We all want to look our best at every stage of our lives, but as the natural aging process sets in, it can often leave us looking older than we feel. Skin laxity is a common concern for many women and men looking to restore a more youthful appearance. As we age, production of collagen and elastin — the two key components of firm, supple skin — begins to slow down. This change eventually results in unwanted fine lines, wrinkles, and loose, sagging skin in the face and neck area.

Many factors outside of natural aging, including environmental toxins, lifestyle habits, genetics, and stress, can also contribute to increased skin laxity. To help regain and restore a firmer, more youthful appearance, many people seek the benefits of microlift surgery. Depending on your cosmetic goals, a microlift could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Request a complimentary consultation to learn more about a microlift and find the best procedures and treatments to help you achieve the look you want. We offer convenient appointment times at 3 locations in Southern California to accommodate your needs. Your consultation is an opportunity to speak to an aesthetic expert and discover how we can help you meet your goals.

Real Before and After Patient Photos

Our facial plastic surgeons have advanced training an experience specifically in facial plastic surgery techniques, which help them achieve beautiful, natural-looking results for patients.

Dr. Richard Gangnes is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. In addition to his education from the Washington University School of Medicine, he is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery as well as the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Dr. Bryan Brandon is a facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial plastic surgery techniques, having performed over 500 facial rejuvenation procedures. His meticulous approach to plastic surgery delivers his patients a natural and balanced result, while achieving each individual’s unique aesthetic goals.

For more information on whether eyelid surgery is right for you, please request a complimentary consultation. We will be happy to discuss your concerns as well as your treatment options. We offer convenient appointment times at 3 locations in Southern California to accommodate your needs.

A microlift, or mini facelift, is a procedure that focuses on the lower region of the face, including the cheeks, chin, jawline and neck. It is among the most sought-after cosmetic procedures today for men and women wanting to improve the beginning signs of aging. While a microlift cannot slow the aging process, it can help refresh your look and reverse the signs of aging.

Unlike a traditional facelift that uses incisions in the hairline near the temples and around the ear to the lower scalp, a microlift uses small, discreet incisions placed inside each ear. After, your surgeon makes his incisions, he uses an innovative technique to reposition the skin and underlying tissues to achieve a more youthful appearance.

A microlift can help address moderate sagging in the neck and jawline. It is a technique designed for people who don’t need a full facelift and who desire a less invasive procedure. The total time it takes to perform a microlift alone is typically less than an hour, and the procedure is generally done under local anesthesia.

Microlifts can address many of the common signs of aging in the face including:

• Sagging or loose skin
• Volume loss
• Jowls around the cheeks and jawline
• The appearance of the dreaded “turkey neck”

Depending on what your individual needs are, a microlift can be combined with non-surgical treatments such as fat transfer or injectable fillers to help you restore lost volume and achieve a more complete look.

If you think you could benefit from a microlift, you may first want to make sure that you are a candidate for such a procedure. Here are some of the traits we look for in a good candidate for microlift surgery.

• Generally healthy
  Those who eat right and maintain at least a moderate level of physical activity are usually in good shape to have facial plastic surgery. Healthy patients find it easier to heal and recover properly from a microlift procedure.
  Certain medical conditions, such as a history of blood clots in the legs or clots traveling to the brain, may prevent you from being able to have surgery. Medical conditions that may interfere with wound healing or recovery may also mean that you are not a good candidate for a microlift. Your surgeon will review your medical history during your consultation and decide whether you are healthy enough for surgery. You may be asked to complete some laboratory tests in order to ensure your safety for the procedure.
• Non-smoker
  All smokers are at an increased risk for lung and heart problems, and those risks only increase during surgery. Smokers who have surgery are also more likely to develop blood clots in their legs, which could potentially travel to and damage the lungs.
  There are even risks for smokers when the surgery has been completed. Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen that reaches the cells in the wound, slowing recovery and increasing the likelihood of potential infection. Nicotine may interfere with healing, and you may not be able to have a microlift if you have smoked or used any other nicotine products within 4 weeks of the surgery.
• Moderate to Non-drinker
  Even if you don’t drink that often, it’s best to not consume any alcohol for at least two weeks prior to your surgery. Among obvious reasons, it can leave you dehydrated and may also interfere with the medicine your anesthesiologist will use to sedate you before the procedure.
  Heavy drinkers are at a higher risk for surgical difficulties and complications, and these risks may prevent them from being candidates for surgery. Alcohol has the ability to affect the immune system, making heavy drinkers more susceptible to infection.
• Being realistic about goals
  Good candidates for a microlift have realistic expectations about the outcome of their procedure. As we’ve stated, everyone experiences and recovers from surgery differently, so it’s important to remember that you may not have the same results as someone else.
  You should feel comfortable expressing your goals and concerns about your appearance during your initial consultation. There’s always a possibility that your expectations may not be able to be met, so your surgeon will let you know exactly what you can achieve with a microlift or other procedures. 

