelift?

Recovery isn’t the same for everyone. Some patients bounce back faster. Others take a little longer.

That said, understanding what the recovery process typically entails will help you set realistic expectations after surgery.

Recovery after a lower facelift is typically straightforward, especially if you’re under the care of a skilled facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Jordan Rihani.

Here’s what to expect during your recovery period:

First 24 hours

For the first 24 hours, you’ll wear a head wrap and have two small drains in place to manage swelling. They will be removed the very next day.

You may experience some tightness the first night. But don’t worry, it’s normal. And if you feel any discomfort, it’s usually manageable with prescription pain meds.

First 72 hours

In the first few days after surgery, expect swelling to build. The swelling usually peaks around day three, then gradually begins to ease off.

The week after surgery

Around the one-week mark, the sutures are removed. By then, most bruising has started to fade.

You might still see some purple spots, but you’ll also notice hints of green or yellow, a clear sign your body’s doing its job and the bruises are starting to fade.

Two weeks after surgery

By the two-week mark, bruising has usually faded significantly. Approximately 80% of patients recover quickly, but if you know you are a “bruiser,” expect those bruises to last for two to three weeks.

Most patients are starting to feel better and notice their swelling improving. Gentle lymphatic massage helps reduce swelling after surgery.

Two months after surgery

The incisions may still be slightly red, but they have healed. There is still some swelling (about 10%), but patients look normal, and they are enjoying their results at this point.

A facelift corrects sagging and restores contour in the lower face and neck, but it doesn’t fix everything. It won’t smooth fine lines, improve skin texture, or restore volume in certain areas.

Dr. Rihani may offer nonsurgical treatments, such as Botox and fillers, to address these issues and enhance the overall outcome.

In fact, some patients return to him for these treatments after undergoing a facelift to maintain and refine their rejuvenated appearance.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Lower Facelift?

Many patients take about two weeks off from work. Those with remote jobs sometimes return after a week, keeping their cameras off during video calls.

If your work involves being in front of people, such as teaching, real estate, or sales, consider allowing three weeks in case the bruising lasts longer.

With proper care and a realistic timeline, you can return to your routine in just a few weeks. Below is a guide on what to avoid, when to ease back in, and how to promote faster healing:

First 24 hours

Many of our patients find they sleep best slightly propped up.
By the next day, once the wrap and drains are removed, you’ll be cleared to shower and begin easing into recovery.

Two weeks post-surgery

Driving is restricted for the first two weeks. After that, most patients can safely get back behind the wheel.

Four to six weeks post-surgery

Continue sleeping with your head elevated to reduce the chances of swelling and promote better circulation.

Although light activities are okay, anything that requires fast head turning (such as tennis or golf) or neck straining (like squat lifts) is still off-limits.

These activities can put unwanted strain on healing sutures and incisions.

You may receive lymphatic massage treatments to help alleviate pockets of swelling.

Two months post-surgery

Patients can resume normal activity two months after surgery. This includes weightlifting, running, tennis, and golf.

In general, here are the things to avoid following your facelift to help ensure smooth recovery:

Smoking: Smoking can slow the healing process. It can also raise your risk of complications, prolonging recovery time unnecessarily.

Direct sun exposure: Too much direct sunlight can slow down the healing process.

To protect your skin and avoid setbacks, stay out of strong sunlight, especially midday.

If you go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and use broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield your healing skin.

Non-prescribed medication: Avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, unless your surgeon prescribes them. These meds can increase bleeding and interfere with healing.

Recovery looks different for everyone, but closely following your post-op instructions can help you heal faster and see results sooner.

If you have any questions or concerns during your lower facelift recovery, you can always ask for Dr. Rihani’s guidance.

He’ll support you every step of the way and will respond promptly to ensure your healing stays on track.

Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care throughout your journey.

What Are Common Side Effects During Lower Facelift Recovery?

The thought of restoring your skin’s firmness and glow can be exciting, but it’s essential to remember that a facelift, like any surgery, comes with potential side effects.

Here are common temporary side effects after a lower facelift:

Bruising and Swelling
Swelling typically peaks within the first few days and gradually subsides over the following weeks.
Visible bruising usually resolves within three to four weeks.

Numbness
While rare, nerve damage can occur during facelift surgery. Some patients may also experience temporary numbness in the facial area.
An experienced surgeon like Dr. Rihani can minimize the risk of nerve damage.
His precise technique and detailed knowledge of facial anatomy help prevent problems such as overstretching, compression, or improper cauterization.

Mild to Moderate Pain or Discomfort
Day one is typically when patients need pain medication to manage post-surgery discomfort.
After four to six days, most no longer need to use prescription pain medications.

Light Drainage from Incisions:
After your lower facelift, you may experience drainage from the incisions.
Surgeons usually remove the drainage tube the day after surgery. They will likely apply antibiotic ointment to the incisions and place fresh bandages on your face.

