facelift |
In this era of the undetectable facelift, Dr. Zelken is committed to achieving world-class results.
As an artist and scientist, Dr. Zelken has years of expertise performing the composite deep plane facelift.
before & after
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Dr. Zelken's Philosophy
A facelift should never leave you looking “done” or unnatural. At the Zelken Institute for Aesthetic Medicine in Newport Beach, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Zelken specializes in advanced deep plane facelift techniques designed to restore youthful contours while preserving your individuality. The goal is subtle refinement, a refreshed, natural look that feels like you, only younger.
Many patients worry about looking “pulled” or “overdone.” This concern might stem from childhood memories of earlier facelifts in an older generation, when it was not uncommon to see people with visibly tight, shiny, or windswept faces. Fortunately, those days are behind us.
Today’s facelift techniques are designed to avoid those telltale signs and instead restore a natural, refreshed appearance. Without a doubt, achieving a subtle, undetectable result often requires more skill and effort than simply tightening the skin. A modern facelift is not about pulling, it’s about carefully repositioning deeper tissues to create balance, harmony, and a look that feels entirely your own.
Dr. Jonathan Zelken is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach whose practice is defined by one procedure above all others: the facelift. Unlike many surgeons who perform facelifts occasionally, Dr. Zelken has made it his signature operation, specializing in the advanced composite deep plane technique that consistently delivers natural, long-lasting results. Performing facelifts every week for more than a decade, Dr. Zelken has refined every step of the process to achieve outcomes that are both elegant and undetectable. His unparalleled surgical volume places him among a select group of surgeons nationwide who can offer this level of expertise.
Patients regularly travel from across the country and around the world to place their trust in Dr. Zelken’s hands. From executives and public figures to patients simply seeking the very best, discerning individuals choose him for his artistry, precision, and reputation for natural results.
Dr. Zelken’s expertise has been featured by outlets such as CNN, NewBeauty, and many podcasts, and he has been invited to lecture on advanced surgical techniques. His work reflects not only surgical excellence but also thought leadership in shaping the future of modern facial rejuvenation. With a focus on safety, refinement, and exclusivity, his facelifts are designed not just to rejuvenate,but to restore confidence at the highest level.
What is a Facelift?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and repositions underlying facial tissues to reverse visible signs of aging. Rhytid is the medical term for wrinkles, and the suffix -ectomy literally means “to remove”. In other words, a facelift is intended to remove or soften facial wrinkles. Unlike fillers or skin tightening treatments, a facelift directly addresses laxity in the skin and deeper facial layers that cause jowls, sagging cheeks, and neck laxity.
The goal is to achieve a smoother jawline, firmer neck, and overall facial harmony that nonsurgical options simply cannot achieve.
Of course, there are many different flavors of the facelift. Even on a single surgeon’s website, you may encounter three or more options or names for a facelift. Rather than focusing on these names and trademarked brands, Dr. Zelken aims to keep the facelift concept limited to the result: a better jawline, tighter neck, and uplifted midface. The nuances on how to achieve that facelift are so individualized, it’s silly to call it anything more than what it is: your facelift.
Types of Facelifts We Offer
Dr. Zelken will approach your face individually, depending on your unique goals and anatomy. Having said that, there are various avenues to achieve the result you desire.
Dr. Zelken prefers the composite deep plane facelift because it addresses some of the most stubborn signs of aging: marionette lines around the mouth, creases in the perioral (lip and chin) area, and looseness in the neck. Instead of simply pulling the skin tighter, this advanced technique lifts and repositions the deeper layers of the face, creating a smoother, more natural look. In Dr. Zelken’s experience, patients enjoy results that last longer with a lower chance of problems like skin loss or wide scars, making it a safer and more reliable option for facial rejuvenation.
