Facelift Houston, TX
A rhytidectomy or primary facelift Houston is an excellent solution to address visible signs of aging. Dr. Chaowen Wu, MD, PhD, uses advanced surgical techniques to create a natural-looking facial rejuvenation that lasts up to 10 years. A traditional facelift surgery performed by a leading specialist like Dr. Wu turns back the clock and allows you to regain confidence in your appearance.
Dr. Chaowen Wu is one of the country’s best facelift surgeons. She has received extensive training in this procedure and (unlike most other Houston surgeons) specializes exclusively in facial plastic surgery. This has allowed her to narrow her focus and hone her tradecraft to become among the best-skilled and most sought-after facelift doctors in Houston, TX, and across the country.
Facelift Before & After Photos
Deep Plane Facelift, Deep Neck Lift
Age: 45-50
Deep Plane Facelift, Deep Neck Lift
Age: 50-55
Deep Plane Facelift, Deep Neck Lift
Age: 35-40
What is a Primary Facelift?
Rhytidectomy is an increasingly popular cosmetic surgery, with over 78,000 procedures completed in the US last year (2023) compared to 72,000 in 2022. The procedure is an effective way to combat facial aging and restore a more youthful appearance. A seasoned plastic surgeon like Dr. Wu performs this treatment by tightening facial muscles and removing excess skin and fat to restore a youthful appearance and enhance facial balance. Facelift surgery generally has very high patient satisfaction ratings (94% on Real Patient Ratings). Chaowen Wu, MD, a national expert specializing in both the primary standard facelift and advanced techniques like the deep plane facelift, sees an even higher patient satisfaction rate.
How Does the Face Age?
Our faces undergo a lot of changes as we age. Collagen and elastin (proteins that keep the skin firm, healthy, and radiant) reduce and cause skin sagging and wrinkles. Fat pads that once provided youthful plumpness also diminish and create hollows and shadows. Muscles that support facial structures further weaken over time, compounding the sagging problem and negatively affecting jawline definition and overall facial shape. The constant pull of gravity on facial tissues, genetics, and environmental factors such as sun exposure, pollution, and smoking further damage skin cells and accelerate facial aging. All this causes adverse aesthetic issues that are difficult to address with everyday skincare routines and recommendations.
Ideal Candidates for Facelift Surgery in Houston
The primary goal of your facelift surgery in Houston is to reduce visible signs of aging in the face and neck areas to improve overall facial contours. You may be the right candidate for this cosmetic surgery if you:
- Are in good physical and emotional health.
- Are concerned about visible signs of aging such as sagging skin, jowls, deep wrinkles, or a loss of jawline definition.
- Have some skin elasticity left to support optimal results.
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit at least before and after the duration of your facial rejuvenation surgery.
Facelift Goals
Results will vary from person to person, but the primary goals of a facelift in Houston include the following:
- Reduce wrinkles and fine lines
- Tighten sagging skin
- Lift jowls and drooping cheeks
- Improve jawline definition
- Smooth neck bands and wrinkles
- Restore facial volume and contours
- Create a more youthful appearance
- Enhance facial harmony and balance
Why Trust Houston Facelift Surgeon Dr. Chaowen Wu
Dr. Chaowen Wu is one of the leading facelift plastic surgeons in Houston, TX, and on the national stage. While most surgeons offer a diverse range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, Dr. Wu narrowed her focus to facial plastic surgery techniques. This enables her to perfect these procedures and offer a highly specialized service. It's no wonder that many patients from Houston, The Woodlands, Humble, Spring, Tomball, Cypress, Conroe, and other parts of the country seek to benefit from her rare expertise.