How Long Do the Results of a Lower Facelift Last?

A lower facelift isn’t a quick fix, but a long-term investment in your appearance and overall well-being.

With Dr. Rihani’s proven techniques, most patients enjoy results that last 10 to 15 years.

Several factors can influence how long your refreshed look holds up:

Age at the time of surgery and skin quality: Younger patients tend to achieve longer-lasting results because their skin has better elasticity.

Lifestyle choices: Smoking, too much sun exposure, and poor nutrition can all accelerate skin aging and reduce the longevity of your lower facelift results.

Weight loss: The most common reason patients undergo another surgery is weight loss.

Those who experience significant weight loss, or even a loss of 10 to 20 pounds, may be left with extra skin.

If you’re planning to lose weight, Dr. Rihani always recommends doing it before your facelift procedure.

Surgical outcomes are permanent. Once excess skin is removed, it doesn’t grow back. The repositioned tissues are set in their new place and will heal there permanently.

But let’s be honest: Time keeps ticking. You’ll still age naturally. The beauty of a lower facelift is that it allows you to have a face that better reflects how you feel on the inside.

What Are the Risks Associated With Lower Facelift Surgery?

Undergoing a lower facelift is generally safe when performed by a specialist like Dr. Rihani. That said, like any surgical procedure, it does carry some risks, including:

Hematoma: An accumulation of blood under the skin (hematoma) may require surgical drainage

Scarring: Small scars are expected, but with Dr. Rihani’s techniques and incision placement, they heal very well.

Nerve injury: While facial nerve injury is rare, it can happen. Dr. Rihani also notes that some temporary changes in skin sensation are normal after surgery.

Hair loss around incisions: Some patients may experience temporary hair loss in the areas surrounding the incisions.
If the hair doesn’t grow back, surgery can restore it by transplanting skin with hair follicles.

Skin loss: In rare cases, patients experience skin loss, which may require wound healing management.

Infection: As with any surgery, a lower facelift carries the risk of infection.

As an award–winning, double board-certified specialist, Dr. Rihani has extensive familiarity with facial anatomy.

Through his surgical precision, meticulous approach, and patient-focused care, he can minimize post-surgery risks.

Choosing Dr. Rihani for your lower facelift means entrusting your care to a surgeon with the specialized skill to deliver safer care, more natural-looking results, and long-term outcomes.

Enhancing Your Lower Facelift Results: Combining Procedures for Optimal Facial Rejuvenation

Pairing other procedures with a lower facelift can significantly enhance overall results, tackle multiple signs of aging simultaneously, and create a more balanced appearance across the face:

Neck Lift and Neck Liposuction
The lower face and neck tend to age as a unit. Jowls, neck bands, and sagging skin often show up together.
Pairing a neck lift or neck liposuction with a lower facelift treats all these areas, creating a more harmonious facial appearance.

Chin Augmentation
Adding volume to a weak or recessed chin through a dermal filler can sharpen the jawline and improve overall facial balance.
When done alongside a lower facelift, chin enhancement helps create more defined contours, enhances profile harmony, and boosts the overall result.

Injectable Fillers and Fat Grafting
Aging isn’t just about sagging, but also means losing volume in areas like the jawline and chin.
Fat transfer may be combined with a facelift to provide comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Fat is extracted from other body parts and reinjected to soften hollow spots and restore contour.
The results are long-lasting and blend well with facelift improvements.
Injectable fillers can add volume to targeted areas, including the cheeks, lips, and deep folds.

Laser and Skin Resurfacing
A facelift lifts sagging skin and deeper tissues but doesn’t address surface issues like texture, pigmentation, or fine lines.
To improve skin quality, treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing can be added. It helps fade age spots, smooth fine wrinkles, and even out skin tone.

How Do I Know if I Need a Lower Facelift or a Neck Lift?

It often feels like it happens overnight. One day, your jawline looks sharp and defined, and the next, the skin from your chin to your chest seems looser.

The truth is, time, genetics, and gravity all play a role in how our faces age. Unfortunately, no amount of creams, facial workouts, or jawline gadgets can truly tighten sagging skin.

The good news? Two proven surgical options can restore definition: the lower facelift and the neck lift. Both procedures target jowls and loose skin, but they work in different ways.

Here’s a clear breakdown of each procedure, comparing the neck lift and the lower facelift, to help you choose the one that fits your needs:

Lower Facelift
A lower facelift, also known as a cheek lift, is typically done through incisions placed in front of the ears. This procedure helps define the jawline and reduce the appearance of jowls.
Most surgeons today use techniques that lift the SMAS, a deep layer of muscle and fat beneath the skin.
Dr. Rihani repositions the SMAS to restore it to its original position, which also softens lines such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

Neck Lift
A neck lift works much like a lower facelift but focuses on improving the neck area.
To remove excess neck skin, the incisions usually extend farther behind the ear and into the hairline.
The SMAS layer is lifted similarly but continues lower to include the platysma muscle (superficial muscle in the neck).
If you have visible neck bands, Dr. Rihani can treat them through a small incision under the chin during the same procedure.
A neck lift is especially effective for tightening loose skin and reducing excess fat, creating a sharper, more defined profile, especially from the side.

