With time, aging changes around the face and neck become more and more apparent. Many people experience a disconnect when they feel youthful and energetic on the inside, but look tired and sagging on the outside. The facelift is the gold standard for removing those signs of aging and restoring your confidence.
Dr. Goretti Ho Taghva is an Orange County plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation. With expertise in a range of facelift techniques, she’s determined to tailor your facelift to your specific concerns and goals.
If You’re Concerned With
- Loose facial skin
- Loss of elasticity in your neck
- Sagging jowls
- Undefined jawline
- Sunken cheeks
And Your Goal Is To
- Look decades younger
- Achieve visibly firmer skin
- Smooth out deep wrinkles
- Contour your jawline
- Reduce smile lines
Facelift surgery may be the perfect solution for you.
What is a Facelift?
Facelift is a type of cosmetic surgery that tightens up sagging cheeks and jowls and smooths out wrinkles and folds around your jawline and neck. Dr. Ho Taghva makes precise, well hidden incisions, removes and pulls back loose, excess skin, and tightens up the muscles underneath. The result? A younger, brighter, fresher-looking you.
If you’re near Orange County and ready to…
- Reverse those stubborn effects of aging such as sagging jowls, a droopy “turkey gobbler” neck, and smile lines that seem to creep up with time.
- Discover newfound confidence in your appearance which leads you to blossom at work, social events, and around your family at home.
- Look like you’ve just returned from a rejuvenation vacation.
- Achieve natural results that can last more than 5 years longer than traditional facelift results.
Dr. Ho Taghva is guaranteed to have you covered.
According to an article in the National Library of Medicine, only 5% of plastic surgeons in the US specialize in the deep plane facelift, the most advanced facial rejuvenation technique available today. Dr. Ho Taghva is one of the few.
Here at LEA Plastic Surgery, our goal is to give you the best possible results. We know that to do so, we need to take our time listening to your goals and educating you on our recommendations for surgery and aftercare.
If you’ve been considering a facelift in Newport Beach but don’t feel confident enough in your decision or with any of the surgeons you’ve come across, this is your sign to at least schedule your consultation. Some patients regret waiting years before deciding to have a procedure for fear of unsatisfactory results.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
The deep plane facelift is a sophisticated approach to facial aging that delves far beneath the skin’s surface for profound transformations that exceed superficial adjustments. Men and women throughout Orange County in search of natural, dramatic and enduring results choose this technique.
The deep plane facelift is so effective in comparison to other facial rejuvenation techniques because it targets the layer even further below the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer.
During the traditional facelift, plastic surgeons trim, lift and adjust the skin and SMAS layer separately. The deep plane facelift elevates the skin, muscles, and SMAS as a single comprehensive unit, promoting a less invasive surgery and longer-lasting results.
Why Deep Plane Facelift?
What makes a deep plane facelift special is it targets far beneath the superficial layers of skin to restore a youthful contour and reduce facial wrinkles and folds. It completely resets the entire underlying framework of the face and neck, leaving behind a defined jawline, a smoother appearance of the midface down to the neck, and a younger-looking facial structure.
Many people fear the “F” word because they believe every facelift leads to the overstretched, windswept look that screams plastic surgery. But a deep plane facelift will not give you this result. Patients love it for the natural, yet dramatic results it delivers.
Am I a Candidate for Facelift?
As with any facial plastic surgery, best candidates are in good overall health and do not smoke. Ideal facelift candidates are typically women and men who have more pronounced signs of aging such as the following:
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Significant jowling
- Puffy under eye bags
- Sagging cheeks
- Skin laxity in the neck
Everyone ages at different speeds, so there is not necessarily an ideal age for deep plane facelift. If you’re in your late 50s, 60s or beyond and have moderate to severe facial aging, facelift is probably your best bet. If you are in your 40s or early 50s and only notice moderate aging changes, though, you may benefit enough from a mini facelift.