When you’ve made the decision to have a microlift, your journey toward a younger, more refreshed appearance will begin with a consultation. Your surgeon will go through your medical history with you and ask specific questions related to your personal health habits. It’s important to be honest about your health history so that can have the greatest chances of success and help reduce potential complications during your surgery and recovery.

During this consultation, your surgeon will ask you what your goals and expectations are for the microlift surgery. He will also examine your face to observe your skin type and bone structure in order to make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure.

This is your opportunity to ask as many questions as possible, so take advantage of this time and get the answers you need straight from the source. At this time, you will discuss such things as:

• Where your surgery will take place.
• What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure.
• Expectations and post-operative instructions for your recovery period.
• Potential risks to be aware of during recovery.

If Dr. Gangnes opts for a non-endoscopic procedure, more continuous incisions will be made, but the reshaping of facial contours will be very similar. Your surgeon makes only minimal incisions and limits cutting of the skin to only what is necessary. This makes recovery time faster, decreases the length of time the actual surgery takes, and negates some of the postoperative risks and complications that can accompany traditional facelifts.

At our practice, the cost of a microlift depends on your particular goals and the type of techniques needed to achieve those goals. If you combine your microlift with other surgical or non-surgical procedures, your total price will be higher.

You will be able to discuss these costs during your consultation after you have spoken with your surgeon. Our surgical coordinator works directly with you and your surgeon to create an individualized treatment plan that considers your aesthetic goals and your budget. At Facial Aesthetic Concepts, we are committed to providing exceptional value for surgical and non-surgical patients alike.

The consultation is your opportunity to voice any questions or concerns you may have about the microlift procedure. As with any procedure, there are certain possible risks to consider such as anesthesia complications, infection, prolonged loss of feeling, or other negative effects.

What are your qualifications?
At Facial Aesthetic Concepts we have performed thousands of facial rejuvenation procedures on women and men. Our surgeons are board certified in facial plastic surgery or plastic surgery and combine more than 50 years of experience.

Am I a good candidate for a microlift?
Your surgeon will personally assess your skin type and bone structure along with your current health and medical history to determine whether a microlift is the right type of treatment for your needs.

How long will it take to heal?
Everyone heals from surgery in their own way, but your surgeon will let you know if he foresees any factors that may contribute to a recovery time that is longer than usual.

When will I be able to return to work?
Depending on what type of work you do and how well you are healing from your microlift, you could potentially go back to work within a couple days following your procedure. You may still have some tightness and numbness and slight bruising at this point, but you should be able to conceal the discoloration with makeup.

Can I see before and after photos of microlifts you’ve done?
Take a look in our online photo gallery at previous happy patients that have received facial rejuvenation procedures. You can also take a look at our patient testimonials and reviews to further understand the entire microlift experience.

What type of anesthesia do you use?
A microlift is performed under local anesthesia with or without mild sedation. Your surgeon will be able to give you more specific information about your anesthesia options during your consultation.

Is a microlift the best option for me?
Your surgeon will address any cosmetic concerns you may have and will be able to recommend certain procedures that you may not have previously considered. For example, you may benefit from the addition of injectable fillers or fat transfer for a smoother, more refreshed look.

When preparing for a microlift, make a list of questions to bring with you to the initial consultation. Talk to your surgeon about your concerns and which areas you would like to be improved to make sure that you have clear expectations about the outcome of your microlift.

You may be asked to get lab testing or have a medical evaluation to check your current health. You will also be asked about any medications you are taking, and you may need to adjust or take additional medications depending on the results of your lab work.

If you smoke, it is imperative that you quit smoking several weeks prior to your plastic surgery. Smoking can cause complications with anesthesia as well as interfere with the healing process, so always be honest about your smoking habits. If you continue to smoke, you may not be able to go through with your surgery.

Make arrangements ahead of time to have someone help you throughout the surgery and initial recovery phases. You will need to ask a friend or family member to drive you to and from the surgery center and stay with you the first day or so following the procedure. You will not be able to perform your daily routine, so having company with you will be helpful and necessary.

