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Elevating Beauty Through Expertise

At Boston Center for Plastic Surgery, we believe that the most beautiful results come from restoring what time has altered, not from changing who you are. Our team of double board-certified facial plastic surgeons and aesthetic experts are leaders in cutting-edge techniques like the vertical facelift, offering a refined, natural-looking lift tailored to your unique anatomy. We are proud to be a Harvard Medical School Residency Teaching Location, and our practice philosophy emphasizes patient comfort, education, and satisfaction.

Trust our team to deliver artfully subtle, balanced rejuvenation that preserves your individuality. Meet with our expert team and begin your personalized facial rejuvenation journey today.

What is a Vertical Facelift?

A vertical facelift is a modern surgical technique designed to lift the face in an upward vector rather than pulling it back horizontally. This approach repositions the underlying facial muscles and fat pads vertically, addressing sagging cheeks, nasolabial folds, jowls, and neck laxity with a more youthful, natural contour. It focuses on deep tissue structures for longer-lasting, more organic results.

Benefits of a Vertical Facelift

  • Natural-looking enhancement: Elevates facial features without the “pulled” appearance.
  • Restores youthful contours: Particularly effective for midface and jawline rejuvenation.
  • Long-lasting results: Repositions deep facial tissues for improved longevity.
    Minimal scarring: Incisions are discreetly placed along the hairline and ear.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Vertical Facelift?

You may be a good candidate if:

  • You are in good general health with realistic expectations
  • You have visible facial aging such as sagging cheeks, jowls, or deep folds
  • You want a more youthful look without obvious signs of surgery
  • You prefer a conservative and natural enhancement that complements your features
  • You are seeking a customized approach that can be adapted for your facial structure and skin tone

Vertical vs. Traditional Facelifts

Traditional facelifts are a time-tested method that improve sagging skin and deep folds, particularly along the lower face and neck. Vertical facelifts offer a modern alternative, repositioning facial tissues upward to better reflect the natural direction of facial aging. This approach can provide enhanced results in the midface while maintaining a soft, natural contour. Both techniques are effective, and the right choice depends on your unique facial anatomy and rejuvenation goals.

Why Choose Boston Center for a Vertical Facelift?

  • Home to board-certified plastic surgeons and facial specialists with deep experience in advanced facelift techniques
  • Pioneers in natural-looking results and minimally invasive surgical strategies
  • Full-service surgical and non-surgical care under one roof for customized treatment plans
  • Trusted by Harvard Medical School for surgical education and resident training
  • Patient-centered philosophy emphasizing honest guidance, compassionate care, and technical excellence
  • Our team includes specialists experienced in treating patients of all backgrounds and ethnicities with respect to facial harmony and unique anatomical considerations
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I have seen Dr. Miller for 30 years. He is extraordinarily capable and a true artisan of beauty. He balances effectiveness and subtlety with minimal invasion and downtime. The mini facelift he performs is remarkable. It took ten years off my face and neck. I had this done on Wednesday and was at work on Monday.

K.T.

Your Consultation

We view consultations as partnerships. During your visit, your surgeon will listen to your goals, assess your facial structure, and explain the best options to achieve rejuvenation. Every question will be answered, and your customized plan will prioritize safety, comfort, and natural results.

How Much Does it Cost?

Vertical facelift pricing varies based on individual anatomy, complexity, and whether it is combined with other procedures such as eyelid surgery or neck lift. After your consultation, we will provide a personalized quote. Financing options are available.

What to Expect During a Vertical Facelift

Vertical facelifts are performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the plan. The procedure involves incisions around the ears and possibly into the hairline, through which deep facial structures are elevated vertically. Most surgeries take 3–5 hours, and patients return home the same day with full post-operative instructions.

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Vertical Facelift Recovery and Results

Swelling and bruising typically peak within the first week and gradually resolve over 2–3 weeks. Most patients feel comfortable returning to social activities in 10–14 days. Results continue to refine over several months, revealing a more lifted, refreshed appearance that looks entirely natural. Most patients enjoy their results for 7 to 10 years before any additional maintenance might be considered.

Refinements Within the Vertical Facelift Approach

Depending on your facial anatomy and goals, your surgeon may recommend:

  • Deep Plane Vertical Facelift: Targets deeper structures for more comprehensive correction.
  • Vertical Mini Facelift: A less invasive option for early signs of aging.
  • Vertical Facelift with Fat Grafting: Restores volume to hollowed areas for a fuller, youthful contour.

Related Procedures to Consider

To enhance results or address additional areas of concern, many patients combine their vertical facelift with:

  • Neck lift
  • Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
  • Brow lift
  • Lip lift
  • Laser skin resurfacing
  • Injectable treatments such as dermal fillers or BOTOX

Vertical Facelift FAQs

What type of anesthesia is used during a vertical facelift?

Can I wear makeup after a vertical facelift?

Will I need someone to stay with me after the procedure?

How soon before a special event should I schedule a vertical facelift?

Can men undergo a vertical facelift?

Are there any age restrictions for a vertical facelift?

Is the vertical facelift safe for patients with previous facial surgery?

Will the vertical facelift affect facial expressions?

Can I combine a vertical facelift with skin treatments like microneedling or lasers?

Do results from a vertical facelift look different in photos?

What type of anesthesia is used during a vertical facelift?

We typically use general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure and your medical history.

Can I wear makeup after a vertical facelift?

Makeup can generally be worn about two weeks after surgery, once incisions have healed sufficiently and any major swelling or bruising has subsided.

Will I need someone to stay with me after the procedure?

Yes, we recommend having a responsible adult with you for the first 24 hours post-surgery to assist with mobility, medications, and initial recovery care.

How soon before a special event should I schedule a vertical facelift?

Ideally, schedule your procedure at least 8–12 weeks before a major event to allow time for full recovery and optimal results.

Can men undergo a vertical facelift?

Absolutely. Vertical facelifts can be tailored to male patients to preserve masculine features while achieving a rejuvenated appearance.

Are there any age restrictions for a vertical facelift?

There is no strict age limit, but most candidates are between 40 and 70. Good health and realistic expectations are more important than age.

Is the vertical facelift safe for patients with previous facial surgery?

In many cases, yes. Our surgeons will evaluate your history and discuss if a revision or vertical lift is appropriate for your anatomy and goals.

Will the vertical facelift affect facial expressions?

No, a properly performed vertical facelift preserves your natural expressiveness while subtly enhancing facial contours and tightness.

Can I combine a vertical facelift with skin treatments like microneedling or lasers?

Yes. Many patients combine surgical and non-surgical treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation. These treatments are typically done before or after the healing period.

Do results from a vertical facelift look different in photos?

Photos often capture the refreshed look well, but the most noticeable change is typically how youthful and rested you appear in person.

An Invitation to Discover Your Best Self

Your face tells your story—let it reflect your vitality. At Boston Center for Plastic Surgery, we offer compassionate, patient-focused care that blends art and science. Whether you’re looking to subtly refresh or dramatically rejuvenate, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Call us today to schedule your consultation and experience the Boston Center difference.

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