Facelift Before-and-After Pictures
How is a Deep Plane Facelift Different From a Traditional Facelift?
You may have come across the debate of deep plane facelift vs. facelift and whether one holds superiority over the other. The answer, however, varies depending on the experience of the surgeon and the specific needs and goals of the patient.
A key differentiator between deep plane facelift and traditional methods is the release of four ligaments that keep underlying tissues and muscles intact. By resuspending the entire face, this procedure yields a natural-looking, yet striking rejuvenation to the face and neck. As the traditional facelift does not address these ligaments, some individuals may experience a “stretched” appearance following the less advanced procedure.
The primary distinction between a deep plane and traditional facelift lies in complexity. While the SMAS facelift tends to be more suitable for individuals with moderate signs of aging such as sagging cheeks or jowls, the deep plane facelift is the preferred choice for patients dealing with more pronounced appearances of these effects.
Unlike the traditional facelift, which primarily focuses on removing sagging skin and excess fat and lifting the superficial tissues, the deep plane facelift goes beyond by repositioning and restoring deeper underlying facial and neck structures in conjunction with superficial layers. This comprehensive approach results in more significant improvements in the following:
- Smoothing of deep wrinkles and folds
- Adjustments of muscles to eliminate neck bands
- Complete rejuvenation of the superficial layers down to those beneath the SMAS
5 Steps to a Rejuvenated Face
01
Fill out our quick and easy form
Whether you prefer our simple form or a phone call, we’ll help you get started on your journey with us as soon as possible.
One of our kind and knowledgeable patient coordinators will chat with you 1-on-1 to answer any questions or concerns you may have before booking a consultation.
02
Schedule a Consultation
Once you get in our books, you’ll be just a hop, skip, and a jump away from your dream results.
One of our patient coordinators will happily work with you to find a time that works for both you and Dr. Taghva to discuss your goals, answer any questions you may have, and evaluate your candidacy for deep plane facelift.
By the end of your consultation, you should have a pretty solid idea of your treatment plan and next steps.
03
Surgery Day
Dr. Taghva will perform your surgery at our fully-accredited, State-of-the-Art private surgery center, guaranteeing you have a safe, comfortable and discreet experience with us. If you have any last-minute jitters, no worries!
Dr. Taghva will connect with you shortly on the day of your surgery.
04
Recovery
We provide detailed instructions on how to care for yourself after your deep plane facelift.
To ensure your recovery is smooth-sailing, we’ll check in with you consistently. You should feel normal enough to go out and about again within a week.
05
Show off those results
While most patients feel confident enough to go out in 5-7 days, your results will just keep improving over the following months.
While you will look totally natural, be ready for the compliments!
“I am now able to look people in the face and not be self conscious about how I look. My personal life and my professional career have flourished and I look forward to what the future may hold.”
Facelift patient
How is a Facelift Performed?
During Newport Beach facelift surgery, Dr. Ho Taghva makes a small incision near your temples, goes down behind your ear, and back up again.
Next, it’s time to sculpt. Any extra fat gets whisked away, and the deeper layers of your face get a little lift. The loose skin is then tucked and tightened, giving you a smoother, more youthful look.
For many people, a neck lift is also part of the plan. This involves a small incision under your chin to tighten things up there too. If you want to tackle those eyelids or eyebrows with blepharoplasty or brow lift while you’re at it, this can be done as well. The whole process can take a few hours, but patients are totally comfortable under general anesthesia the entire time
How is a Deep Plane Facelift Performed?
Deep plane facelift incisions are typically made near the ears in the sideburn area, within the natural folds of the ear, and behind the ear along the hairline. Through these incisions, Dr. Ho Taghva operates below the SMAS layer, which is the focus of a traditional rhytidectomy, to meticulously reposition and reshape the tissue at a deeper level.
Despite the intricate manipulation of deep connective tissues and muscles around the jowls and mouth folds, the scars from a deep plane facelift are generally smaller compared to those from a traditional facelift.