Microlifts can be done on an outpatient basis if your surgeon determines that is best for you. The procedure generally takes less than 2 hours, and recovery lasts around one week with minimal discomfort post-procedure. The most common complaints are some discomfort from bruising and possibly some numbness. These effects are temporary and considered to be very minor.

Your surgeon will give you specific details about your aftercare and recovery to ensure that you heal properly and experience the best results possible from your microlift.

As your swelling and bruising subside, the visible improvements of your microlift will become more noticeable. Be sure to let our medical staff know if you feel any extended pain, discomfort, or extreme swelling as your recovery progresses.

Choosing a microlift may help you achieve the results you want with less recovery and downtime than a traditional facelift.

To help maintain the results of your microlift, simply follow Dr. Gangnes’ after-care instructions fully. Even though these are great tips to abide by following plastic surgery, they’re also excellent rules for preventing skin damage and the signs of aging in the first place.

• Protect yourself from the sun.
  As nice as a sunny day feels, we all know about the damage that can come from being exposed to harmful rays for too long. UV rays from the sun break down important proteins in our skin and, as a result, are one of the leading causes of the signs of aging. To keep your skin healthy, always wear sunscreen. Put it on your face each and every day, even when it’s cloudy or when you don’t think you’ll be outside for very long.
• Eat well to nourish your skin.
  Fruits and vegetables are some of the best foods to fill your body with nourishing vitamins that keep your skin looking fresh and healthy. On the other hand, removing harmful foods or avoiding certain ingredients such as sugar can also help to make your skin look its absolute best.
• Use beneficial products.
  Sunscreen and healthy foods are a great start, but you can also extend the beneficial effects of your microlift by using the proper skin care products for your skin type and concerns. Many topical over-the-counter and medical-grade skin care products that contain ingredients such as retinols, peptides, and antioxidants can help brighten and smooth the skin. Moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid can help your skin look supple and hydrated as well.
• Take advantage of additional treatments.
  In addition to your microlift, you may be a candidate for other treatments such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion that will optimize your skin results. These treatments are minimally invasive and intended to remove the surface layer of skin to reveal the fresh skin cells underneath. You may need to wait for a certain period of time after your microlift before any additional treatments may be performed to ensure proper healing.

Consult with Dr. Gangnes to find out what your exact options are to extend the cosmetic benefits of your microlift.

How much does a microlift cost?

The cost of a microlift procedure depends on a variety of different factors. These factors can include the experience of your plastic surgeon, the practice’s location and if you decide to include any additional procedures. Your exact cost will be determined at your consultation with Dr. Gangnes.

How do I find the best plastic surgeon for a microlift near me?

When looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your microlift, ask about their experience. Ask to see photos of previous clients and their before and after images. Find a plastic surgeon that you feel comfortable with.

Will a microlift hurt?

During the procedure, you will receive anesthesia to keep comfortable and relaxed. After the procedure, you may be prescribed pain medication in order to ease any pain and discomfort you experience.

How long is microlift recovery?

Although recovery times vary, many patients are able to return to normal activities within 2 to 3 weeks after a microlift procedure. You may still have some swelling and bruising at this point, as well as some residual tightness or numbness, but this is normal.

Are there any risks involved with a microlift?

A microlift procedure is relatively safe, but, as with any surgical procedure there is always risks. The main risks associated with a microlift include anesthesia risks, bleeding, infection, and nerve injury and weakness.

What other procedures can I have with a microlift?

Many patients opt to include additional procedures with their microlift. Common procedures include:

• Brow lift
• Eyelid surgery
• Rhinoplasty

How can I prepare for a microlift?

Before your microlift, a few things you can do include:

• Stop smoking
• Avoid medications such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements
• Prepare for recovery time — enlist the help of family members and make sure you have everything you need at home before your procedure.
• Pick up post-operative prescription medications before your procedure.

Contact us online to schedule your complimentary consultation and find out more about which face-refreshing options are right for you.

When deciding to have plastic surgery such as a microlift, you want to find the best, most qualified facial plastic surgeon and surgery team in your area. At Facial Aesthetic Concepts, we use state-of-the-art technology combined with exceptional medical expertise in order to give you the best results possible.

Our distinguished surgeons and surgery center have served Orange County for over 30 years, and our highly skilled staff will provide you with a complete skin analysis and come up with a specific treatment plan to address your concerns.