Because “deep plane facelift” is a buzz word, it is often falsely marketed. For example, if you are considering a deep plane facelift, it should require at least 5-6 hours to complete. Dr. Zelken only performs one deep plane facelift per day. If you are interested in viewing this procedure, and do not mind very graphic content, you can see Dr. Zelken in action at:
The SMAS facelift (sometimes called SMASectomy or SMAS plication) is considered the “traditional” facelift technique used by most plastic surgeons. The SMAS, or superficial musculoaponeurotic system, is a thin layer of muscle and connective tissue that lies beneath the skin of the face. Manipulating the SMAS during surgery is important because it helps create longer-lasting results compared to a skin-only lift.
One advantage of the SMAS facelift is that it does not typically involve dissecting near the facial nerves, which may make it somewhat safer in that regard. However, because this technique lifts the skin away from the underlying tissues more extensively, it can disrupt the blood supply to the face. As a result, the risks of hematoma (bleeding under the skin) and skin loss may be slightly higher than with newer approaches.
For patients who have already undergone multiple facelifts, the SMAS technique can still be valuable; high-profile figures such as Kris Jenner have reportedly had success with it. That said, it is not Dr. Zelken’s first choice for most patients, as he believes the composite deep plane facelift offers more natural, comprehensive, and reliable results
Many patients are intrigued by the idea of a “Mini Facelift” or “short scar facelift” because the name suggests an easier recovery and fewer scars. While this may sound appealing, the reality is different. Dr. Zelken performs this type of facelift in fewer than 1% of patients, and only under very specific circumstances.
A mini facelift is essentially a skin-only lift, which offers limited improvements compared to modern deep plane techniques. It may be considered for patients who fully understand its limitations, are not healthy enough for surgery under anesthesia, or need a very short-term refresh, such as being camera-ready within a week.
It’s important to remember that anything marketed as “mini,” “short,” or “lunchtime” comes with tradeoffs. These procedures simply cannot deliver the same transformative, long-lasting results that Dr. Zelken aims for with his comprehensive facelifts, which are designed to maximize definition of the jawline, neck, and midface.3
In Dr. Zelken’s practice, every facelift is performed together with a neck lift. Dr. Zelken believes that the most effective way to sharpen and define the jawline is by creating balanced tension, using opposing forces to gently tighten the skin and soft tissue over the jawbone for a natural, sculpted result. This is the best combination to sharpen the jawline, smoothen vertical neck bands, and eliminate excess skin for comprehensive rejuvenation.
If you had surgery elsewhere and desire correction, refinement, or restoration of results, you may be a candidate for a revision facelift. Despite common belief, there is no maximum number of facelifts you can undertake in a lifetime. However, each facelift may be riskier than the last due to scar tissue and disruption of normal anatomic relationships, and there may be less of an effect each time the tissues are tightened. Just like first-time facelifts, there are various ways to achieve desired results in revision surgery, including conversion to a deep plane facelift. Also, Dr. Zelken aims to improve pixie-ear deformities, visible or unusual scarring, and even bulging that can occur in the cheeks after facelift.
The early intervention facelift is designed for patients who are beginning to notice the very first signs of aging, such as mild jowling, early neck laxity, or softening of youthful facial contours. Rather than waiting until these changes become more advanced, this approach addresses them at their earliest stage, helping to preserve natural beauty and extend youthful features for years to come. Because the tissues are still strong and resilient, results are often more subtle but longer lasting than facelifts performed later in life.
Many patients from across the nation, and even around the world, seek out Dr. Zelken specifically for this proactive approach. For them, it is less about dramatic correction and more about making a wise, forward-looking investment in aging gracefully, with results that appear seamless, natural, and uniquely their own.
Benefits of a Facelift
- Restores youthful contours.
- Redefines the jawline and neck.
- Produces natural results that last longer than nonsurgical options.
- Improves self-confidence and harmony with other facial features.
- Improves full cheeks and jowls.
- Repositions skin and fat to conceal prominent bones.
Who is a Good Facelift Candidate?
The best candidates for a facelift are men and women in good overall health who are beginning to notice moderate to advanced signs of facial aging, such as jowls, sagging cheeks, or looseness in the neck. Ideal patients are non-smokers (or willing to quit before surgery), have realistic expectations, and are looking for a long-lasting solution that goes beyond what fillers or skin treatments can achieve.
