Advanced Facelift Q&A with Dr. Jon Mendelsohn
Explore answers to the most commonly asked questions about facelift surgery, based on Dr. Mendelsohn’s experience performing thousands of facial rejuvenation procedures over the past 25+ years.
Set 1: Curious Beginner
What is a facelift, and how is your approach different from traditional methods?
A facelift lifts and tightens the lower face and neck to address sagging skin and loss of definition. My Advanced Facelift focuses on repositioning the SMAS layer and deep tissues to deliver natural, long-lasting results without the pulled look.
Will I be asleep or awake during the procedure? Does it hurt?
You’ll be awake but relaxed with oral Valium. Most patients find it surprisingly easy. Local anesthesia reduces risks and promotes quicker recovery.
What kind of results should I expect from this facelift? Will I still look like myself?
Absolutely. My goal is to help you look refreshed and youthful—not different. Expect a smoother jawline, lifted neck, and comments that you look well-rested.
Is this a major surgery? How long does it take?
It’s a surgical procedure but takes only 90 minutes. Because it’s done under local anesthesia, recovery is faster and the experience is gentler than you’d expect.
What are the benefits of using local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia?
Local anesthesia means faster recovery, less risk, no grogginess, and minimal bleeding. Most patients go home within hours and feel great post-op.
Will people be able to tell I had a facelift?
No—unless you choose to tell them. My incisions are hidden and results are subtle. You’ll look refreshed, not operated on.
How soon after surgery will I be able to return to work or normal activities?
Most patients return to light activity within 5–10 days. We provide a Medrol dose pack to reduce swelling and clear recovery instructions for a smooth return to life.
What makes your facelift procedure safer than others?
Local anesthesia, meticulous technique, extensive experience, and a fully accredited facility make this a very safe procedure with consistently excellent outcomes.
How long do the results last?
Typically 8 to 15 years. You’ll always look younger than you would have otherwise, and I’ll help you maintain results with non-surgical options as needed.
What are the risks I should know about?
Swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, infection, or scarring are rare but possible. We review everything with you beforehand and guide you through recovery every step of the way.
Set 2: Cautious Explorer
I’ve heard of SMAS facelifts before — how exactly do you handle the SMAS layer?
I reposition and secure the SMAS layer, often releasing deeper attachments for more effective lifting. This deep support is what creates long-lasting, natural results.
I’m worried about looking overdone or pulled — how is that prevented in this procedure?
I never pull the skin. By treating underlying structures and lifting with precision, the skin lays naturally and you look youthful, not stretched.
How does this compare to “mini-lifts” or the Lifestyle Lift?
Mini-lifts typically only tighten skin. My Advanced Facelift addresses deeper tissues, producing more refined and longer-lasting results. It’s comprehensive and superior in both artistry and outcome.
What happens if I’m very nervous during the procedure? How do you manage that?
We give you a calming oral sedative. Most patients feel so relaxed they nap during the procedure. Our entire environment is designed for peace and comfort.
What kind of scarring should I expect and where will the incisions be?
Incisions follow natural creases around the ear and are very well hidden. They fade significantly over time, even for short-haired patients.
Can you walk me through the recovery process day by day?
Yes. Day 1: Rest. Day 2–3: Bruising/swelling begins. Day 4–7: Peak swelling fades. Day 8–10: Sutures removed. Week 2+: Back to makeup and social life. We’re here for you every day.
I’m concerned about privacy. What measures are in place to ensure discretion?
We provide private scheduling, discreet entrances/exits, and strict confidentiality. Your privacy is fully respected throughout your journey.
What makes this a long-lasting procedure compared to other options?
By lifting and supporting the SMAS and releasing ligaments, we reset your facial foundation. This keeps results looking natural and lasting 9–15 years.
Are there patients who aren’t good candidates for this approach?
We evaluate health, healing ability, and goals. Most healthy adults are good candidates. If not, I’ll guide you to safer or more effective alternatives.
How is pain managed after the surgery?
Most patients only need Tylenol. Soreness and tightness are typical, but not true pain. We guide you closely through icing, rest, and wound care to ensure comfort.
Set 3: Informed Decision-Maker
Can you explain in more depth how you support the SMAS layer with absorbable sutures?
I use deep, absorbable sutures to secure the lifted SMAS in gravity-defying vectors. These dissolve gradually while natural scar tissue takes over for long-term support.
What’s the rationale for using local anesthesia with oral sedatives instead of IV sedation or general anesthesia?
Local anesthesia reduces risk, bleeding, and recovery time. With just a Valium, patients are relaxed yet responsive. It’s safer, smoother, and preferred by nearly all my facelift patients.
What’s the average blood loss in this procedure and why is that important?
Blood loss is typically less than 10cc due to epinephrine and precise technique. This minimizes swelling, bruising, and risk of complications like hematomas.
How does the technique for platysma band repair work? Is it always necessary?
I address neck bands when needed through chin or behind-ear incisions. Platysmaplasty restores smooth neck contours but isn’t always required depending on your anatomy.
How are your incision patterns different from traditional facelifts?
My incisions follow natural contours around the ear and avoid large neck incisions. I minimize visible scarring and avoid skin tension for smooth, discreet healing.
Can I request adjustments in surgical planning to target specific areas like jowls or marionette lines?
Absolutely. Every plan is personalized. We target areas like jowls with vector-specific lifts, and can enhance with fat grafting or fillers if needed.
What types of patients or skin conditions might require modifications to the standard approach?
Thin skin, prior surgeries, heavy tissues, or health conditions require customized strategies. I adapt my technique to each patient’s needs and anatomy.
What is the role of epinephrine in the numbing injections, and how does it affect healing?
Epinephrine reduces bleeding and prolongs anesthesia. It lowers post-op bruising and swelling, improving healing time and surgical visibility.
How does your practice ensure post-op patient privacy, especially for high-profile clients?
We offer discreet entry/exit, private scheduling, and strict confidentiality protocols. High-profile patients are treated with exceptional privacy and care.
Can I see before and after results of similar patients who had the Advanced Facelift under local anesthesia?
Yes—during consultation, I’ll show you curated galleries of similar patients. We also have video journeys from real clients that offer even more insight into what to expect.
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