Facelift
In Chicago & Glenview, IL

Q: What is the difference between a minilift and an S-lift?

“Facelift” is a generalized term indicating a procedure designed to improve the appearance and tighten the tissues of the face and neck. There are many procedures and procedure names that fit into this category. Some are trademarked names, and some may be common terms such as minilift and S-lift. At , a minilift is a minimally invasive procedure to improve the appearance of the lower face and neck. It is generally performed under local anesthesia and takes about one and a half to two hours to complete. An S-lift is a similar procedure, but it is geared towards patients who are interested in and who would benefit from additional tightening of the face and neck (i.e. larger “turkey neck”). This surgery is commonly done under twilight anesthesia and takes between two and three hours to complete.

Q: How long will the facelift results last?

Results will commonly last for five to ten years depending on a number of factors, such as patient anatomy and environmental and social influences. Sun exposure, smoking history, and skin quality can have an impact on the duration of the effects.

Q: Will I have visible scars?

The healed scars are often difficult to see since they are camouflaged in the creases and folds of the ear and under the chin.

Q: Am I too old for a facelift?

Minimally invasive procedures can be safely performed under local or twilight anesthesia on patients in their 30s through their 80s.

Q: What are the risks of facelift surgery?

These procedures are generally very safe. As with any procedure, there are risks involved. Risks may include, among other things, bleeding, infection, wound-healing issues, scarring, injury to muscles and nerves, and anesthetic reactions. The recovery is usually three to ten days depending on the extent of the procedure, but periodically, it can be prolonged.

Q: How painful is facelift surgery?

Most patients only require a mild prescription pain reliever the first 24-48 hours after surgery. After this time, most patients require no pain medications at all. For those that do require relief after the first 24-48 hours after surgery, Tylenol typically is more than sufficient.

Q: Where will my facelift be performed?

The procedures are performed in our state-of-the-art AAAHC-accredited surgery center in North Shore, IL.

Q: Will I have bruising after my facelift?

The extent of bruising varies among patients. Some patients have very minimal bruising and some have more extensive bruising. Avoiding certain medications before surgery and following the instructions after surgery can help minimize bruising.

Q: How long does it take for the swelling to resolve after a facelift?

The extent of swelling also varies widely among patients. Again, some patients have minimal swelling that lasts only a few days and others may have prolonged swelling that slowly diminishes over a period of several weeks.

Q: When can I resume exercise after a facelift?

Light exercise such as walking is usually recommended several days after the procedure. Activity can be progressively increased after one week depending on the patient and the extent of the procedure.

Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago & Glenview, IL is led by Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is quadruple board-certified.

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Medically reviewed for accuracy.

On This Page
Facelift Surgery

What is a Facelift
Facelift Before and After Results
Types of Facelift
Who is an Ideal Candidate
The Facelift Process
Learn More About Facelift Recovery
What is the Cost of Facelift
Why Choose Dr. Rachel
FAQ’s About Facelift
Chicago Aesthetics Reviews & Testimonials

Restore
Youthful Contours

A facelift is a surgical procedure that restores youthful contours to the face and neck by tightening underlying tissues and smoothing sagging skin. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & MedSpa, treatments are customized to deliver natural-looking rejuvenation while preserving your unique facial expression.

What is a
Facelift

The facelift, or rhytidectomy, is the third most common facial plastic surgery performed in the United States. As we age, crow’s feet become visible near our eyes. The near-invisible lines on the forehead become prominent, and the jawline sags. Some people experience the emergence of a “second chin.” Unfortunately, we must all deal with these negative aspects of gravity that come with age.

Choosing to get a facelift offers a boost in both appearance and self-esteem. We have the technology, it’s up to you to learn more and take the next step toward a more youthful you. A facelift can do wonders for your face, taking years off and tightening loose folds, and can also be combined with a number of other procedures for an overall rejuvenated, younger look.

When choosing a surgeon for your facelift remember that experience counts. A facelift is a challenging procedure that requires an understanding of facial aesthetics, extensive knowledge regarding facial aging, vast experience in facial anatomy, and an artistic sense to achieve a natural appearing transformation. Dr. Rachel is a uniquely qualified surgeon who is quadruple board certified in facial plastic surgery, facial cosmetic surgery, cosmetic surgery, and otolaryngology head and neck surgery. A facelift from Dr. Rachel in Chicago achieves natural-looking results that look like you – natural. Dr. Rachel is recognized for his exceptional surgical talents and for consistently achieving sophisticated and elegant outcomes.

Young adult couple in love in outdoor leisure activity admiring travel destination.