When it comes to facial rejuvenation, balance is everything. That’s why Dr. Rihani often recommends combining a lower facelift with a neck lift to achieve smooth, natural-looking results.

During your consultation, Dr. Rihani will look closely at the overall structure of your lower face and neck.

If you’re showing early jowling with little to no neck sagging, a lower facelift alone may be the best option.

But neck laxity often comes with sagging in the lower face, which is why pure necklifts are less common.

There’s no set age for the procedure. That said, many candidates fall somewhere between their mid-40s and mid-50s range, although it can vary depending on each person’s individual aging process.

One simple visual check Dr. Rihani often uses: If you lift your neck skin and see puckering near the jawline, it means the lower face likely needs correction, too.

To smooth this area properly, he may extend the incisions slightly into the cheek to achieve a more refined, seamless look.

Dr. Rihani’s goal is to enhance your natural features and create results that feel like a refreshed version of you. Subtle, balanced, and completely your own.

How to Prepare for Your Lower Facelift Consultation at the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute

Getting the most out of your lower facelift consultation starts with good preparation.

Dr. Jordan Rihani tailors each plan with safety and precision in mind, so the more details you share, the better your outcome.

Here’s how to set yourself up for a smooth and productive visit:

During your consultation, you’ll undergo a comprehensive assessment.
Dr. Rihani will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and have a brief check-in to ensure your expectations align with what the surgery can realistically offer.
Make sure to let him know if:
- You’re pregnant or might be pregnant.
- You’re taking any medications, supplements, or herbal products, including over-the-counter meds.

Get the required lab work. Pre-surgical lab tests, such as blood count review, may be necessary to confirm that you’re healthy enough for surgery.
Dr. Rihani will provide a list of medications and supplements to stop before surgery, especially anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and aspirin, which can raise the risk of bleeding. Follow his instructions carefully.
Before your consultation, consider what you hope to achieve with a facelift. Dr. Rihani will listen to your goals and explain what the procedure can realistically achieve for you.
While a lower facelift can restore youthful contours, it won’t remove fine wrinkles or facial asymmetry.
Setting clear, realistic expectations is an essential part of planning your treatment.

Expect a thorough assessment of your facial features, skin quality, bone structure, and fat distribution. Photographs may be taken from various angles for planning purposes.
The night before surgery, wash your hair and clean your body thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
If you prefer, turn it into a small moment of self-care. You can add drops of essential oil to a warm bath to help you relax.

In the days leading up to your procedure, drink plenty of water. Aim for at least 60 ounces daily.
Staying hydrated helps your body handle anesthesia better and supports a smoother surgical experience overall.

If you smoke, quit at least two weeks before surgery and stay smoke-free for two weeks afterward. Smoking can slow healing and impact your final results.
Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery and stay with you the night after your surgery.

You’ll have multiple chances to speak with Dr. Rihani before your surgery, including a dedicated consultation visit. Use this time to ask about the procedure, recovery, risks, or costs so you feel fully informed.

Here are some questions to consider asking Dr. Rihani before your appointment:

Surgeon’s Qualifications

What board certifications do you hold?
How many years have you been performing lower facelifts?
Is your surgical facility accredited or licensed by the state?

Expectations

Based on my anatomy and goals, am I a good candidate for a lower facelift?
What kind of results should I realistically expect for my face and skin type?
What steps should I take before and after surgery to ensure the best outcome?

Surgical Details

Where will you perform my lower facelift, and what does the procedure involve?
Which facelift technique do you recommend for me?
Will a lower facelift address my jawline, jowls, and neck, or would you suggest any additional procedures?

Recovery and Risks

What’s the usual recovery time after a lower facelift?
Will I need help during the recovery period?
What risks or complications should I be aware of?
If any issues arise, how are they addressed?

Long-Term Outlook

How can I expect my results to evolve as I age?
If I’m unhappy with the results, what options would I have for revision or enhancement?
Can I see before-and-after photos of your patients with similar features or concerns?

Schedule Your Complimentary Lower Facelift Consultation Today at Our Multiple Texas Locations

Ready to face life with newfound confidence?

Book your free consultation with Dr. Jordan Rihani at the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute.

With two offices across Texas, Dr. Rihani, a Fort Worth native and specialist in achieving natural-looking results, will help you create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals.

Call (817) 328-8380 or (817) 529-3232, or complete our digital contact form to schedule a consultation now.

You can also drive by our offices here:

Southlake Office
521 W. Southlake Blvd #175
Southlake, TX 76092

Fort Worth Office
800 8th Ave #400
Fort Worth, TX 76104