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Facelift in NYC | New York Facelift Surgery | Dr. Kwak

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Table of Contents

  1. What is a Facelift?
  2. Benefits of a Facelift
  3. Am I a Candidate for a Facelift?
  1. Types of Facelifts Offered
  2. Your Facelift Journey
  3. How Much Does A Face Lift Cost?
  1. Why Choose Dr. Kwak?
  2. More Resources
  3. Facelift FAQS

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure designed to reverse signs of aging by restoring volume and definition to the facial contours. Factors like gravity and sun exposure eventually cause facial structures to shift downward, leading to sagging skin and a loss of youthful fullness. This procedure addresses these changes by tightening the jaw and necklines while smoothing away wrinkles.

When performing a custom tailored facelift, Dr. Kwak goes beyond simply pulling the skin. Through precise incisions hidden along the hairline and ear, he lifts and redrapes the skin while repositioning the underlying muscle layers to a more youthful position. By lifting these deep structural layers and removing excess skin, Dr. Kwak restores facial harmony and youthful contours while preserving your natural features.

Benefits of a Facelift

While non-surgical treatments can provide temporary improvements, a facelift in NYC offers a comprehensive and long-lasting solution for those seeking significant rejuvenation. By addressing the structural causes of aging rather than just the surface symptoms, this procedure provides several key benefits:


  • Refined Jawline and Neck: The procedure effectively eliminates jowls and tightens a sagging neckline, restoring the sharp, clean profile of your youth.
  • Restored Midface Volume: By repositioning underlying tissues, a facelift lifts sagging cheeks and smooths the deep folds that often form between the nose and mouth.
  • Natural and Refreshed Appearance: Modern techniques focus on the deeper muscle layers to ensure you look like a younger version of yourself rather than appearing over-tightened or "pulled."
  • Long-Lasting Results: Unlike fillers or skin tightening devices that require frequent maintenance, a surgical facelift provides results that typically endure for a decade or more.
  • Boosted Self-Confidence: Beyond the physical changes, patients often experience a renewed sense of confidence as their outer appearance begins to match their internal vitality.

Am I a Candidate for a Facelift?

Facelift surgery may be a good option for individuals in overall good health who feel that facial aging can no longer be adequately addressed with non-surgical treatments. While there is no specific age requirement, many patients consider a facelift when they notice skin laxity, jowling, or a loss of jawline definition that affects facial contours. Other common concerns include midface descent, deepening lines around the mouth, under-eye hollowing, and looseness or banding in the neck.

Equally important, ideal candidates have realistic expectations and are committed to habits that support healing, such as avoiding tobacco use. During your consultation, Dr. Kwak will carefully evaluate your facial anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to determine whether a facelift or an alternative approach is best suited to achieve natural, balanced rejuvenation.

Types of Facelifts Offered

Dr. Kwak’s facelift approach blends advanced surgical technique with a refined artistic eye to achieve natural, balanced results. He understands that no two faces age the same, which is why he customizes every procedure to suit each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. Whether performing a mini facelift, traditional facelift, or deep plane facelift, Dr. Kwak focuses on subtle enhancement rather than dramatic change. By offering a tailored facelift in New York, he aims to restore youthful contours while preserving your individuality.


Facelift New York City

Mini - Facelift

Known for its shortened downtime, a mini facelift uses small, inconspicuous incisions around the ear and hairline to contour the jawline, cheeks, and neck. Unlike traditional or deep plane facelifts that address more significant skin laxity and deeper structural sagging, the mini facelift focuses on moderate rejuvenation with a less invasive approach. Dr. Kwak customizes the procedure by addressing the underlying soft tissue and muscular layers based on your unique concerns. This technique is often performed under local anesthesia and typically requires a recovery period of approximately 7 to 10 days.

Traditional Facelift

The traditional facelift refreshes and recontours the lower face by addressing deep creases and sagging. This technique is typically recommended for patients with more significant skin laxity in the lower jawline and neck. During the procedure, incisions are discreetly hidden around the ears and within the hairline, ensuring they remain virtually undetectable once the healing process is complete.

Because every patient ages differently, Dr. Kwak offers several variations of the traditional technique to best suit your facial anatomy and goals. For a more balanced and refreshed result, traditional facelifts are frequently performed in combination with a brow lift, neck lift, or eyelid surgery to address the face as a whole.

Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift directly addresses the structural changes of aging by focusing on the deeper tissue and muscle layers. By releasing key facial retaining ligaments, Dr. Kwak can reposition the foundational anatomy vertically for a longer lasting lift. Unlike a traditional facelift that primarily tightens the skin and superficial tissue, this technique provides a comprehensive lift that eliminates tension on the skin surface.