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
Despite associated costs, many patients prioritize achieving their aesthetic goals and enjoying the rejuvenating benefits of a facelift, emphasizing the value of investing in a procedure that delivers beautiful, natural-looking results tailored to your individual needs and desired outcome.
Based on reviews from patients on RealSelf, the average cost of a deep plane facelift in 2024 is $17,150, with potential variations from $8,900 to $46,000. 98% of more than 600 patients on RealSelf deem the higher price tag of the deep plane facelift to be worthwhile.
So, how much is a facelift in California? RealSelf says the average cost of a facelift in Los Angeles is $19,482. Keep in mind that this can fluctuate, though, as no two faces are the same and no two Orange County facelifts are the same.
Preparing for Facelift Newport Beach
Being prepared plays a role in your final facelift results. Before your facelift surgery, it’s crucial to follow pre-operative instructions provided by our experienced Newport Beach facelift surgeon.
This may include:
- Getting medical evaluations
- Adjusting medications
- Avoiding smoking and certain medications to minimize risks during the procedure
- Ensuring transportation to and from our state-of-the-art surgical facility ahead of time
By following these guidelines and discussing any concerns during your initial consultation, you can prepare for a successful facelift surgery with natural-looking results.
Various factors come into play when it comes to the cost of a facelift, including the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia type, and any additional treatments involved. Our team is totally transparent and discusses all expenses during your consultation, ensuring you’re fully informed before proceeding.
Facelift Approaches Varying with Age
Facelift in Your 40s: Subtle Rejuvenation
Focus: Early signs of aging like minimal sagging and fine lines.
Approach: Less invasive techniques, possibly mini facelifts or targeted treatments.
Goal: Maintain natural facial contours, and prevent early aging signs.
Facelift in Your 50s: Comprehensive Enhancement
Focus: More pronounced sagging, deeper wrinkles, loss of volume.
Approach: Standard facelift techniques, addressing mid-face and jowls.
Goal: Restore youthful appearance, focus on mid-face rejuvenation.
Facelift in Your 60s and Beyond: Advanced Restoration
Focus: Significant sagging, deep-set wrinkles, prominent jowls.
Approach: More extensive facelifts, possibly combined with neck lifts or other procedures.
Goal: Achieve a significant yet natural-looking lift, and enhance overall facial structure.
General
Considerations
Skin Elasticity: Varies with age, influencing the choice of technique.
Healing Time: Older patients may require longer recovery periods.
Customization: Each facelift should be tailored to individual aging patterns and facial structures.
Traditional Facelift vs. Mini Facelift
In traditional facelift surgery, the scope often extends beyond facial aging concerns, addressing neck skin laxity and jowls. For people only concerned with the mid-face to jawline area, a mini facelift procedure provides a refreshed appearance with minimized scarring and a shorter recovery period, catering to diverse aesthetic goals while ensuring a natural-looking outcome.
Best mini facelift candidates are those who want to restore a youthful contour, but don’t quite need the complex incisions or recovery of a full facelift yet.
What is a Deep Plane Mini Facelift?
Similar to a full deep plane facelift, the appeal of the deep plane mini facelift lies in its ability to reposition and refine the underlying facial tissues without excessive skin tension or an “overly pulled” look.
While the traditional mini facelift may fall short as a standalone solution for individuals with significant aging concerns, the deep plane mini facelift offers the best of both worlds. It combines the benefits of the short incisions of a mini facelift with the dramatic improvements achieved through the deep plane technique.
How Long Does a Facelift Last?
SMAS Facelift Results
A SMAS facelift can look great for about 10 to 15 years, but everyone is different. Factors like your skin type, age, lifestyle, and genetics can affect the longevity of results.
To make your facelift results last as long as possible, treat your skin well. Eat right, get enough sleep, wear sunscreen, and stick to a solid skin care routine. Remember, while a facelift is amazing, it’s not a magic wand. Aging is natural, but a facelift can definitely help you look and feel your best for a long time.
