Facelift Overview

Facial Rejuvenation With World-Class Techniques

Dr. Sean Alemi is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with an extensive background in Otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat specialist) and Facial Plastic Surgery. He gained exceptional skill under the mentorship of world-renowned facelift surgeon Dr. Andrew Jacono in New York City, focusing on advanced surgical techniques such as the deep plane facelift. While working as an associate in Dr. Jacono’s practice, Dr. Alemi performed nearly 2,000 procedures, including over 600 deep plane facelifts. 

He is one of the few surgeons in the country with this expertise. His meticulous techniques and artistic eye enable him to deliver consistently beautiful, natural results that rejuvenate the face without distorting the features. Dr. Alemi’s dedication to his craft, along with his compassionate approach to patient care, has earned him a reputation for excellence in facial plastic surgery.

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, or “rhytidectomy,” is a surgical procedure designed to address sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of facial volume. During your facelift in NYC, Dr. Alemi will make discrete incisions, typically hidden along the hairline and around the natural contours of the ears. These incisions allow access to the underlying facial muscles and tissues. The next step involves lifting and repositioning the soft tissues of the face and neck to restore youthful contours. Excess skin is meticulously removed, and the incisions are precisely closed to minimize visible scarring.

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Dr. Alemi looking at client's face while she looks in mirror

What Can a Facelift Do For Me?

  • Lifts sagging skin: Repositions drooping skin in the cheeks, jawline, and neck to restore the tissues to a natural, youthful position.
  • Smooth deep wrinkles and folds: Reduces the appearance of nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, and jowls.
  • Restores facial volume: Lifts and repositions facial tissues to restore lost volume without the need for fillers.
  • Define the jawline: Creates an elegant, defined, crisp jawline by addressing sagging skin and excess fat in the lower face.
  • Natural-looking results: Enhances your natural beauty without a “pulled” or overdone appearance.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

During your consultation, Dr. Alemi will carefully evaluate your goals, facial anatomy, and overall health to determine if a facelift is the right option for you. In general, good candidates for facelift surgery:

  • Are bothered by sagging skin, jowls, or deep facial folds
  • Have good skin elasticity and strong bone structure
  • Are in overall good physical and emotional health
  • Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery
  • Have realistic expectations about the results and recovery
  • Seek long-lasting facial rejuvenation while preserving natural features
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What Are the Benefits of Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery with Dr. Alemi offers a wide range of aesthetic and personal benefits by addressing visible signs of aging. These include:

  • Smoother, firmer facial skin
  • Reduction of deep wrinkles and folds
  • Improved jawline and neck definition
  • More youthful, natural-looking appearance
  • Long-lasting facial rejuvenation results
  • Enhanced self-esteem and confidence
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What to Expect at Your Initial Facelift Consultation

Your facelift consultation with Dr. Alemi is designed to be thorough, informative, and personalized. During this appointment, Dr. Alemi will take time to learn about your specific concerns, goals, and medical history. He will carefully evaluate your facial features, skin quality, and the effects of aging to determine the most effective surgical approach. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss potential outcomes, and review the details of the procedure, including recovery and aftercare. By the end of your consultation, Dr. Alemi will develop a customized treatment plan to help you achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results.

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What Does a Facelift Entail?

A facelift performed by Dr. Alemi involves more than just tightening the skin. Using advanced techniques such as addressing the deeper layers of the face, including the SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) or performing a deep plane facelift, he releases key facial ligaments to achieve a more natural, long-lasting result. The procedure often takes three to four hours and is done under intravenous sedation rather than general anesthesia. 

How Should I Prepare for a Facelift?

Preparing properly for your facelift can help ensure the best possible outcome and a smooth recovery. Dr. Alemi and his team will guide you through the process, but here are some important steps to keep in mind before your surgery:

  • Avoid smoking and nicotine: Stop smoking at least four weeks before surgery to promote better healing and reduce complications.
  • Limit certain medications: Avoid blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil as directed by your surgeon.
  • Arrange transportation and help: Plan for someone to drive you home after surgery and assist you during the initial recovery period.
  • Follow pre-surgery instructions: Complete any required lab tests or medical evaluations and adhere strictly to fasting guidelines before your procedure.
  • Prepare your recovery space: Set up a comfortable resting area with pillows, ice packs, and easy access to water and medications.

By following these steps and Dr. Alemi’s personalized recommendations, you can help ensure your facelift experience is safe and successful.

What Is Recovery Like After a Facelift?

Recovery after a facelift varies by individual, but understanding what to expect can help you prepare. Dr. Alemi provides detailed post-operative care instructions to support your healing and ensure the best results. Generally, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first week. Most patients begin to see noticeable improvements within two weeks, though full healing and final results may take several months.

Key points about facelift recovery include:

  • Swelling and bruising: Common in the first 1-2 weeks and gradually fade.
  • Pain management: Mild discomfort is normal; pain medication is provided as needed.
  • Activity restrictions: Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 3-4 weeks.
  • Incision care: Keep the incision sites clean and follow Dr. Alemi’s guidance on dressing changes.
  • Follow-up visits: Regular appointments with Dr. Alemi ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

With proper care and patience, you’ll enjoy a refreshed, natural-looking appearance that lasts for years.