A major benefit of this technique is the natural restoration of facial volume. By repositioning these deeper layers, adjacent structures like the midface fat pads are lifted back to their youthful position. This restores fullness to the cheeks and smooths the area around the mouth without the need for fillers, providing a refined and refreshed appearance.


Rhinoplasty New York City

Your Facelift Journey

Undergoing a facelift in NYC with Dr. Edward S. Kwak is a personalized experience from start to finish. Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation where Dr. Kwak evaluates your facial structure, listens to your goals, and creates a customized surgical plan tailored to your needs.

On the day of surgery, he uses precise techniques in a fully accredited operating suite to lift and reposition facial tissues, remove excess skin, and restore youthful contours with minimal scarring. After the procedure, patients recover under close supervision with detailed aftercare instructions and support from Dr. Kwak’s team. Most swelling and bruising resolve within two weeks, and most individuals resume normal activities in 10 to 14 days, feeling confident and refreshed.

Preparing for Facelift Surgery

Dr. Kwak begins with a private consultation, where your facial anatomy, aesthetic goals, and medical history are thoroughly reviewed. Dr. Kwak takes a personalized approach, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your treatment plan. During this visit, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, understand your surgical options, and receive a clear overview of what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.

Prior to surgery, a member of our medical staff will walk you through detailed preoperative and postoperative instructions and provide any necessary prescriptions. We recommend obtaining medical clearance from your primary care physician in advance. You will be asked to stop eating the night before your scheduled surgery, and any medications you are currently taking will be carefully evaluated. If you are traveling from outside the area, our team can assist with finding hotel accommodations near the clinic. To ensure your safety and comfort, we provide a private nurse to stay with you during the first night of recovery, included as part of your surgical fee. Extended nursing care is also available upon request.


What happens during the Procedure

On the day of your procedure you will meet with Dr. Kwak to review your plan and to ask any final questions prior to the surgery. Dr Kwak will perform surgical markings to customize the required surgery to your specific issues. If your surgery requires deeper sedation (general anesthesia), you will meet with our board certified anesthesiologist before the surgery.

Patients are then escorted by our nurse to our certified (AAAASF) operating room.

During the surgery, Dr Kwak will make an incision around your ears and into your hairline. The type of incision used minimizes all visible incisions, by placing part of the incision in the ear canal. Once this incision is made, Dr Kwak skillfully dissects the required anatomic areas customized to your type of facelift being performed. Once the required structures are isolated, Dr. Kwak will tighten the underlying facial musculature usually along a bidirectional vector, securing it in place with sutures. The overlying skin is then redraped and excess skin is removed. Thin medical-grade, skin-friendly sutures will be used to close the skin incisions. Small temporary surgical drains are often necessary for facelift surgeries. At the end, a light bandage is placed around the face.


Recovery from Facelift Surgery

Recovery following a facelift is a highly individualized process, with each patient experiencing slightly different timelines based on the extent of their procedure and their unique healing response. Swelling and bruising are most noticeable in the first few days and gradually diminish over the course of one to two weeks. Any initial tightness, numbness, or mild discomfort is typically well managed with prescribed medications and supportive care. Dr. Kwak uses advanced techniques and places incisions in discreet locations to minimize visible scarring and promote a smooth healing process.

Most patients feel ready to return to non-strenuous daily activities within 10 to 14 days, though it may take several weeks for residual swelling to fully resolve and for final results to take shape. Dr. Kwak and his team provide comprehensive post-operative instructions, schedule follow-up appointments, and remain available to answer any concerns throughout your recovery. Their attentive, hands-on approach ensures that you feel supported, informed, and confident as you heal, helping you achieve the most natural and satisfying outcome possible.


Facelift in New York City
Facelift in New York City
Facelift in New York City
Facelift in New York City

How Much Does A Face Lift Cost?

The cost of a facelift in Manhattan varies based on the complexity of the surgery, the specific techniques used, and whether additional procedures like a neck lift or eyelid surgery are included. Because Dr. Kwak customizes every surgical plan to your unique anatomy, he provides a clear, personalized quote during your private consultation. This comprehensive estimate includes surgical fees, anesthesia, and aftercare to ensure full transparency for your investment. While some clinics offer lower pricing, Dr. Kwak cautions against choosing a surgeon based on cost alone, as revision surgery for unsatisfactory results is often far more complex and expensive.

To help make your facial rejuvenation more affordable, we accept a variety of payment methods including cash, checks, and all major credit or debit cards. We also offer flexible financing through CareCredit and PatientFi to assist with your facelift investment. CareCredit allows you to apply online for a specific amount and provides prompt approval with options for six month no interest plans or extended payment terms. PatientFi is another patient friendly alternative that uses a soft credit check, meaning you can see if you qualify for your procedure with no impact on your credit score. During your consultation, our team can help you explore these financing options to find the best fit for your budget.

