Facelift Surgery
Ralph A. Massey, MD — Santa Monica & Encino, CA
Facelift surgery at the Cosmetic Surgery Center of Santa Monica offers long-lasting facial rejuvenation without the artificial “pulled” look. Dr. Ralph A. Massey provides advanced surgical techniques in Santa Monica and Encino, helping patients smooth deep lines, lift sagging skin, and regain confidence.
Before & Afters
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Face & Neck Lift
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What Is a Facelift?
A facelift (also known as a rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgery that reduces visible signs of aging on the face and jawline. It involves lifting and tightening underlying facial tissue, removing excess skin, and restoring smoother contours. Dr. Massey’s facelift technique uses local tumescent anesthesia with sedation—a safer alternative to general anesthesia with faster recovery.
He offers both full and mini facelift options. A full facelift addresses the lower face and neck, while a mini facelift is ideal for patients with early jowling or sagging around the cheeks.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
You may be a good candidate for face lift surgery if you:
- Have sagging cheeks, jowls, or loose neck skin
- Notice deep creases along the nose and mouth
- Are generally in good health
- Don’t smoke or are willing to quit temporarily
- Want noticeable results without looking overdone
Some patients may benefit more from a neck lift, liposuction, or nonsurgical facial rejuvenation instead. Dr. Massey will help determine the best approach during your consultation.
What to Expect During the Facelift Procedure
Dr. Massey performs facelift surgery in a certified outpatient setting using tumescent anesthesia combined with oral or IV sedation. This technique keeps patients relaxed and comfortable without putting them fully under.
He begins with small incisions around the ears or hairline. The skin is gently lifted, and the deeper layers are repositioned to smooth folds, tighten jowls, and restore youthful definition. Depending on the complexity, the procedure typically takes two to three hours.
Because it’s done under local anesthesia, patients go home the same day—and without the grogginess or higher risks of general anesthesia.
Recovery After Facelift Surgery
Expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for the first few days. Most patients feel well enough to resume light activities within 7–10 days. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
Dr. Massey will provide detailed post-op instructions and check in throughout your healing process. His use of local anesthesia often results in faster recovery and fewer complications than traditional methods.
Final results develop gradually over several weeks and continue to improve as swelling resolves. Most patients enjoy results that last 7–10 years.
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Patients choose facelift surgery for many reasons, including:
- Firmer, smoother skin on the face and neck
- Improved jawline and reduced jowls
- Long-lasting rejuvenation that looks natural
- Boosted self-confidence without dramatic changes
- Minimal scarring and downtime with Dr. Massey’s technique
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
The cost of a surgical facelift varies depending on the extent of the procedure, anesthesia, and any combination with other treatments like a brow lift or eyelid surgery. Dr. Massey provides a customized quote after your consultation.
Financing options, such as CareCredit, may be available to help you manage payments.
Why Choose Ralph A. Massey, MD?
Dr. Ralph Massey brings over two decades of experience to every facelift procedure. He’s fellowship-trained in cosmetic surgery from Columbia University and board-certified in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery. As Director of the Cosmetic Surgery Center of Santa Monica and Assistant Clinical Professor at UCLA, he stays at the forefront of safe, advanced surgical techniques. His care is grounded in evidence—not trends.
Santa Monica and Encino patients trust Dr. Massey for his honest guidance, steady hands, and consistently natural results. His approach prioritizes your safety, your goals, and results that help you look and feel like yourself again.
FAQs About Facelift Surgery
What’s the difference between a full facelift and a mini facelift?
A full facelift treats sagging skin and deeper facial aging, especially around the neck and jawline. A mini facelift is less invasive and best for early signs of aging in the mid-face.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the surgery. Dr. Massey uses local anesthesia and mild sedation to keep you relaxed and pain-free.
Can I combine facelift surgery with other treatments?
Yes. Many patients combine their facelift with eyelid surgery, laser resurfacing, or lip enhancement for a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
How old should I be for a facelift?
There’s no set age, but most facelift patients are in their 40s to 60s. The decision is based more on your facial aging and skin elasticity than your exact age.
Will I have visible scars after a facelift?
Facelift incisions are usually hidden around the ears and hairline. Over time, these scars fade and become barely noticeable for most patients.
Can I get a second facelift later?
Yes, many patients choose to have a second facelift 8–10 years after their first to maintain their results. Surgeons can often use the same incision lines to minimize new scarring.
How long until I see final results?
Initial improvements are visible within two to three weeks, but swelling can take a few months to fully resolve. Most patients see their final results by three months post-surgery.
Schedule Your Facelift Consultation in Santa Monica, CA
Don’t let sagging skin define how you feel about your appearance. Book a facelift consultation with Dr. Ralph Massey in Santa Monica or Encino, CA to learn how surgical rejuvenation can help you look refreshed and reinvigorated.
Your Face Lift will be performed by Dr. Ralph A. Massey himself, within his certified outpatient surgery center in Santa Monica.
“Truly grateful for the high quality of care”
“so much expertise, caring, and friendship”
“What an amazing healer!”
“Simply the best of the best”
“This doctor walks on water”