Overview
A facelift — formally called a rhytidectomy — addresses the fundamental structural changes that occur as the face ages: the loosening of skin and deeper facial tissues, jowling along the jawline, and banding in the neck. Dr. Fern has refined his facelift technique over 27 years of practice, consistently producing results that look refreshed and natural rather than pulled or overdone. Patients from Greenwich and Manhattan travel specifically for his reputation for long-lasting, harmonious outcomes.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for facelift typically present with one or more of the following:
- Visible jowling or loss of jawline definition
- Deep nasolabial folds that bother you
- Loose or hanging skin in the neck
- Overall facial laxity inconsistent with how you feel
- Good general health and realistic expectations
- Non-smoker or committed to quitting before surgery
The Procedure
Dr. Fern's approach to facelift proceeds through the following steps:
- Consultation and 3D imaging to map your facial anatomy and define goals
- Incisions placed discreetly within the hairline and around the ears
- Deep plane SMAS manipulation restores structural lift — not just skin tension
- Neck work (platysmaplasty) addresses banding and excess fat as needed
- Skin re-draped and trimmed conservatively for a natural, rested appearance
- Fine sutures closed; light dressings applied for the first 48 hours
Recovery
Most patients experience swelling and bruising for the first 7–10 days. By day 14, the majority return to social activities. Final results continue to refine over 3–6 months as swelling fully resolves. Dr. Fern's team maintains close contact throughout recovery at both the Greenwich and Manhattan offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do facelift results last?
Most patients enjoy their results for 10–15 years. A facelift doesn't stop aging, but it resets the clock significantly. Many patients choose a secondary procedure a decade later to maintain their appearance.
Is general anesthesia required?
Not always. For isolated facelifts, Dr. Fern frequently performs surgery under IV sedation with local anesthesia — which carries a faster recovery and fewer risks than general anesthesia.
Will my face look 'done'?
Only if it's done incorrectly. Dr. Fern's deep plane technique repositions tissue structurally, not just tightens skin. The result is a face that looks like you — but rested, defined, and several years younger.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes — and it often makes sense to do so. Brow lift, eyelid surgery, and fat transfer are commonly combined with a facelift to address the full picture at once, with a single recovery period.