There is no strict age cutoff. In fact, Dr. Zelken routinely performs facelifts on patients under 40 who are ready for a more definitive approach to facial rejuvenation.
So if you’ve had threads, fillers, or skin resurfacing in the past, it may make the surgery slightly more complex. However, most of Dr. Zelken’s facelift patients have undergone these treatments before, and you may still be an excellent candidate for surgery.
The Facelift Procedure (What to Expect)
Every facelift journey with Dr. Zelken begins with a consultation, either in person or virtually for out-of-town patients, where he carefully evaluates your anatomy, reviews your goals, and recommends the best approach for natural, lasting results. A preoperative appointment follows, usually within two weeks of surgery, to review bloodwork, photographs, preparation and recovery guidelines, and to ensure you are medically optimized and aligned on expectations. The surgery itself is performed in a fully accredited facility under anesthesia with board-certified anesthesiologists.
Recovery
First Week
• Swelling and bruising peak on days 3–4 (especially if fat grafting performed).
• Pain is usually minimal and well-controlled.
• Optional hyperbaric oxygen therapy may help.
Two Weeks
• Light social activities are usually possible.
• Stitches behind ears/hairline removed between days 10–14.
• Many patients return to work.
Four to Six Weeks
• Swelling continues to subside.
• Youthful contours of face and neck become more apparent.
• Confidence builds as results show more clearly.
Long-Term
• Results can last 10+ years with healthy lifestyle, sun protection, and good skincare.
• Dr. Zelken and his team remain committed to ongoing safety, comfort, and satisfaction.
Results & Longevity
Unlike temporary treatments, a facelift offers enduring rejuvenation, often lasting a decade or more. The results go beyond surface changes: patients enjoy sculpted jawlines, smoother, more elegant necklines, and a natural restoration of youthful balance and volume.
The hallmark of Dr. Zelken’s work is refined subtlety. The goal is not to look “different,” but to look effortlessly refreshed or radiant in a way that others notice without ever suspecting surgery. Subtlety here does not mean unremarkable; it means your transformation is seamless, graceful, and entirely your own.
With an understanding of the profound investment patients make in themselves, Dr. Zelken delivers enhancements that are both measurable and timeless, natural results of the highest caliber, designed to look as if they were always meant to be.
Risks & Considerations
As with all surgery, a facelift carries some risks such as swelling, bruising, numbness, or scarring. Dr. Zelken believes in complete transparency and will review all considerations during your consultation. Our team provides detailed pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize risks and support healing.
Testimonials & Social Proof
"Dr. Zelken gave me back ten years. I look refreshed, not pulled. The recovery was easier than I expected, and his team made me feel cared for every step of the way."– Actual Patient
FAQ
Will I look unnatural after my facelift?
No. While every patient’s perception of results is subjective, the deep plane facelift is specifically designed to reposition the deeper tissues in a way that restores youthful contours without creating an overtightened look. Dr. Zelken’s approach emphasizes natural outcomes, avoiding telltale signs of surgery such as windswept cheeks, a widened mouth, visible scars, or unnatural changes to the ears and earlobes.
How long until I can attend social events?
Many patients feel presentable within about two weeks, although healing and refinement continue for months. As one of Dr. Zelken’s mentors once put it: “At two weeks you may feel comfortable going to the supermarket without feeling self-conscious, and by three weeks you’ll likely be ready for your third-favorite restaurant.”
How is a facelift different from fillers?
Fillers replace lost volume temporarily, though there may be permanent and undesirable swelling that results. A facelift repositions deeper tissues for long-lasting structural improvement.
What is the cost of a facelift?
Because every face is unique, pricing is personalized. You’ll receive a detailed estimate at your consultation.
How old should I be to get a facelift?
There is no strict age limit for facelift surgery. While once reserved for older patients with significant skin laxity, facelifts are now commonly performed in the 40s and 50s to address early signs of aging, often with more natural and beautifying results than when done later. Even younger patients can experience concerns like jowls or marionette lines, and in select cases, a facelift may be the best solution when nonsurgical options fall short.