Deep Plane Facelift Results
While the longevity of deep plane facelift results varies depending on individual factors such as genetics, skin type, and lifestyle choices, most patients can expect to enjoy the rejuvenative effects of the procedure for 15 years or longer.
Mini Facelift Results
A mini facelift can look great for about 5 to 10 years, but how long it lasts depends on things like your skin, how old you are, and your lifestyle choices. Taking care of your skin by using sunscreen and eating healthy can help the results last longer.
Remember, a mini facelift is less intense than a full facelift, so the changes won’t be as dramatic or long-lasting.
The Recovery after Facelift Surgery
After a facelift procedure, you can gradually resume normal activities. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Immediately After Facelift Surgery
Inevitability, you will have some bruising and swelling after a facelift. This typically takes 2-3 weeks to fade, although some people recover faster than others. After the surgery, it is crucial to have a friend or family member look after you for at least the first night at home. You should take pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Ho Taghva and avoid strenuous activities.
Two Days After Surgery
On the second day after your surgery, Dr. Ho Taghva will schedule a follow-up visit where she will change the surgical dressing. She will also inspect the incisions. If everything looks normal, she will redress the area and review all post-operative care instructions.
The First Week After Surgery
Generally, by days 4-6, most people can stop taking pain medication. The swelling should have gone down somewhat, and you can start to be more active. In some cases, Dr. Ho Taghva can remove the sutures as early as one week after surgery.
Weeks 2-3 After Surgery
From days 7-14, some swelling and bruising may remain, but it will have subsided significantly.
Some patients may need to wait until the 2-3 week mark to have their sutures removed. Most people are ready to return to work two weeks after surgery, but you will need to postpone exercise for several more weeks.
It’s important to understand that recovery times vary from patient to patient. Listen to Dr. Ho Taghva’s instructions tailored to your personal healing before resuming normal activities to ensure the most effective recovery.
How Long Is Recovery After a Deep Plane Facelift?
The initial deep plane facelift recovery period mirrors that of a traditional facelift, typically lasting around 3 weeks. Oftentimes patients heal even faster after deep plane facelift than a SMAS facelift because it does not involve the lifting of separate layers of tissue.
Immediately following your deep plane facelift, it’s normal to experience initial swelling, bruising, tightness, and discomfort, particularly around the lower face, jawline and neck. These side effects typically diminish day-by-day, with most swelling becoming unnoticeable between 1-3 months post-op.
Any postoperative pain or discomfort can be effectively managed with pain medications prescribed by Dr. Ho Taghva. We also typically recommend patients have medications such as bromelain or arnica on hand during recovery to help minimize swelling and bruising.
During the initial healing phase, drains may be used to prevent fluid buildup beneath the treated skin. If used, these drains are typically removed within a day or two after surgery.
During the first week of deep plane facelift recovery, it’s crucial to care for your facelift
incisions by keeping them clean and moisturized with saline solution and petroleum jelly.
As healing progresses, you can gradually resume normal activities within a few weeks, although residual swelling may persist for several months.
While you may feel eager to resume your regular gym routine soon after your deep plane facelift, we recommend waiting until the 3-4 week mark to avoid complications and ensure best results. Engaging in intense activities too soon can impede your recovery process.
Most deep plane facelift patients notice significant transformation by the six-month mark, with results expected to last over a decade provided proper skin care is maintained.
Here are our tips to a speedy, stress-free facelift recovery:
- Be sure to get plenty of rest in the first week. Avoid strenuous activities and keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to reduce swelling.
- Apply cold compresses gently around the swollen areas for the first 48 hours to minimize swelling.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which is crucial for healing.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and proteins. Include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains to support tissue repair and overall health.
- Steer clear of salty foods to reduce swelling and avoid alcohol as it can interfere with the healing process.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for proper monitoring of your healing process.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Follow specific instructions provided by your surgeon for cleaning and applying any topical medications.
