Why would a lower face lift cost $30,000?

Cost factors vary significantly for a number of good reasons: Prices vary greatly because the surgery itself encompasses a wide range of techniques that can be performed to different extents. My recommendation is to first find the most qualified surgeons where you want the surgery performed that are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery you trust, then compare prices between them. See the below link on suggestions on how to find the most qualified plastic surgeon for your procedure. General Factors that influence the price of plastic surgery include:
1. Location - Will it be performed in a hospital with an overnight stay, an independent out- patient facility or a doctor’s office? Geographical location also has a significant influence. RealSelf has average charges for most areas of the USA.
2. Type of Anesthesia - local, IV sedation or General Anesthesia? Will a board certified anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist, or an RN be used?            3. Experience and training of your surgeon. The best and longest trained is most often a plastic surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery           4. Length and Complexity of Surgery - how difficult will your surgery be and how long it will take, etc. Will other complementary procedures also be also performed during the same surgery?

I am shocked also if it is only a facelift. Obvious answer is get other consultations and I think you could find very competent surgeons closer to home. 

I know of  no facial plastic or plastic surgeons that charge $30,000 for a facelift. The cost seems exorbitant to me. I suppose if the doctor is the most sought after surgeon in a large market, that is possible. But be aware you can certainly get an excellent operation elsewhere at a much lower cost. If I were you, I'd keep looking best of luck.