Before & After
Facelift Surgery Results

Experience the difference for yourself—our before & after gallery showcases thousands of successful surgeries and satisfied patients. It’s no surprise that Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa surgeons are recognized among the top cosmetic plastic surgeons in Chicago, Illinois. See why so many trust us for their transformations.

mini facelift before and after photo by chicago aesthetics surgery & med spa in chicago, il

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Types of
Facelift

Facelift Type	Best For Addressing	Ideal Candidate Profile	Recovery Time	Longevity of Results	Anesthesia
Full Facelift (Traditional)					General or Twilight
Deep Plane Facelift	Severe sagging, deep nasolabial folds, and mid-face drooping.	Patients 45+ with significant skin laxity seeking natural, long-term results.	2–3 Weeks	10–15 Years	General or Twilight
SMAS Facelift	Lower face sagging and jowl formation.	Patients with moderate sagging who need muscle tightening, not just skin pulling.	1–2 Weeks	7–10 Years	General or Twilight
Mini Facelift	Minor jowling and loose skin along the jawline.	Younger patients (30s–40s) needing a "refresh" before severe aging sets in.	5–7 Days	3–7 Years	Local with Sedation
Mini Tuck Up
Ponytail Lift	Temple region, brow heaviness, and upper cheek sagging.	Patients wanting a "snatched" look without visible scars in front of the ears.	1 Week	5–7 Years
Liquid Facelift (Non-Surgical Fillers)	Loss of volume, fine lines, and minor asymmetry.	Anyone seeking immediate results without surgery; maintenance required.	< 24 Hours	6–12 Months	Local
Sofwave	Provides a non-surgical lift to the eyebrows, cheeks, and neck, improving jawline definition.	Anyone experiencing mild to moderate skin aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and slight skin laxity	< 24 Hours	6–18 Months	Local

Why Choose
Dr. Rachel

You want a clear recommendation, realistic expectations, and results that still look like you. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview, we start with an anatomy-led plan based on your goals. We’ll tell you what we think will work, what won’t, and why. We explain your options in plain language, including what we would not recommend, so you can feel confident with your decision.

Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He is quadruple board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. He completed residency training in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at Wayne State/Detroit Medical Center and a Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery fellowship at the Beeson Cosmetic Surgery Institute. He has been in practice since 2001, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and has published peer-reviewed research in facial plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation.

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Dr. Rachel and his team at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview

Frequently Asked Questions
Facelift Surgery

K

L

What is the difference between a minilift and an S-lift?

“Facelift” is a generalized term indicating a procedure designed to improve the appearance and tighten the tissues of the face and neck. There are many procedures and procedure names that fit into this category. Some are trademarked names, and some may be common terms such as minilift and S-lift.

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, a minilift is a minimally invasive procedure to improve the appearance of the lower face and neck. It is generally performed under local anesthesia and takes about one and a half to two hours to complete.

An S-lift is a similar procedure, but it is geared towards patients who are interested in and who would benefit from additional tightening of the face and neck (i.e. larger “turkey neck”). This surgery is commonly done under twilight anesthesia and takes between two and three hours to complete.

K

L

How long will the facelift results last?

Results will commonly last for five to ten years depending on a number of factors, such as patient anatomy and environmental and social influences. Sun exposure, smoking history, and skin quality can have an impact on the duration of the effects.

K

L

Will I have visible scars?

The healed scars are often difficult to see since they are camouflaged in the creases and folds of the ear and under the chin.

K

L

Am I too old for a facelift?

Minimally invasive procedures can be safely performed under local or twilight anesthesia on patients in their 30s through their 80s.

K

L

What are the risks of facelift surgery?

These procedures are generally very safe. As with any procedure, there are risks involved. Risks may include, among other things, bleeding, infection, wound-healing issues, scarring, injury to muscles and nerves, and anesthetic reactions. The recovery is usually three to ten days depending on the extent of the procedure, but periodically, it can be prolonged.

K

L

How painful is facelift surgery?

Most patients only require a mild prescription pain reliever the first 24-48 hours after surgery. After this time, most patients require no pain medications at all.

For those that do require relief after the first 24-48 hours after surgery, Tylenol typically is more than sufficient.

K

L

Where will my facelift be performed?

The procedures are performed in our state-of-the-art AAAHC-accredited surgery center in North Shore, IL.

K

L

Will I have bruising after my facelift?

The extent of bruising varies among patients. Some patients have very minimal bruising and some have more extensive bruising. Avoiding certain medications before surgery and following the instructions after surgery can help minimize bruising.

K

L

How long does it take for the swelling to resolve after a facelift?

The extent of swelling also varies widely among patients. Again, some patients have minimal swelling that lasts only a few days and others may have prolonged swelling that slowly diminishes over a period of several weeks.

K

L

When can I resume exercise after a facelift?

Light exercise such as walking is usually recommended several days after the procedure. Activity can be progressively increased after one week depending on the patient and the extent of the procedure.

K

L

When can I go back to work after my facelift?

Depending on the extent of surgery and post-operative bruising, some patients will return to work as soon as three to four days after the procedure and others will be out for two weeks.

K

L

When can I fly after my facelift?

It is advisable to avoid flying for at least 72 hours after the procedure.

K

L

If I want to lose weight, should I wait to get my facelift?

It is generally unnecessary to lose weight first unless significant weight loss is planned. Commonly, patients who have the procedure prior to weight loss use the improved appearance for motivation for healthier living and weight loss.

