Facelift
“Structural facial rejuvenation at the deep tissue plane”
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that addresses facial aging by lifting and repositioning descended soft tissue, muscle, and skin at the deep structural level. Dr. Carlo Honrado performs deep plane facelift in Beverly Hills and Century City, operating at the SMAS level to address the underlying structural contributors to facial aging rather than surface tension alone. The appropriate approach is determined during a formal consultation.
Procedure Overview
Recovery Begins
Days 1–7
Full Recovery
3–6 months
Technique
DEEP PLANE SMAS
Performing Surgeon
Carlo Honrado, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Beverly Hills · Century City
What Facelift Is
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that addresses facial aging by lifting and repositioning descended soft tissue, muscle, and skin. Modern technique goes beyond the skin surface to treat the underlying structural anatomy.
Dr. Honrado's Approach to Facelift
Dr. Honrado performs deep plane facelift technique, which operates at the level of the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and the deep plane. This approach addresses the underlying structural contributors to facial aging rather than surface tension alone.
What Facelift May Address
What Facelift Addresses
The procedure may address jowl formation, midface descent, deepening nasolabial folds, and loss of jawline definition. When indicated, a facelift may be combined with a neck lift to address neck laxity and platysmal banding, which a facelift alone does not fully correct. The appropriate anatomical targets are identified during a formal evaluation.
Facelift Candidacy
Candidacy is determined during a consultation and considers the degree of facial descent, skin quality, overall health status, and individual anatomy. A formal examination is required for personalized assessment.
What to Expect
First week
Days 1–7
Drains (if placed) are typically removed within 24–48 hours. Swelling and bruising are expected. Head elevation and limited activity are required.
Suture removal
Approximately one to two weeks
Sutures are removed in stages as healing progresses. Most patients are comfortable in casual social settings by two to three weeks.
Weeks 3–6
Weeks 3–6
Most daily activities may be resumed. Strenuous exercise and activities that elevate blood pressure should be avoided per Dr. Honrado's guidance.
Final result
3–6 months
Residual firmness and swelling resolve over several months. The final softening of facial contours typically becomes apparent over three to six months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Next Step
Ready to learn if Facelift is right for you?
A formal consultation with Dr. Honrado allows for personalized assessment of your anatomy, goals, and the most appropriate surgical plan.
Book a ConsultationContent reviewed by Carlo Honrado, M.D., F.A.C.S. · 2026-03-30