Patient Testimonials
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Amazing doctor! Dr. Wu actually was honest enough to suggest an alternative procedure which cost 1/3 the price of procedure i went to the consultation for. I had surgery yesterday... read more
April Sanders
Happy new me 2024! I would like to thank and recommend Dr. Wu and the Revel You. In the fall of 2023, underwent a lower neck and face lift.... read more
Susan Ponce
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Dr Wu exceeded all of my expectations! I was a bit skeptical about having surgery on my neck and face-especially someone who I didn't know. But I was referred to... read more
Marianne Cash
I had a mini facelift. Dr. Wu is very professional while being personable and attentive, spends the time to talk with you about the process. I'm very pleased... read more
Stacy
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Had a face lift and neck lift with Dr. Wu. Approx 3 months ago. My face looks great and I am very happy with the results. Minimal... read more
Andrea Danchak
I am so happy with the final results of my face/brow lift, and facial fat injections in my cheeks. I am especially pleased with how great a job Dr. Wu... read more
Laura Werchan
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Dr. Wu and her staff are excellent. My face and neck lift is perfect. If anyone is considering undergoing any of the procedures she offers, make an appointment!... read more
Renee Harrington
Dr Wu and her team are amazing. 5 weeks ago I had a deep plane facelift, deep neck lift and upper blepharoplasty. My jowls and hooded eyes were my biggest... read more
Dianne Taylor
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I had the best experience at Revel You! Joanna has been so helpful, and supportive through the entire process. I went to consultations at several local facilities before deciding to... read more
Gabrielle Escamilla
Dr. Wu and her team are incredible professionals and wonderful, warm people. I had contacted several plastic surgeons and chose Dr. Wu because of the technique she uses, internet searches... read more
Lena G
Dr. Wu's Facelift Surgical Technique
Dr. Chaowen Wu performs rhytidectomy as a multi-step surgery performed under anesthesia with IV sedation to rejuvenate the lower face and jowls. The surgeon will make strategic, undetectable incisions (depending on the facelift type) to access deeper tissues, which are tightened and repositioned to create a firmer base. She may also sculpt fat deposits and carefully redrape the tightened skin over this renewed foundation, carefully trimming away any excess. Incisions are then closed, and dressings are applied. The specifics of this process will vary based on the chosen facelift techniques. This procedure takes between 2 and 6 hours to complete.
Dr. Wu's Facelift Anesthesia Options
Your safety is a top priority for Dr. Wu. The surgeon performs facial rejuvenation procedures either using general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation administered by a certified anesthesiologist. For qualified facelift patients, local anesthesia with IV sedation is usually preferred because of its unique benefits over general anesthesia:
- Decreased risk of bleeding during surgery
- Reduced risk of nausea and vomiting after surgery
- Avoid systemic side effects of general anesthesia that may make you feel groggy and uncomfortable after surgery
- Overall faster recovery compared to general anesthesia
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after a facelift procedure varies from one person to the other. Dr. Wu’s office will provide individualized guidance and support throughout your recovery.
Week 1
- Immediately Post-Surgery
You will experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and some discomfort at this time. You will have pain medications to help improve comfort.
- Days 1-3
Focus on rest and follow your surgeon’s instructions. Keep your head elevated to minimize swelling. Sutures may be removed as soon as 3 days after surgery.
- Days 4-7
Swelling and bruising may peak around day 3 but should gradually start to subside. Light activity like walking is encouraged.
Week 2
- Days 8-14
You’ll continue to see improvement in swelling and bruising. You will start to feel more like yourself and resume some light activities, but avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
Weeks 3-4
- Days 15-28:
Most of the visible bruising and swelling should have subsided at this time. However, you will still experience some numbness and tightness that gradually improves. Most facelift patients can return to work and social activities at this time, although strenuous exercise should still be avoided for a few more weeks.
Weeks 5-6
- Days 29-42
Incisions should continue to heal well, and you’ll continue to see gradual improvements in your appearance. You may resume most normal activities, including light exercise. Still, listen to your body and avoid anything that causes discomfort.
Months 2-3
- Past 6 weeks
You may resume all regular activities including all forms of exercise. You may also color your hair if you choose. Residual swelling will continue to resolve. Your final results will become more apparent 3-6 months after surgery with final results at 12 months. Your scars will continue to fade and skin sensation will continue to return to normal over the course of the year.
How Much Does a Facelift Cost in Houston?
The cost of a facelift in Houston will vary depending on elected procedures, level of complexity, and surgeon expertise, depending on the specifics and goals of your treatment. You can find our recommended starting budget in our contact form. During your initial facelift consultation in Houston, TX, Dr. Chaowen Wu’s team at Revel You Facial Plastic Surgery will provide an individualized cost estimate to help you plan financially.
Minimally Invasive, In-Office Facelift
Dr. Wu offers the mini-facelift as a minimally invasive in-office procedure. This targeted approach helps address early signs of aging in the lower face and neck (mild skin laxity, jowls, and wrinkles). Compared to the traditional facelift, a mini rhytidectomy is advantageous because it features smaller incisions and a shorter recovery period. Dr. Wu uses this technique to refresh your facial appearance with minimal downtime.