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

    Excellent4.8266 reviews
 4.8
 Excellent266 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
   
 
 
       
   Sara Glover 
 October 24, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited Carol for treatment on my forehead using dysport. Carol was kind & quick, making sure my experience was comfortable! It was my first time receiving any form of injectables & Carol was able to ease my mind by answering all of my questions with patience & pure knowledge! Carol has years of experience & im so grateful she was my injector! I recommend everyone be treated by Carol for injectables!
  
 
      
   Nathaly Acuna 
 October 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone from the Doctors to staff, are amazingly professional and so sweet! Dr. Rachael’s knowledge and bedside manner make you feel so comfortable and at ease. I can’t recommend them enough!
  
 
      
   Monica Correa 
 October 19, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really liked how the staff treated me. Everyone was very kind and professional, and they made me feel comfortable and well cared for throughout the entire experience.
  
 
      
   Barbara Kuczma 
 October 14, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. John Rachel and his staff were wonderful to me. Made sure I was comfortable and kept me informed on everything they were going to do before, during and after my procedure.
I will highly recommend Dr. John Rachel and his wonderful staff.

Thank You,
Barbara Kuczma
  
 
      
   Stamata “Tami” Georgas 
 October 8, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional Talent, Timeless Results, and Unmatched Expertise!

When it comes to aesthetics, excellence is everything, and I can confidently say that Carol is truly in a league of her own.

Her expertise, artistry, and meticulous attention to detail are simply unparalleled. She has an extraordinary ability to enhance natural beauty while maintaining elegance, balance, and sophistication. Her results are consistently flawless, refreshed, and beautifully understated — the true definition of timeless beauty.

What makes Carol exceptional is not only her remarkable skill but also her integrity, professionalism, and genuine dedication to her clients. She understands that the finest aesthetic work is never obvious; it is effortlessly beautiful.

Two decades of loyalty speak for themselves. I trust her implicitly and would never consider putting my face in anyone else’s hands.

She is the epitome of excellence in aesthetic medicine, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. An absolute five-star experience, every single time!
  
 
      
   Danielle 
 October 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. **⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Review**

Stephanie was amazing! She did my laser hair removal treatment and made the entire experience so comfortable and easy. She was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer all of my questions, which really put me at ease. The service was efficient, and I could tell she genuinely cared about providing great results and excellent customer care. I’m so happy with my experience and will definitely be coming back for future treatments. Highly recommend Stephanie to anyone considering laser hair removal!
  
 
      
   TG 
 October 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been coming to Carol for over 20 years, and that longevity truly speaks for itself. I continue to see her because she is incredibly educated, highly skilled, and genuinely listens to what you want and need.

She takes the time to understand your goals and creates a plan that enhances your natural features in a way that feels authentic and balanced. Her work is beautiful,  and refined. The results are always natural and confidence boosting.

Beyond her talent, I trust her completely. After two decades, I can confidently say she is consistent, professional, and truly cares about her patients.

If you're looking for perfection, Carol is definitely the person you should see! Highly recommended!
  
 
      
   Sam 
 October 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alison and Tom are the best. They have a tailored approach and explain what and why they recommend treatments. I’m so excited to be working with them as I head into my bridal era - I know I will look my best with their help. 100000/10 recommend to everyone but especially brides 😃
  
 
      
   Neha Patel 
 September 22, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. New update: I had a wonderful experience with Carol. She was professional, knowledgeable and paid attention to every detail to clearly explain my skin concerns. I’ll definitely be coming back!

The moment I walked into the clinic I felt a happy, welcomed and professional setting. I had my Sofwave treatment with Alison Falada, Master Esthetician and Laser Specialist. She was nothing short of amazing! She was personable, knowledgeable, skilled and detailed throughout the entire experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, addressed all of my my questions and concerns. Alison is an expert and provided great quality service! I love my results and can't wait to book my next appointment with her!
  
 
      
   Chris C 
 September 20, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Carol has been doing my Botox for the last few years. She is kind, easy to talk to, makes herself available and approachable! Always feel at ease when I come see her and she does great work, goes by so fast, we are always done before I even know it. Highly recommend visiting her.

Conditions We Treat

At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery & Med Spa, we know that your goals are personal and your concerns are unique. View our complete guide to the most common concerns we treat and the solutions that deliver safe, natural-looking results.

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We offer surgical & Non-Surgical
Services

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, our team of board-certified cosmetic & plastic surgeons are renowned for their extensive training, unparalleled experience, and dedication to surgical artistry. Our entire staff is committed to helping you elevate your natural beauty and making your transformation journey one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

Take the first step towards your new self today. Schedule your complimentary virtual consultation with Chicago's top plastic surgeons when you sign up online—an exclusive offer valued at $250*.

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Mon & Wed: 9am - 7pm
Tues, Thurs & Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat: 9am - 2pm
Sunday: CLOSED

About Us

Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.

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Facelift In Chicago & Glenview, IL

On This Page Facelift Surgery

RestoreYouthful Contours

What is a Facelift

Before & After Facelift Surgery Results

Types of Facelift

Why Choose Dr. Rachel

Frequently Asked Questions Facelift Surgery