For years, facelifts were thought of as something you did later in life—maybe in your 60s or even 70s. But that mindset is rapidly shifting, and it’s changing the face of cosmetic surgery, literally. From celebrities like Kris Jenner openly sharing their own facelift journeys, to more and more people in their 40s and even late 30s taking the leap, one thing is clear: the facelift is having a moment.
So what’s behind this change? Why are more people opting for surgical facial rejuvenation earlier than ever before, and how do you know if it’s time for you to consider it?
We asked our very own board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Young Cho, to help us break it down.
Why Are People Getting Facelifts Younger Than Before?
Social media, Zoom calls, and high-definition everything have changed the way we see ourselves and the way others see us. The pressure to look fresh, rested, and youthful at all times is real, especially in a world where filters and photo editing are the norm.
This trend recently made headlines when Kris Jenner, age 69, revealed her most recent facelift results that practically aged her backward 10 or more years. But many are choosing to move forward even earlier, not necessarily because they “look old,” but because they want to stay ahead of the aging curve.
When Is the Right Time for a Facelift?
There’s no magic age for a facelift. The best time is when you are starting to notice changes that non-surgical options can’t quite fix or address.
Here are a few signs it might be time:
- Sagging along the jawline or neck
- Deepening nasolabial folds (the lines from nose to mouth)
- Loss of cheek volume or facial definition
- A tired or “pulled down” appearance, even when you’re well-rested
While these signs often begin in the 40s and 50s, everyone ages differently. Factors like genetics, lifestyle, sun exposure, skin quality, and even the rapid weight loss associated with the growing popularity of GLP medications can all influence how and when aging starts to appear.
What Types of Facelifts Are Available?
It’s important to understand that not all facelifts are created equal. The best approach depends on your unique anatomy, goals, and stage of facial aging.
Some popular options include:
- Mini Facelift – Ideal for patients in their 40s or 50s with mild to moderate sagging. Less invasive, shorter recovery.
- Quantum Facelift – A comprehensive facelift approach offered at Integrated Aesthetics to effectively target early signs of aging by combining multiple minimally invasive and non-surgical modalities.
- Traditional Facelift – Addresses more significant sagging on the entire face. Often paired with a neck lift or fat grafting for volume.
- Deep Plane Facelift – A more advanced approach that lifts deeper layers of tissue, including the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), for longer-lasting and more natural-looking results.
- PonyTail Facelift – Follows the same principle as a Deep Plane Facelift but uses an endoscope (surgical camera) to allow for more hidden scars. Great for patients who are afraid of incisions and do not need a lot of skin excision.
What If I’m Not Ready for Surgery Yet?
If a facelift isn’t the right step for you just yet, there are still effective ways to refresh and maintain your appearance with no surgery required. These treatments can help slow visible signs of aging and keep your skin looking lifted, firm, and radiant:
- Emface – A needle-free treatment that lifts and tones facial elevator muscles using RF (radiofrequency) and HIFES (high-intensity facial electromagnetic stimulation) energy.
- Sofwave/Ultherapy – Uses ultrasound energy to tighten skin on the face and neck.
- Dermal Fillers – Restores volume in the cheeks, smile lines, temples, jawlines, lips, and under eyes.
- Thread Lifts – A minimally invasive way to lift sagging skin with absorbable threads.
- Muscle Relaxers (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Daxxify) – Soften expression lines and prevent deeper wrinkles from forming.
These treatments can offer beautiful results on their own or be used to extend the life of a facelift.
Why It Matters to See a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Facial rejuvenation isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why it’s critical to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Cho, who understands both the art and science of facial anatomy. With years of experience and a reputation for natural-looking results, Dr. Cho will help you decide if now is the right time for surgery or if other treatments will serve you better.
Curious If a Facelift Is Right for You? Let’s Find Out—Together.
Whether you’re ready to move forward or simply exploring what’s next, a consultation at Integrated Aesthetics is a great place to start. Dr. Young Cho, Dr. Mihail Climov, or Dr. Melissa Chiang, along with our experienced team, will listen closely, answer your questions, and help you understand all of your options—with honesty, care, and a plan tailored just for you.
Let us help you feel more like yourself again. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward feeling truly good in your own skin.
