Facelift

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery designed to reduce visible signs of aging by lifting and tightening sagging facial tissues. At CK Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. K. Charles Kim, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, blends Korean precision and artistry with cutting-edge surgical methods to deliver youthful, natural-looking results.

A facelift can improve:

• Loose, sagging skin around the jawline or neck
• Deep folds between the nose and mouth
• Drooping cheeks or loss of midface volume
• Wrinkles and fine lines around the lower face

Why Choose a Facelift at CK Plastic Surgery?

Patients choose CK Plastic Surgery for its personalized approach, advanced surgical precision, and natural enhancement philosophy. Dr. Kim has trained at world-renowned institutions in Beverly Hills, Honolulu, and Seoul, making him one of Los Angeles’s most trusted facelift specialists.

Why people prefer CK Plastic Surgery for facelift surgery:

• Expert in SMAS and deep-plane facelift techniques
• Focus on natural, refreshed results — never “overdone”
• Safe, modern operating environment with advanced anesthesia
• Personalized surgical plans for every patient’s facial structure
• Culturally attuned care from a Korean-American plastic surgeon

Benefits of a Facelift

• Restores youthful contours of the face and neck
• Tightens sagging skin and smooths deep folds
• Reduces jowls and drooping cheeks
• Improves confidence and self-image
• Long-lasting, natural-appearing results

Who Should Avoid a Facelift

A facelift may not be suitable for:

• Individuals with serious medical conditions that affect healing
• Active smokers or those unwilling to stop nicotine use
• Patients with unrealistic expectations of surgical results
• Those seeking instant results without recovery time

Ideal Candidates

You may be an ideal candidate if you:

• Are in good overall health
• Have noticeable facial sagging, jowls, or deep creases
• Wish to achieve long-term facial rejuvenation
• Desire a natural, balanced improvement — not a “tight” look
• Are typically between 40–70 years old (though age alone isn’t a limitation)

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The Procedure: What to Expect

At CK Plastic Surgery Los Angeles, Dr. Kim uses advanced SMAS and deep-plane facelift techniques that rejuvenate not only the skin but also the deeper muscle layer for results that last longer and appear completely natural.

Step-by-Step Overview:

1. Consultation: Dr. Kim designs a custom facelift plan using facial analysis and 3D visualization.
2. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general or twilight anesthesia for comfort.
3. Incisions: Placed discreetly along the hairline and around the ears for minimal visibility.
4. Repositioning: Dr. Kim lifts and repositions facial muscles and tissue for structural rejuvenation.
5. Tightening & Closure: Excess skin is gently trimmed and sutured for a refined finish.

Procedure time: approximately 2–4 hours depending on the scope of correction.

Recovery and Aftercare

Facelift recovery is straightforward and closely monitored by Dr. Kim.

Typical recovery timeline:

• 1–2 weeks: Most patients return to normal activities
• 10–14 days: Bruising and swelling subside significantly
• 2–3 months: Full results become visible as tissues settle

Aftercare tips:

• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling
• Avoid strenuous activity for 2–3 weeks
• Follow Dr. Kim’s personalized aftercare plan for best results

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Surgery Results

A facelift at CK Plastic Surgery offers long-lasting rejuvenation that looks elegant and natural.
Patients often report appearing 8–12 years younger, with improved facial definition and smoother skin texture.

For complete rejuvenation, many patients combine a facelift with eyelid surgery, brow lift, or neck lift to balance overall harmony.

FAQs – Facelift Surgery

Q: How long do facelift results last?
A: Results typically last 8–12 years with good skincare and sun protection.

Q: Is a mini facelift a good option for me?
A: Mini facelifts are ideal for patients in their 40s–50s with mild sagging in the cheeks and jawline.

Q: Are scars visible?
A: No — incisions are strategically hidden along the hairline and natural ear contours.

Q: When can I wear makeup again?
A: Usually after 10–14 days, once incision healing is complete.

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