Best Age for First Facelift?

Thank you for your question. You are absolutely correct. Waiting until facial aging changes are severe will reduce your chances for the best result and starting facial rejuvenation procedures early is best for several reasons:


Facial aging changes start to become noticeable in the late 30's for most people. As these changes progress through the 40's and 50's deep facial lines caused by skin folds and loss of facial volume from fat loss create permanent skin changes that are difficult to correct with a facelift alone. Taking action early, in your 40's or 50's by having a Facelift or Volume enhancement by Fillers or Fat will help prevent these permanent changes.

Generally speaking, people in their 40's and 50's are more healthy with fewer medical issues than people over 60, and younger people are generally better candidates for elective surgery such as a Facelift and recover more easily.

Younger people in their 40's and 50's today are typically more socially active and pursuing careers where looking fit and young, whether it is fair or not, is very important. Correcting facial aging changes in your 40"s or 50's will allow you to enjoy the results for many years at an important time in your life.


When I began my Plastic Surgery practice 30 years ago the average age of my Facelift patients was in the mid 60's. Today the average facelift patient is 50.

The most important factor is not really your age but whether or not you have facial aging changes which can be corrected with a Facelift.

Today there are so many new non surgical options that many facial aging changes can be corrected without the need for a Facelift. Fillers like Restylane, Perlane, Radiesse and Sculptra can plump the cheek and improve Nasal Labial Fold Lines and rejuvenate the mid face. Botox and Dysport can reduce Crow's Feet, Frown lines and Worry Lines to rejuvenate the upper face.

The lower face-Jowls- and Neck are still areas that usually require surgical Facelift and Neck Lift, but these changes tend to occur later than the mid face and upper face aging changes.

Having a Facelift is a very personal decision. It is a decision that you should make  in consultation with an experienced reputable Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. The issue should be whether you have significant facial aging changes that can best be corrected with surgery, and whether you want to have the procedure and whether you are healthy enough to have the procedure. Your age is a secondary factor.

There isn't a definitive "best" age for a facelift as aging varies significantly among individuals. Factors like lifestyle choices such as smoking and sun exposure, as well as genetics, contribute to the aging process. In my practice, it's common to hear patients say they wish they hadn't waited so long. Many individuals opt for a facelift when they first notice signs of facial aging, aiming to achieve subtle, natural enhancements. The goal is to address changes without a drastic alteration in appearance.

If you're contemplating a facelift, there's a reason behind your consideration. To explore your options effectively, I recommend scheduling a consultation with a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon. Connecting with my practice allows you to receive personalized advice and discuss your aspirations, regardless of your age.

If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to me at chopraplasticsurgery.com

That’s a great question! Genetics and your personal lifestyle are the greatest factors in facial aging. Regardless of age, a person with facial skin laxity and volume loss may be a good candidate for a facelift. Some people prefer to have even mild aging changes treated surgically or non-surgically, starting in their 30s or 40s, while others wait until their 50s or later. The sooner you begin your facial rejuvenation journey, the better. In your youth, skincare is a priority. Then you may consider nonsurgical options such as fillers or neurotoxins. When you finally decide on surgery, you will have a better result if you’ve been taking care of your skin since your youth. From a medical standpoint, while most patients who have a facelift are in their 50s and 60s, there is no age limit for this procedure. A patient who goes through early menopause or a massive weight loss journey may benefit from a facelift in their early 40s, while a healthy and active 80-year-old may still be a good surgical candidate. Your surgeon will base your personal timetable on your goals, circumstances, and health. As always, I advise patients to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in facial surgery and find someone you connect with and trust. Good Luck!