Facelift
In Chicago & Glenview, IL
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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Facelift Surgery
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Facelift Surgery
What is the difference between a minilift and an 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.
How long will the facelift results last?
Will I have visible scars?
Am I too old for a facelift?
What are the risks of facelift surgery?
How painful is facelift surgery?
For those that do require relief after the first 24-48 hours after surgery, Tylenol typically is more than sufficient.
Where will my facelift be performed?
Will I have bruising after my facelift?
How long does it take for the swelling to resolve after a facelift?
When can I resume exercise after a facelift?
When can I go back to work after my facelift?
When can I fly after my facelift?
If I want to lose weight, should I wait to get my facelift?
Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials
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.
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.
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Related
Blogs
10 Facelift Myths Everyone Should Stop Believing
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to reduce visible signs of aging in the face and neck. By tightening underlying muscles, removing excess skin, and smoothing deep wrinkles, a facelift restores a more youthful and refreshed appearance. However, several facelift misconceptions persist, often deterring individuals from considering this…
Can I Combine a Mini Facelift with Eyelid Surgery?
If you’ve been considering a mini facelift but feel like your eyes could use a refresh, you might wonder whether you can combine procedures. The short answer? Yes, and it’s actually quite common. Pairing a mini facelift with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can create a balanced, youthful look while minimizing overall…
Why a Mini Facelift May Be the Perfect Solution for You
When it comes to facelift procedures, there are a range you can choose from. The lowest in the range is what we call a “mini facelift.” A mini facelift is typically chosen by patients who have noticed a loss of skin elasticity and muscle tone in their neck and face…
The Perfect Pair: Facelift and Neck Lift for Total Rejuvenation
Over the course of time, our skin can lose its elasticity from the combined effects of aging, lifestyle, and gravity. Our face and neck are particularly vulnerable to these effects. In time, loose, saggy skin will gather give your facial profile a saggy and appealing look. Trying to hide these…
Interested in a Less Invasive Facelift? Consider the S-Lift
A facelift can help eliminate fine lines, wrinkles, and folds from the face, trim away loose skin that sags, remove deposits of excess fat, and tighten the underlying facial muscles. It can reverse the signs of aging and help you look much younger than your actual age. A facelift can…
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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.