- Take prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, as directed to manage discomfort and prevent infection.
- Gradually resume light activities after the first week. Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for at least 4-6 weeks.
Orange County Facelift Revision
Not happy with your last facelift? You’re not alone. As a revision facelift specialist in Orange County, Dr. Ho Taghva specializes in fixing unsatisfactory results from other surgeons.
Recognizing the unique challenges associated with revision surgery, including scar tissue and skin laxity, Dr. Ho Taghva offers specialized expertise to achieve best results. With a deep understanding of facial anatomy and advanced surgical techniques, she is committed to restoring a harmonious and rejuvenated appearance for patients seeking to improve their initial facelift results.
Holistic Approach to Facial Rejuvenation
We believe in a whole-face approach to looking younger, not just one quick fix. A facelift can be amazing, but it’s not always the answer for everyone. That’s why we combine surgery like eyelid surgery with non-surgical treatments like fillers and lasers. It’s all about creating a balanced, natural look. Our secret? Years of experience blending modern facelift techniques with the latest filler tricks. The result? A fresher, younger you with minimal scarring.
Keeping Up with the Latest Research
We’re obsessed with staying ahead of the game when it comes to facial rejuvenation. From the newest fillers to the latest facelift techniques, we’re always learning and improving. We love sharing what we know so you can make informed choices about your look. Your consultation is all about education. We’ll break down each type of surgical facelift, liquid facelifts, and more. Our goal is to empower you to look and feel your best.
Customizing Your Facial Rejuvenation: It’s All About You
Facelifts aren’t one-size-fits-all anymore. We tailor them to your unique needs. Need a brow lift or eyelid surgery too? No problem, let’s bundle it in. To really plump things up where you’ve lost volume, we can add some of your own fat back to your face with facial fat transfer. This natural filler gives you a refreshed, youthful look that lasts longer than dermal fillers.
A facelift only tightens things up, though. It doesn’t fix skin quality issues like dark spots or fine lines. That’s where lasers and other skin treatments come in. We can create a total skin transformation to go along with your new lifted look.
Is Facelift Right For You?
No two faces are the same, and everyone ages differently. During your Newport Beach facelift consultation with Dr. Goretti Ho Taghva, she will help you understand which areas of your face need treatment to achieve the best result possible.
Fill out the form below to connect with Dr. Ho Taghva and her team. You should receive a call back within 24 hours.
“I cannot praise doctor Ho Taghva enough for the job done and highly recommend her from every standpoint.”
Deep plane facelift patient
Why Choose Dr. Goretti Ho Taghva for Your Facelift Procedure?
Dr. Goretti Ho Taghva, a board-certified plastic surgeon with training from Brown University and USC, brings extensive experience to each procedure.
With experience living in both Hong Kong and the U.S., along with specialized training in Korea, she brings a broad perspective on beauty standards that she thoughtfully incorporates into her work.
As one of the few female plastic surgeons in her specialty, she’s a top choice for facial plastic surgery in the Los Angeles area. Her expertise in deep plane facelifts is especially notable, with fewer than 5% of surgeons able to perform this advanced technique.
As a mother of three, she understands the changes that come with aging and focuses on delivering natural, lasting results over trends.
With Dr. Ho Taghva, you get technical expertise paired with a personal touch, ensuring your facelift enhances your natural beauty in a way that feels authentic.
See other videos
Is Facelift Surgery Safe? Common Risks and Complications
While facelift results can be transformative, it’s important to be aware of the risks. Dr. Goretti Ho Taghva explains the possible side effects and complications of the procedure.
Are Facelift Results Permanent?
Facelift results don’t last forever. While they can make you look younger, aging naturally continues.
Newport Beach plastic surgeon Dr. Goretti Ho Taghva takes a holistic approach, suggesting regular exercise, healthy eating, and treatments like facials and chemical peels to maintain results.
