Is a repeat facelift better before jowling becomes really bad or better to wait until really necessary? (photo)

If you are happy with the way you look, then there is no reason to rush into a facelift revision simply because your surgeon is retiring; I am sure you could find another wonderful facial plastic surgeon to help you when you are ready. That said, you do have significant sagging under your chin and on the neck and it looks like you may have some new jowling as well. While there is no reason to rush, there is no reason to wait, either. If you are bothered by the sagging skin, then I'd at least recommend a necklift with or without a mini lift.
Waiting until your jowls get really bad before lifting them is a bit like waiting until your car is filthy before washing it. Yes, the change will be most dramatic when the car is dirtier, but then you've been driving around in a vehicle for months or years that doesn't look its best. Based on your photo, you are a very attractive woman and there's no reason to delay a procedure that will once again turn back your clock by years. While you are trying to decide, I'd suggest consulting with a few new facial plastic surgeons who are not nearing retirement, so that you have a few options and don't feel rushed by someone else's timetable. I hope this helps.

Thank you for your question and pictures.  This is completely down to patients preference, when it starts to bother you and there is enough skin laxity present then another procedure can be performed.  If it doesn't bother you then WAIT, if it is making you feel self conscious .  All The Best 

Thanks for asking the question.  Based on your images you could benefit from a revision procedure to improve your lower face adn platysmal bands.  Your decision to proceed is a very personal one.  Good luck. 

Dear ChouxbabeThank you for your questions and photos! If you do not like the contour of your neck - you may do a partial lift at this time. Since your last surgery - was 11 years ago- this one should last for a while!With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

you appear to need the most work in the neck area. This can be done with or without including facelift. The timing is ultimately up to you, and you should enjoy another 10 years of a nice result. If you are pleased with your surgeon and worried he may retire, then visit with him to develop the best plan for your situation.  Best regards. 

Thanks very much for posting your question and photographsAt the end of the day, it is a very personal choice regarding when to consider a secondary facelift. There is no right or wrong about the timing.I would suggest getting in touch with your original surgeon to discuss your thoughts and concerns with him and take things from thereGood luck

The timing is a very personal choice.  You must keep in mind that the revision would not only improve the jowl region but also the neck and midface.  Some patients also like the benefit of not undergoing such a huge transformation and proceed earlier with a secondary procedure.  

Your pictures show some laxity of skin in your upper neck under your chin.  It would be possible to have surgery to improve this.  The timing of having a repeat facelift is really up to the individual.  If you have the surgery now, you should see improvement.  If you wait another year, I do not think that your current appearance would drastically change, so I would just try and schedule the procedure whenever is most convenient for you and taking into account your surgeon's potential retirement.  

The decision of your surgery is really in your hands. You cannot agree to a surgery due to time constraints of just because your surgeon is retiring. Surgery is a choice, and it doesn't really mean that you need it. If having this surgery will boost your confidence and self-esteem then go for it, but if you are not really bothered by the skin laxity then don't have one.

chouxbabe,
Thanks for your question and pictures.  Your motivation of having a facelift before your surgeon retires should be secondary to your needs and wants as far as your aesthetics are concerned.  Most patients at your stage after a facelift may have enough skin laxity for a revision facelift, but just because it can be done does not mean that it should be done.  If you feel that the jowls have returned enough to warrant surgery, then another consultation with your surgeon may be helpful, but do not let fear of your surgeon retiring "push" you into getting surgery earlier, as the decision for surgery should be made in the absence of such outside influences.  Good luck!