Revision Facelift, Secondary Facelift
Patients who have had a facelift in the past desiring a touchup may wish to work with a highly experienced plastic surgeon to address excess scarring, asymmetry, or other aesthetic concerns. A revision facelift is more complex than a primary facelift because it works with previously altered tissues and potential scar tissues. Dr. Wu creates a customized surgical plan and uses advanced techniques to achieve help your goals.
Why a Deep Plane Facelift May Be Best For You
Dr. Choawen Wu is among the few plastic surgeons who are well-versed in the deep plane facelift technique. This advanced procedure targets not only the skin but also the underlying muscle and connective tissue (SMAS). The comprehensive approach enables the surgeon to achieve more natural-looking and longer-lasting results. Dr. Wu performs hundreds of deep plane facelifts each year, helping both male and female patients achieve a more contoured and youthful appearance without the ‘pulled’ or ‘artificial’ look sometimes associated with other facial rejuvenation techniques.
What Procedures Can I Combine With a Facelift
Many of Dr. Choawen Wu’s patients ask about blending techniques for dramatic facial rejuvenation. It is not uncommon for the surgeon to create a highly individualized treatment plan that combines rhytidectomy with procedures such as neck lift, blepharoplasty, endoscopic style browlift, and facial fat transfer. The surgeon can thoroughly discuss your options for comprehensive facial rejuvenation during your consultation visit at Revel You Facial Plastic Surgery in The Woodlands.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Wu for the Best Facelift in Houston
Dr. Wu’s calm nature and careful precision as a facial plastic surgery specialist have made her a favorite among patients. During your consultation for a facelift in Houston & The Woodlands, the surgeon takes the time to thoroughly assess your unique experiences and needs. The decision to have a facial procedure is one of the most personal decisions you will make, so you need a plan that includes just the right level of correction to meet your facial rejuvenation goals. You can rest assured that Dr. Wu is at the top of the skills chart regarding facelift surgeries and is committed to giving you a long-term, natural-looking result.
Types of Facelifts in Houston
Dr. Wu specializes in a variety of rhytidectomy techniques to suit the needs of different patients.
Deep Plane Facelift
The Deep Plane Facelift is the most advanced and comprehensive rhytidectomy that targets the mid and lower face by repositioning deeper facial tissues, especially the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) and muscles. This technique offers a more natural result by focusing on deeper structures, effectively addressing mid-face sagging like in the cheeks and nasolabial folds. Generally, it is best to combine the Deep Plane Facelift with a Deep Plane Neck Lift.
Deep Neck Lift
The Deep Neck Lift Focuses on tightening loose skin, removing excess fat, and improving the overall appearance of the neck. Some surgeons use liposuction to remove excess fat before tightening underlying facial muscles and tissues for a more defined neck contour, but Dr. Wu generally avoids liposuction as it can provide an uneven, hollowed and unnatural look.
Brow Lift
A brow lift or forehead lift targets aesthetic concerns in the forehead and brow area, like forehead wrinkles, sagging brows, and deep furrows between the eyebrows. The result is a more awake and youthful appearance.
Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)
Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty) improves the appearance of the eyelids, including upper lids, lower lids, or both, by removing excess skin and reducing bagginess for a youthful eye appearance.
- Upper Blepharoplasty – focuses on correcting sagging or hooded upper eyelids.
- Lower Blepharoplasty – addresses the lower eyelid area, targeting under-eye bags and wrinkles
Lip Lift
Reshapes and often elevates the upper lip to enhance facial harmony and rejuvenate the mouth area.
Traditional Facelift
The traditional facelift is an older facelift technique that primarily targets the superficial layers of the face, often leading to a ‘pulled’ appearance. It’s effective for facial sagging but generally will not achieve the same depth of improvement in facial structure or longevity as the Deep Plane Facelift and Deep Neck Lift techniques.
Mini Facelift
The mini facelift is marketed as a less invasive option suitable for mild to moderate signs of aging and involves smaller incisions. The mini facelift is less effective for severe sagging and deeper tissue laxity. Dr Wu’s facelift approach uses precise incisions and very little heat so scarring is minimal and recovery is quicker.