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Shaun Kiviat 5 Stars

Best Facelift! I knew I needed to tighten up my double chin but was very nervous for my first procedure. Dr. Edward Kwak did an amazing job and his staff was extremely knowledgeable and responsive. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for the best facelift.

Why choose Dr. Kwak for Your FaceLift?

Dr. Edward S. Kwak is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon known for his refined technique, artistic eye, and commitment to personalized care. With a practice focused exclusively on facial and neck procedures, Dr. Kwak has become one of the most trusted specialists for those seeking a facelift in NYC. Each procedure is meticulously planned to address facial aging with precision, lifting and tightening the underlying structures to restore youthful contours without compromising natural expression.

Unlike general plastic surgeons, Dr. Kwak focuses solely on the face and neck, allowing him to hone advanced techniques in these delicate areas. His certifications from both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery reflect the depth of his training and commitment to excellence. His accolades include recognition as a New York Super Doctor, New York Rising Stars, Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctor, and recipient of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society Award.

Patients from across the country seek Dr. Kwak for his highly individualized approach. He dedicates ample time to each consultation, reviewing medical history, assessing facial anatomy, and discussing aesthetic goals in detail. Through clear communication and a focus on natural, balanced results, Dr. Kwak ensures every facelift patient feels informed, supported, and confident throughout the entire experience. ESKMD Facial Plastic Surgery is a leading destination for advanced facial rejuvenation performed with integrity and care.


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Facelift FAQs

How Long Does a Facelift Last?

The results of a facelift are more lasting than any other alternative. On average a deep plane facelift can last for up to 10 years. While the mini facelift typically last up to 5-10 years. Variations are based numerous factors such as one’s skin type, genetics, and overall health.

What is the Difference Between a Mini Facelift and a Full Facelift?

A mini facelift incorporates shorter incisions, typically the incision starts along the sideburn region continuing along the front of the ear and ending around the ear lobe. While a traditional facelift incision utilizing the same incision as described above and extends along the back of the ear and into the hairline. Both techniques can utilize a deep plane component to address the SMAS layer. In general, the traditional facelift is reserved for those individuals with more significant facial and neck jowls.

What type of anesthesia is required?

Some mini facelift surgeries can be performed under local anesthesia (patients are alert but injections are made with anesthetics to numb the region).

For any deep plane component of the facelift and for all traditional facelift surgeries, Dr Kwak recommends “twilight” anesthesia. (Patients are given medication intravenously by a board-certified anesthesiologist. They type of anesthesia provides comfort to the patient while breathing on their own)

When can I return back to work? Activities?

We recommend for the first week after surgery staying home and recovering. Most patients are able to return back to work around 2 weeks after surgery. Anticipate no strenuous activities or exercising for the first two weeks. Most patients may resume some light activities 3-4 weeks after surgery. At 6 weeks after surgery there are typically no restrictions.

Who is not a good candidate?

You will may be ineligible for a facelift if:

  • Significant medical issues (i.e. stroke, heart failure, uncontrolled diabetes)
  • You take blood thinners
  • You have an active skin ailment or infection
  • You have had multiple fluctuations in weight, resulting in constant stretching of the skin
  • You are a smoker
When Should I Expect to See Results?

Results are fairly immediate, once the swelling and bruising have subsided, which is usually around two weeks after surgery.

Will My Face Have a Pulled Look?

When your New York facelift is performed by an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon, using modern surgical techniques, your face should look naturally rejuvenated. The key is to lift the underlying musculature itself, which creates a more youthful appearance with results that last longer.

A pulled unnatural look is the result of poor surgical procedure, just pulling the skin tighter, rather than addressing the underlying muscle structure. Dr. Kwak is a perfectionist and understands that no patient wants a facelift that looks strange and unnatural!

Can I Get the Same Results from a Non-Surgical Facelift?

While recent technological advancement has been promising. No current non-surgical option on the market today can deliver the same outcomes as a facelift. A facelift is still the gold standard for facial rejuvenation of the midface and lower neck.

Mild improvements can be seen with non-surgical procedures, but for those of you who are looking to address the more extensive signs of aging, a facelift provides the greatest results.

I Have Already Had a Facelift (from Another Doctor) and I’m Unhappy with the Results. Can It Be Corrected?

In most cases, this can be corrected or revised to give you an appearance that you feel is more desirable. Dr. Kwak will assess the work that has been previously done and determine the best course of action to help you correct any aspects of the previous procedure, so you feel better about your appearance.

Some common reasons to consider a revision facelift are:

  • Sightly scarring
  • Persistent skin laxity or jowling
  • Recoiling of the muscle
  • Progressive aging

References

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