Non-Surgical Skin Tightening: A Viable Alternative to Facelift Surgery?
Treatments like Thermage and laser therapy offer less invasive options for tightening and refreshing the skin without scars or downtime, perfect for those noticing early signs of aging but not ready for surgery.Dr. Ho Taghva’s Orange County patients are happy with the improvements and appreciate the chance to try
What is the best age to get a facelift
Dr. Ho Taghva says the best time for a facelift depends on how fast you age and what you want your face to look like. For most people, between 55 and 65 is a good age. By then, most women have gone through menopause and noticed some changes. Some people, however, might need a facelift sooner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Facelift
How long does it take to recover from facelift surgery?
The recovery time is different for everyone, but the bruising and swelling should last only about two to three weeks. During this recovery process, you may not be ready to return to work, but you should feel much better after the first few days.u003cbru003eDuring the recovery period, Dr. Ho Taghva will provide close monitoring and checkups to ensure the best possible outcome. She will give you specific instructions on how to care for the area after surgery and may recommend certain medications or activities to aid in the healing process. Patients should follow her instructions closely to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Will my post-surgery scars be visible?
A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will minimize the appearance of facelift scars. By carefully placing incisions in discreet areas, such as beneath the hairline or behind the ears, the surgeon can effectively conceal any resulting scars. Following your post-operative instructions, including proper wound care, and avoiding strenuous activities also play a crucial role in preventing irregular scarring or infections. It is essential to choose an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in facelift procedures to ensure optimal results and a successful, minimally visible outcome. With the right surgeon and personalized treatment plan, you can achieve your desired youthful appearance with the natural-looking results you desire.
Do men and women receive different treatments?
Regardless of gender, the goal of a facelift is the same; however, the surgical approach varies. When aiming to restore a more youthful look, men and women typically have different expectations regarding how their specific facial characteristics will be treated by the procedure. Men usually show more interest in getting a detailed facial outline, such as a slender jawline. Women have the same wish for improved definition but generally want a subtler effect. The incision sites may also differ depending on the person’s gender. For males whose hairline is beginning to draw back, the cuts may be made in regions other than those generally applied in facelift surgery.
Are the results permanent? How long do the results last?
A full facelift provides dramatic results that can last up to 15 years, and it can help to slow down the facial aging process. The results of mini facelift surgery last between two to six years on average. By following a healthy lifestyle and a consistent skincare routine, the effects of facelift surgery can last many years. The aging process cannot be stopped, but a facelift can offer a kind of “reset” for your appearance. Facelift surgery can help you restore your youthful appearance, so it’s crucial to maintain the effects by eating a healthy diet, managing your weight, wearing sunscreen when outdoors, and following an effective skin care regimen.
What is the age reduction I can expect after a facelift?
People often find that a facelift gives them features that make them look 10–15 years younger, with the potential results enhanced with complementary surgeries like eyelid lifts and other facial enhancements to create an overall more youthful look.
What is a non-surgical facelift?
While there are no non-surgical options that can replicate the results of a surgical facelift, there are effective alternatives for patients with less severe facial aging or less sagging skin. Non-surgical “facelift” procedures include non-invasive techniques to address fine lines, deep creases, sunken cheeks, etc. Some of the available treatment options for people who are unable or unwilling to undergo surgery include:
Thread lifting
Vivace (microneedling enhanced with radiofrequency energy) with growth factors
Laser skin resurfacing
Liquid facelift with dermal fillers
Botox
Chemical peels
What facelift office is near me?
If you live near Newport Beach, CA, LEA Plastic Surgery offers upper blepharoplasty among its services, and is conveniently located at 20360 SW Birch Street Suite 180 Newport Beach, CA 92660
Contact us
Call 949-945-2168 today or submit the form below. We look forward to helping you reach your cosmetic surgery goals.
We have fluent translators available for these languages: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Khmer. 中文 / KO / VI
