What’s the Best Age to Get a Facelift?

What’s the Best Age to Get a Facelift?A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is one of the most effective surgical procedures for reversing visible signs of facial aging. Many people considering this surgery ask the same question: what’s the best age to get a facelift? While age can provide general guidance, the real answer depends on your individual anatomy, skin quality, and goals. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides facelift to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Typical Age Range for Facelift Patients

Most facelift patients fall between their 40s and 60s, though younger and older patients may also benefit.

  • 40s: Early signs of aging such as mild sagging, loss of jawline definition, and deepening folds. Results tend to look subtle and last longer since skin still has good elasticity.

  • 50s–60s: More advanced aging becomes apparent, including deeper wrinkles, jowls, and loose neck skin. A facelift in this stage often delivers dramatic yet natural improvements.

  • 70s+: Healthy patients can still undergo facelifts, though results may not last as long due to reduced skin elasticity and slower healing.

Signs You May Be Ready for a Facelift

Rather than focusing only on age, look for these changes:

  • Sagging in the midface or jawline

  • Loose skin in the neck (“turkey neck”)

  • Deep nasolabial folds (lines from nose to mouth)

  • Marionette lines (lines from mouth to chin)

  • Jowls obscuring jawline definition

Other Factors That Affect Timing

  • Skin quality: Patients with better elasticity often enjoy longer-lasting results.

  • Overall health: Good candidates are non-smokers in good health with realistic expectations.

  • Lifestyle: Protecting skin from sun damage and maintaining a stable weight help extend results.

Alternatives to Delay Facelift Surgery

If you are not ready for a full facelift, non-surgical treatments may provide temporary improvements:

  • Dermal fillers to restore lost volume

  • Neuromodulators (like Botox®) to soften wrinkles

  • Laser or radiofrequency treatments for skin tightening

  • Thread lifts for mild sagging

Contact Us

If you’re considering a facelift and wondering if it’s the right time, our board-certified surgeon can evaluate your needs and recommend the best approach. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.