Vertical Facelift
Emphasizes vertical lifting of facial tissues against gravity, particularly beneficial for rejuvenating the mid-face and cheek area. It is synonymous with the Deep Plane Facelift as any vertical lift technique uses a deep plane approach and lifts at the appropriate angle of the face. Thus, any “vertical” technique falls within a Deep Plane Facelift and “vertical” is used for marketing and is not a scientifically recognized name.
Short Scar Facelift
A mini or limited-incision technique with smaller scars, suitable for patients with less severe aging signs.
Mid Facelift
Concentrates on the mid-region of the face, including cheeks and lower eyelids, to restore volume and reduce sagging.
Facial Fat Transfer
Facial fat transfer involves harvesting fat from one part of the body and injecting it into the face to add volume and contour, often used alongside other facelift techniques.
Facelift FAQs
If you don’t find the answer you are looking for, simply contact us!
What are the main reasons for having a facelift?
People have a facelift for different reasons, including to get rid of sagging facial skin, jowls, deep wrinkles, folds, and other imperfections. Compared to minimally invasive techniques, facelift surgery is often the right choice for patients looking for long-lasting results.
How is facelift done?
A facelift is an outpatient procedure that is performed under local or general anesthesia. Incisions are created along the hairline or around the ears to allow the surgeon to reposition underlying facial tissues. Excess skin is then trimmed and the remaining skin is redraped over the reshaped facial contours. Incisions are finally closed with sutures and the treatment areas are covered for optimal healing. The procedure takes between 1 to 4 hours to complete.
What is the best age for facelift surgery?
There’s no perfect age for facelift surgery. Most specialists, however, note that this is generally from 30 to 80 years old. Younger patients may seek facial surgery when they have specific concerns, such as visible jowls or a sagging jawline, and older patients typically have a facelift when multiple facial areas have aged.
How do I know which facelift technique is right for me?
Choawen Wu, MD, will assess factors such as the extent of your facial aging, specific areas of concern, desired recovery time, and expected outcome to determine the best type of facelift for you. The board-certified plastic surgeon provides a supportive environment where you can openly discuss your aesthetic goals as the first step to setting the stage for a professional experience and satisfactory procedure outcome.
Standard facelift vs deep plane facelift procedure
Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Chaowen Wu specializes in standard facelifts along with other advanced techniques. Deep Plane Facelifts and Deep Plane Neck Lifts offer the latest facial surgical techniques for discerning and sophisticated patients, especially for the natural repositioning of the face and sculpting of the jawline. This technique results in an artful repositioning of your face, leading to smoother-looking skin and a more youthful, refined, facial appearance.
Is facelift surgery different for men vs women?
Facelift surgery for men may differ from that for women due to unique anatomical and aesthetic needs. Male rhytidectomy patients often have thicker skin, stronger facial muscles, and receding hairlines. These qualities may affect incision placement and surgical techniques. Men primarily desire to address sagging neck skin and jowls to achieve a more defined jawline and a natural, masculine appearance. Female rhytidectomy procedures primarily wish to address mid-face volume loss and wrinkles to reveal a smooth and youthful appearance. Dr. Wu will customize each procedure to achieve your unique needs, regardless of age or gender.
What is the cost of facelift surgery in Houston?
The average cost of your facelift in Houston, Texas, may range from $11,000 to $32,000 and even more depending on the type of facelift procedure you have (Traditional Facelift vs Deep Plane Facelift) and the skill of your surgeon. Dr. Wu’s team should be able to provide a precise cost estimate following your facelift consultation in Houston.
How long is recovery and the healing process after a facelift?
The facelift recovery and healing process generally takes 4 to 6 weeks starting with swelling immediately after the surgery and ending with most of the swelling having subsided after several weeks when you begin to see the remarkable results of your facelift.
Are facelift scars visible?
A highly skilled and specialized facelift surgeon in Houston, Dr. Wu uses her unique surgical precision so scars are hardly visible once they heal.
Will facelift fix marionette lines?
The facelift can address signs of aging such as sagging skin and jowls, including softening the Marionette lines (creases from the corners of the mouth to the jawline).
How long do facelift results last?
The results of a facelift may last for a number of years, ranging from 5 to 15 years, depending on factors such as type of procedure, surgeon’s skill and technique, individual healing capacity, age and skin elasticity, and lifestyle choices after surgery. Dr. Wu will do everything it takes to give you a facelift that lasts as long as possible and provide expert insights to help you maintain your results.
