Face Lift Costs: Compare Costs Carefully

You will find that the fees quoted for a face lift vary greatly.  When comparing fees try to compare "apples to apples".  The following can be helpful:

• Compare the same type of procedure.  In most instances a "face lift" refers to correcting changes associated with aging in the cheeks and neck.  The eye lid and brow regions are usually considered separate areas. Most plastic surgeons use a technique where the underlying tissue, (the SMAS), is supported, the skin is carefully re draped, and the excess skin is trimmed away.  This type of face lift can provide natural results that typically last 7-10 years. Recently, many smaller, less extensive procedures have been promoted. Often placed in the "mini lift" category, they tend to be smaller procedures.  They are often quicker, provide less support of the deeper tissues and have a shorter recovery time, but the results may not last as long. 
• Are other procedures being combined with the face lift? Combining the face lift with eye lid surgery, laser or fillers will add to the cost of the procedure.
• Note the region of the country.  Fees vary depending upon location.  New York and Los Angeles have much higher fees than other regions of the country.
• Where is the surgery being performed?  For safety reasons, the surgery should be performed in an accredited surgical facility such an an outpatient surgery center or hospital.  Hospital fees are higher than outpatient surgery centers especially if an overnight stay is included.
• What type of anesthesia will be used?  Many of these procedures can be performed under IV sedation.  General anesthesia is more expensive.
• The skill and reputation of the surgeon is important.  This is harder to quantify, but check out your doctor.  Make sure he or she has a good reputation, and performs this surgery frequently, safely and with good results.  Your personal physician often can tell you who is qualified and respected in your local medical community.  Other satisfied patients can also be good referrals.

 The term Facelift usually describes a lifting procedure of the Cheeks and Neck including tightening the covering of the muscle layer called the SMAS to improve and prolong the result.  It usually does not include the forehead lift/brow lift , eyelid surgery(Blepharoplasty), dermal fillers, laser, or fat grafting. 

If you notice improvement in the mirror when lifting the cheeks with your fingers and the neck with your thumbs, this is probably what you need.

The good news is today's Facelift should give a dramatic result and be natural in appearance because of improvements in the technique.

The cost of a Facelift  in my practice in southwest Florida is approximately 8000 dollars which includes the operating room charges  and anesthesia fees.   Remember that when you obtain a quote over the phone, sometimes you hear only the surgeons fee.  Also many patients may require additional procedures like Blepharoplasty for the eyes and fractional CO2 laser or dermal fillers for wrinkles which will increase the costs.

Facelift Quote important Points:

1. Make sure your Facelift  will include correcting the cheek and neck laxity and includes a SMAS lift or plication.
2. Make sure all fees including anesthesia, operating room are part of the final total.
3. Find out how long the quote is valid.  We honor quotes for 90 days.
4. Ask about financing if needed.  Care credit seems to be a good source in my experience.

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