Whether you have an upcoming facelift on the books or are still considering it, plan for the best possible experience with this board-certified plastic surgeon’s guide to preparing for your Boston facelift procedure.
Proper planning not only sets you up for success but also puts your mind at ease so you can focus on enjoying your refreshed new look. Follow these 5 steps as you get ready for your transformation.
1. Choose the Right Time
Timing is everything when it comes to scheduling your facelift.
Age
Although people have facelifts done at many different ages, you should make sure you are at the right point in the aging process to be a candidate for the surgery. Most people decide they are ready when they notice jowls, lax lower facial tissues, flat cheeks, and deep creases in the skin.
Downtime and Travel
Plan for about 2 weeks of bruising and swelling after your surgery. If you are from out of town, plan to stay in the area for about 2 weeks before flying home. Learn more about social and physical downtime after facelift surgery in this previous blog post.
Seasonal Considerations
Many people consider fall and winter to be “plastic surgery season” in Boston because timing your procedure during these months can make recovery more comfortable and discreet. For example:
- Cooler weather encourages indoor recovery, allowing you to rest without feeling like you’re missing out on Boston’s vibrant outdoor concerts and events.
- Less sun exposure contributes to optimal scar healing, as scar tissue is highly susceptible to sunlight after a facelift.
- Recovery aligns with holiday breaks, making it easier to take time off work or arrange for extra help at home without using up vacation days.
- Results will shine by spring, so you will be ready to show off your refreshed, youthful appearance by the time Boston’s active social season returns.
Read more here about why the holidays are the ideal time of year for “gifting” yourself a cosmetic surgery procedure.
2. Explore Your Financial Options
Having your finances planned out ahead of time lets you enjoy a stress-free surgical experience.
Facelift Pricing
The cost of a facelift at my plastic surgery practice in Boston ranges from $12,000 to $22,000. This price varies based on the complexity of your procedure and the degree of correction needed.
Financing
While a facelift is not covered by insurance, you do have options for managing your costs. Companies such as CareCredit®, ALHPAEON Credit®, and Prosper Healthcare Lending™ offer affordable financing options and work like credit cards specifically for healthcare costs.
3. Customize Your Transformation
A facelift is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, and it should be tailored to you.
Add Procedures if Needed
Depending on your goals, you may want to include a neck lift, brow lift, or eyelid surgery to complete your look. A combined surgery lets you enjoy the benefits of each procedure while recovering from them all at the same time.
Ask Questions at Your Consultation
Your consultation is your opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your surgeon. During consultations, I work with you to customize your procedure together and talk over any aspects you may be curious about.
4. Prep Physically and Emotionally
A little preparation before your surgery makes all the difference when it comes to recovery.
Prep Your Body
In the weeks leading up to your facelift, avoid alcohol and smoking, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Whether you hit the gym or get your steps in by taking a stroll around Copley Square or Beacon Hill, staying active sets your body up for a low-risk surgery and quicker recovery.
Prep Your Mind
It is normal to feel some nerves before surgery. Keep your stress levels low and put your mind at ease by leaning on your support systems, keeping a journal, meditating, and engaging in healthy habits you enjoy.
5. Make the Most of Your Time in Boston
If you’re traveling in for plastic surgery, use your visit to enjoy all the city has to offer.
Plan Your Trip
There is much to explore here in our beautiful region. Get recommendations for hotels, transportation, activities, and more on our out-of-town patients page.
To see more examples of the results you can expect after a facelift, please visit my before-and-after photo gallery.
Schedule Your Boston Facelift Consultation
If you would like to learn more about preparing for a facelift or explore our other plastic surgery procedures in Boston, please request a consultation online or call (781) 237-7700 to get in touch. Our team looks forward to guiding you through your cosmetic journey.
This blog post was originally published in August 2021 and updated in May 2025.
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