Which facelift lasts the longest?
The deep plane (SMAS) facelift is recognized for providing longer-lasting results compared to other methods. This is because this technique addresses both the skin and deeper facial tissues to achieve a sustained lifting effect. Keep in mind though that individual factors, including skin care practices and genetics, also play a role in the longevity of your facelift results.
What are the risks and complications of a facelift?
Like any other surgery, a facelift procedure carries potential risks and complications such as hematoma (blood collection under the skin), infection, nerve injury, hair loss, scarring, skin necrosis, asymmetry, anesthesia risks, and unsatisfactory results. Additional risks may include persistent pain, seroma (fluid buildup under the skin), and prolonged swelling. Working with a highly qualified Houston facelift surgeon is the best safeguard patients can take to reduce the likelihood of these complications.
Where are facelift scars?
Dr. Wu positions facelift scars along the natural creases and folds in areas where they are minimally visible. The specific area will vary based on the surgical technique used. Some suitable areas include around the ears, along the hairline, and possibly under the chin.
Can facelift cause nerve damage?
There’s always a risk of complications following a surgical procedure such as rhytidectomy. However, the possibility of nerve damage is low. In some cases, patients will experience temporary numbness that dissipates when the treated area heals. Cases of permanent nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness are quite rare. Working with a surgeon focused only on the face is the best way to minimize risk from complications.
Can I have a facelift without surgery?
Non-surgical alternatives to a facelift exist for patients who have minor aesthetic issues. These may include BOTOX, dermal fillers, thread lift, laser resurfacing, and radiofrequency skin care treatments. The downside of these procedures is they are not long-lasting or can result in an unnatural look.
A highly skilled and specialized facelift surgeon in Houston, Dr. Wu uses her unique surgical precision so scars are hardly visible once they heal.
The facelift can address signs of aging such as sagging skin and jowls, including softening the Marionette lines (creases from the corners of the mouth to the jawline).
People have a facelift for different reasons, including to get rid of sagging facial skin, jowls, deep wrinkles, folds, and other imperfections. Compared to minimally invasive techniques, facelift surgery is often the right choice for patients who are looking for long-lasting results.
The deep plane (SMAS) facelift is recognized for providing longer-lasting results compared to other methods. This is because this technique addresses both the skin and deeper facial tissues to achieve a sustained lifting effect. Keep in mind though that individual factors, including skin care practices and genetics, also play a role in the longevity of your facelift results.
A facelift is an outpatient procedure that is performed under local or general anesthesia. Incisions are created along the hairline or around the ears to allow the surgeon to reposition underlying facial tissues. Excess skin is then trimmed and the remaining skin is redraped over the reshaped facial contours. Incisions are finally closed with sutures and the treatment areas are covered for optimal healing. The procedure takes between 1 to 4 hours to complete.
Dr. Wu positions facelift scars along the natural creases and folds in areas where they are minimally visible. The specific area will vary based on the surgical technique used. Some suitable areas include around the ears, along the hairline, and possibly under the chin.
There’s always a risk of complications following a surgical procedure such as rhytidectomy. However, the possibility of nerve damage is low. In some cases, patients will experience temporary numbness that dissipates when the treated area heals. Cases of permanent nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness are quite rare. Working with a surgeon focused only on the face is the best way to minimize risk from complications.
Non-surgical alternatives to a facelift exist for patients who have minor aesthetic issues. These may include BOTOX, dermal fillers, thread lift, laser resurfacing, and radiofrequency skin care treatments. The downside of these procedures is they are not long-lasting or can result in an unnatural look.
The facelift recovery and healing process generally takes 4 to 6 weeks starting with swelling immediately after the surgery and ending with most of the swelling having subsided after several weeks when you begin to see the remarkable results of your facelift.
A board certified plastic surgeon with multiple board certifications is for plastic surgeons under an older surgical training model which means the plastic surgeon had 5 years of general surgery training (or training in another non plastic surgery speciality) plus 2/3 years of plastic surgery training, or for Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctors a single year of plastic surgery training. The current state-of-the-art training for cosmetic plastic surgery is 6-7 years of an integrated plastic surgery training model in plastic surgery and a 1 year aesthetic fellowship from The Aesthetic Society’s Endorsed Aesthetic Fellowship.