What is a Refresher Face Lift?

Question

Can you explain to me what a Refresher Face Lift is? How does it differ from a regular Facelift? Thanks.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

The goal of a facelift is for the face to look younger and refreshed.  There are many names for different types of facelifts:  the most important factor is the surgeon.

Peter Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, this is a great question! Unfortunately, there is a lot of variation in facelift terminology and trademarked names. This is very confusing for patients. It is also confusing for surgeons, as we are not entirely consistent as a specialty in when we refer to facelift procedures. The facelift procedure is the definitive procedure in facial rejuvenation. It usually involves involves some degree of elevation of the skin in front of and behind the ear and some form of tightening of the underlying support layer, the SMAS. There are also more limited incision facelifts of various types, commonly referred to as “mini-lifts”. Theoretically, these procedures may require less recovery as less tissue is manipulated. The downside is that they can leave your face looking “unfinished”. If you require a neck lift, you also have aging changes in your mid-face that may benefit from surgery to achieve balance. I any case, I don’t think that the recovery is necessarily significantly better than with a full face. It is possible to be out and about in public in a week or so after a facelift. I would consult with an experienced facelift surgeon to go over the options.

Rod J. Rohrich, MD · Answer

A “Refresher” facelift is more of a marketing term. You are either going to have a facelift or not. Many of these are marketing terms and gimmicks and have no correlation to operative procedures.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

There are many marketing names of face lifts. Most are mini lifts that produce mini results. See an experienced facelift surgeon to guide you through deciding which is best for YOU.  This is your face.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Dear OliveinCT
Refresher Face Lift does not refer to a specific facelift technique.  It is a type of proprietary name used to catch the imagination of the consumer in marketing materials. 
So, surgeons using this name combine standard facelift methods with face transfer at the time of surgery a means to distinguish their service in the mind of the consumer.  Facelift continues to be the most important and powerful cosmetic surgery procedure we perform. 
In selecting a facelift surgeon the it is not enough to find a board certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon.  You need some one with appropriate credentials and fellowship training in cosmetic surgery.  Review the surgeons before and after pictures.  If you don't see results that appeal to you, don't assume that your results will be any better.  It pays to do your homework.
Dr. Steinsapir

What is a Refresher Face Lift?

Answers (8)

Answer: This name is only a marketing name.

Answer: This name is only a marketing name.

Answer: Refresher Face Lift is a marketing name.

Answer: Refresher Face Lift is a marketing name.

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What is a Refresher Face Lift?

Answers (8)

Answer: This name is only a marketing name.

Answer: This name is only a marketing name.

Answer: Refresher Face Lift is a marketing name.

Answer: Refresher Face Lift is a marketing name.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.