Facelift

Dr. Foulad performs an advanced technique known as the Extended Deep Plane Facelift—one of the most effective options for achieving natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation. This procedure involves lifting the deeper facial tissues beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer, allowing for a true repositioning of sagging structures rather than simply pulling the skin tight.

A key advantage of this method is the ability to lift the tissues with little to no tension. By thoroughly releasing the underlying structures, Dr. Foulad can reposition the sagging tissues of the face in a more youthful and natural direction—primarily vertically—while avoiding the telltale signs of a facelift, such as tightness around the mouth, visible tension lines, pixie ears, or an overly pulled appearance.

This technique also results in less tension on the incision sites, which helps reduce the risk of wide or visible scars. Dr. Foulad is known for his meticulous attention to detail, taking extra time to carefully suture the incisions for the best possible aesthetic outcome.

Patients frequently share how natural their results appear—refreshed and more youthful, yet still completely true to themselves. Dr. Foulad’s technique is designed to preserve each individual’s unique facial identity and avoid over-correction. 

A Neck Lift is often performed with a facelift in order to lift the sagging tissues of the face and neck as a single unit. A neck lift improves the contour of the neck and treats sagging and loose skin. To perform a neck lift, an incision is created under the chin and/or behind the ears. Through these incisions, the plastysma muscle can be tightened. Any excess, sagging skin is also trimmed and removed. Muscle lifting techniques must also be implemented. This approach delivers results that appear much more natural and remain sustainable over time. A Deep Neck Lift involves contouring the structures under the platysma muscle, such as by reducing the subplatysmal fat, digastric muscles, and submandibular glands. To restore an optimal appearance of the neck, it is typically very important that the outer skin on the neck is not solely tightened. A deep neck lift is the most common type of neck lift that Dr. Foulad performs.

As the name implies, Skin-Only Facelift involves surgery limited to the skin. Excess skin is removed, but the deeper tissues are not treated. Dr. Foulad does not recommend this type of technique. This is because the results do not last long and can be associated with an unnatural and “tight” appearance, as well as increased risk for more visible scars.

A SMAS Facelift not only removes excess skin, but also tightens the SMAS layer. SMAS stands for Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System, and this layer of tissue is located between the skin and the underlying muscles of the face. A SMAS facelift tightens the SMAS layer, which helps pull up the sagging tissues of the face. Compared to only removing excess skin, tightening the SMAS layer results in improved and longer lasting results. However, due to the significant tension required in this approach—even though it is primarily limited to the SMAS layer—Dr. Foulad generally avoids this technique and prefers techniques that minimize tension.

Candidates for facelift and neck lift surgery include women or men who are experiencing signs of sagging and loose skin at the region of the mid face, lower face, and neck. Ideal patients are in good overall health and have skin that has retained some flexibility and elasticity. It is important that patients do not smoke or use nicotine products before and after the procedure. The typical age of our patients undergoing face lifting is 40 to 70 years old, however there is no standard age range. Candidates for the procedure are based on indications, which includes jowls, sagging of the cheeks, platysma banding, and excess skin. Dr. Foulad will perform a thorough evaluation to help you decide which surgery or alternative treatment would best meet your goals.

In preparation for undergoing facelift and neck lift surgery, medical evaluation by your primary care provider is required to ensure that you are healthy and optimized for the procedure. Certain medications and supplements might have to be stopped a specific time period prior to the procedure to reduce certain risks. It is important that you do not not smoke or use nicotine products 1-2 months prior to your procedure. You will be provided more comprehensive pre-operative instructions specific to your individual case.

We are conveniently located to serve Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, & Los Angeles. However, we are available to help with coordinating your stay if you are an Out-of-Town Patient.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort after surgery. For those who do have more significant pain, Dr. Foulad provides a personalized and optimized pain management plan to ensure your comfort throughout the recovery process. In many cases, sleeping with your head and back elevated for the first week is recommended to help minimize swelling.

Swelling and bruising tend to peak around day 3 to 4. By the two-week mark, most of this has subsided enough for patients to comfortably return to work and social activities. Makeup can typically be applied at this point to help conceal any residual bruising, if desired.

Patients often feel very pleased with their results between two and four weeks. While there is already significant improvement at this time, it’s important to understand that full healing continues over the following months as micro-swelling gradually resolves.

For more detailed guidance, please review our general post-operative care instructions, which cover important recommendations for a smooth recovery.

If you’re ready to explore how a facelift can help you achieve natural and long-lasting rejuvenation, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Foulad. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on the best approach for your needs. Contact us today.