Face Lift Surgery
Facelift surgery, medically known as rhytidectomy, is a specialized form of facial plastic surgery designed to restore definition to the jawline, smooth deep facial folds, and correct sagging skin in the mid and lower face. At Nichols Facial Plastic Surgery in London, Ontario, facelift procedures are tailored to enhance natural structure rather than change your appearance.
As we age, collagen production slows, and the deeper support layers of the face begin to descend. This leads to jowls, deep nasolabial folds, loose neck skin, and loss of contour along the lower face. Rhytidectomy surgery addresses these changes by repositioning underlying tissues, refining excess skin, and restoring youthful balance to the face.
Unlike non-surgical treatments that temporarily soften wrinkles, a properly performed facelift delivers long-lasting structural improvement. Many patients in London, Ontario, choose facelift surgery when fillers and skin treatments are no longer enough to correct skin laxity and facial heaviness.
Every procedure is carefully planned based on facial anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to ensure refined, natural-looking results.
Rhytidectomy Procedure
Rhytidectomy surgery, commonly known as a facelift, is a specialized facial plastic surgery procedure that restores definition to the lower face and jawline. At Nichols Facial Plastic Surgery in London, Ontario, the focus is on repositioning the deeper facial support layers rather than simply tightening skin.
Small incisions are placed within the hairline and around the ears to keep scars discreet. The underlying SMAS layer is lifted and adjusted to correct jowls, deep folds, and sagging. Excess skin is carefully refined to maintain a natural, balanced result.
Recovery & Results
Most patients undergoing facelift surgery in London, Ontario, return to light activities within 10 to 14 days. Swelling and bruising improve over the first few weeks, with continued refinement over several months.
Because rhytidectomy surgery addresses deeper structural tissues, results are long-lasting. While facial plastic surgery does not stop aging, it restores a more youthful foundation that continues to age naturally over time.
Key Facts
Consult: 60 minutes
Procedure: Facelift alone 3 hours. Face and neck lift 4 hours.
Recovery: 2- 4 weeks
Duration of results: 10+ years
Note: Individual results can vary.
Why Choose Dr. Nichols?
Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions when considering rhytidectomy surgery. Dr Nichols is a specialist in facial plastic surgery, focusing exclusively on procedures of the face and neck. This level of specialization allows for precise, natural-looking results tailored to each patient.
Patients seeking facelift surgery in London, Ontario, benefit from a thorough consultation process where goals, facial anatomy, and realistic expectations are carefully reviewed. Every surgical plan is personalized, whether the procedure involves a facelift alone or is combined with blepharoplasty for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Facial plastic surgery requires both technical expertise and aesthetic judgment. Dr Nichols prioritizes structural correction, balanced contour, and long-term harmony rather than over-tightening or artificial results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and repositions facial tissues to reduce sagging, redefine the jawline, and smooth deep folds.
What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift lifts deeper facial support structures rather than tightening skin alone. This approach often produces more natural and longer-lasting results.
What is a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is a less invasive version designed for early signs of sagging. It involves smaller incisions and shorter recovery time compared to a full facelift.
How long does a facelift last?
A facelift typically lasts 10 to 15 years, depending on surgical technique, skin quality, and lifestyle factors.
Modern techniques such as deep plane facelifts reposition deeper facial structures rather than just tightening skin, which provides longer-lasting and more natural results. While aging continues, patients usually maintain a more youthful baseline for many years.
How much does a facelift cost in Canada?
In Canada, facelift surgery generally ranges between $15,000 and $30,000 CAD, depending on:
- Surgical technique used
• Surgeon expertise
• Anesthesia and facility fees
• Whether neck lift or eyelid surgery is combined
Cosmetic facelift procedures are not covered by provincial insurance. A consultation provides an individualized quote based on anatomy and goals.
What is the most natural-looking facelift?
The most natural-looking facelift typically involves repositioning deeper facial tissues rather than pulling the skin tight.
Techniques such as the deep plane facelift or SMAS-based procedures lift underlying support structures, restoring youthful contours without creating a stretched appearance.
Natural results depend heavily on the surgeon’s expertise and conservative tissue handling.
What is the best age to get a facelift?
Most facelift patients are between 45 and 70 years old, when facial laxity becomes more pronounced.
However, the best time is based on anatomy rather than age alone. Patients with early sagging in their 40s may benefit from a mini facelift, while those with more advanced aging may require a more comprehensive approach.
How long is facelift recovery?
• Swelling and bruising peak in the first 1 to 2 weeks
• Most patients return to work in 2 to 3 weeks
• Final results develop over several months
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. It is often combined with:
- Neck lift
- Eyelid surgery
- Brow lift
- Fat grafting
Combination procedures create comprehensive rejuvenation.
Does a facelift fix jowls and neck sagging?
Yes. A facelift combined with neck contouring effectively improves jowls, jawline definition, and loose neck skin.
Is a facelift permanent?
The structural lift is long-lasting, but aging continues. Most patients enjoy results for over a decade.