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Why Choose Dr. Alemi for Your Facelift in NYC?

Our practice is built on compassion, integrity, and a commitment to your overall wellness. Dr. Alemi listens to your concerns and collaborates to create a customized facelift plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals. From the initial consultation to post-surgery care, our team is dedicated to providing an empowering, supportive experience. 

  • Graduated top of his class from the UC Irvine School of Medicine
  • Double board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
  • Completed Head and Neck Surgery residency at UCSF with extensive research, publications, and national presentations
  • Completed fellowship with world-renowned facelift expert Dr. Andrew Jacono; invited to join his prestigious practice as an associate 
  • Performed 100+ pro-bono reconstructive surgeries for children with cleft lip and palate on international surgical missions

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Alemi to learn more about facelift surgery.

Facelift FAQs

Is a facelift painful?

How many facelift appointments will I need?

When will I see my final results?

How long will my results last?

Are there any risks associated with a facelift?

Will I have any visible scars?

What procedures can be combined with a facelift?

Are there any non-surgical alternatives?

Is a facelift painful?

Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort during the first few days after surgery. Dr. Alemi provides pain management options to keep you comfortable throughout your recovery.

How many facelift appointments will I need?

You’ll typically have a pre-operative consultation, the surgery day, and several follow-up visits over the first few months to monitor healing and results.

When will I see my final results?

Initial swelling and bruising improve within a few weeks, but it can take up to a year for all swelling to fully resolve and for your final results to appear.

How long will my results last?

Results from a facelift can last many years, especially when supported by a healthy lifestyle, good skincare, and sun protection. However, natural aging will continue.

Are there any risks associated with a facelift?

As with any surgery, facelifts carry risks such as infection, bleeding, scarring, and anesthesia complications. Choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Alemi helps minimize these risks.

Will I have any visible scars?

Incisions are strategically placed along natural creases and hairlines to minimize visibility. Over time, scars fade and become barely noticeable.

What procedures can be combined with a facelift?

Facelifts are often combined with neck lifts, eyelid surgery, fat transfer, or skin resurfacing treatments to enhance overall facial rejuvenation.

Are there any non-surgical alternatives?

Yes, options like dermal fillers, Botox, lasers, and various skin tightening treatments can provide subtle rejuvenation, but do not offer the long-lasting results of a facelift.

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Testimonials

"I finally found the surgeon I had been looking for."

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From the moment I visited Dr. Alemi’s office for my initial consultation, I felt at ease, from Chrissy, his assistant, who greeted me to the warm, welcoming, and thoroughly professional way Dr. Alemi listened to my concerns about rejuvenating my face. It has been only fo...

Dr. Alemi is the most humble, caring, and personable doctor—personal qualities not often found in surgeons of his caliber. I am grateful he was my doctor, and I highly recommend him to anyone considering facial rejuvenation. He is simply the best!!

I have been so delighted with the results and the experience I have had with Dr. Alemi and all his wonderful staff. I was well prepared for what to expect. The anesthesiologist, surgical nurses, and post-op nurses were all so caring. They are clearly seasoned professionals who...

My experience with Dr. Alemi and his staff was fantastic! It’s a two-fold experience: one part is the medical/surgical, and the other is the personal treatment. I had an upper and lower blepharoplasty, a ptosis repair in both eyes and an endoscopic brow lift. My results ...

I was anxious and nervous about the surgery, the results, recovery, etc. I ask many questions and thank goodness Dr. Alemi is patient and calm. I never felt that any question I had was too silly or unnecessary—he was so kind and informative. I needed reassurance, and he ...

Dr. Alemi performed my deep plane facelift, neck lift, lip lift, and eyelid surgery almost five months ago. I can’t thank him enough for his excellent care throughout the process. His patience and kindness are nothing short of remarkable. I’ll be 62 years old this ...

Living in Southern California, I have many choices for plastic surgeons. After a year of interviews and consults, I chose Dr. Alemi for many reasons …I am one week post-op, and I CANNOT BELIEVE the true joy I feel. His nurses, surgery, and he himself are second to none....

My experience working in the Aesthetics field allowed me to talk with colleagues from other states. I spoke with different doctors and found practices that charge less for facelifts. However, my priority was to find a doctor who’s very experienced in platysmaplasty and d...

I can’t say enough great things about Dr. Alemi and his wonderful staff. My experience here exceeded all expectations. Dr. Alemi is a true artist and miracle worker. I look about 20 years younger and couldn’t be happier with my results. He is the kindest and warmes...

Deciding whether or not to take the leap to have cosmetic surgery on my face was a difficult decision that I contemplated for a few years. After all, this is my face, and there is no hiding a bad outcome. To try to avoid a bad result, I tried many non-invasive procedures that ...

I think what stands out to me the most is the empathy and integrity Dr. Alemi demonstrated as a professional and a person. The levels of care that were offered to me before, during, and after the procedure were stellar! I’m almost two months post-op, and I could not be h...

I have been so delighted with the results and the experience I have had with Dr Alemi and ALL of the wonderful staff. I was well prepared for what to expect. The anesthesiologist, surgical nurses, and post-op nurses were all so caring. They are clearly seasoned professionals w...

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