Since the pandemic, Dr. Zelken has even performed facelifts on patients in their 20s and 30s, often to correct issues like overly full cheeks or jawlines that cannot be improved with fillers or energy devices. These younger patients typically seek a slimmer, more sculpted look. That said, the average facelift patient in Dr. Zelken’s practice is still in their mid-to-late 40s.
Where do the facelift scars go?
In most cases, facelift incisions are placed with precision so they blend seamlessly into natural contours. They typically begin at the sideburn, trace along the natural fold in front of the ear, curve beneath the earlobe, and continue into the hairline behind the ear. In some patients, a small additional incision may be hidden within the hair at the temple, and occasionally, a fine incision beneath the chin is used to optimize neck definition
These incisions are designed to heal discreetly, and over time they usually become difficult to detect. With careful placement, meticulous closure, and proper aftercare, most patients find that even close friends, hair stylists, or colleagues are unlikely to notice them.
Will I see the facelift scars?
For many patients, the word scar is the greatest hesitation when considering facelift surgery. Dr. Zelken, however, is committed to minimizing their visibility, through careful incision placement, refined surgical technique, and postoperative strategies like silicone sheeting, lasers, microneedling, and light therapies. Dr. Zelken is meticulous in his approach, using precise blade angles, multi-layer closures, and tension-free techniques to help ensure scars heal as discreetly as possible. While no scar can ever disappear completely, most facelift incisions fade over time to become inconspicuous. Rarely, scar revisions may be performed to minimize a visible scar.
Through meticulous technique and a commitment to scar minimization, Dr. Zelken delivers results that look natural, balanced, and undetectable. When appropriate, he also offers less invasive procedures, but for many patients, nothing achieves the same transformative, lasting impact as a facelift. This is why patients from across the country, and around the world, seek out Dr. Zelken’s expertise, entrusting him with one of the most delicate and defining procedures in aesthetic surgery.
When can I work out?
Many of Dr. Zelken’s patients are cleared to resume light cardio and weights within 3–4 weeks. For heavier lifting or more strenuous activity, we typically recommend waiting 4–6 weeks to allow your body the best chance to heal. Following these guidelines helps minimize swelling and ensures your scars heal as smoothly as possible, so you can enjoy your results with confidence.
Do I need fat grafting?
Facial aging is complex and involves more than just loose skin. Over time, the face experiences volume loss, thinning skin, muscle laxity, and even bony changes. Simply tightening the skin addresses only part of the problem. One of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of facial rejuvenation is restoring lost volume with fat
For this reason, Dr. Zelken performs conservative, artistic fat grafting in about 95% of his facelifts, a technique sometimes called the “lift and fill” facelift. By carefully transferring small amounts of a patient’s own fat (often from the abdomen) to areas such as the tear troughs, cheeks, chin borders, or jawline, he enhances natural contours and creates balanced, long-lasting results. Fat grafting adds little time to surgery, does not make patients look “fatter,” and is avoided only in cases where over-volumization is already a concern or when patients prefer not to have it.
Can I do my facelift awake?
Yes, but it is rarely offered. A “wide awake” facelift refers to a procedure performed in Dr. Zelken’s office using local anesthesia and oral sedation, rather than general anesthesia in a surgery center. This approach can be more convenient, cost-effective, and avoids the grogginess often associated with general anesthesia. Both mini facelifts and full facelifts can be done this way, but candidacy is highly selective. Patients with significant anxiety or difficulty tolerating dental anesthesia may not be good candidates. Above all, Dr. Zelken prioritizes safety and results. If there is any concern that an awake procedure could compromise either, he will recommend traditional anesthesia instead.
Can I have facial implants placed at the same time as my facelift?
Absolutely.
Ready to Transform Your Look?
If you’re interested in a Facelift, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jonathan Zelken. We’re here to help you achieve your ideal look and answer any questions you may have about facial augmentation.