How young is too young for a facelift?

A facelift used to be associated with a milestone like retirement or celebrating your 60th birthday. In recent years, the starting age for facelift consultations began to skew younger, with many women looking to get a facelift starting in their late 40s.

Today, an increasing number of 30-somethings are contemplating facelifts. But is this too young? We spoke with three ASPS Member Surgeons to understand why a 30-year-old might want a facelift and the considerations of undergoing one at that age.

The social media effect

Kelly Killeen, MD, highlighted a growing trend influenced by social media.

"The problem that I see is that with social media being such a huge part of so many young people's lives, we have developed a complete intolerance for any type of looseness in our faces and necks," said Dr. Killeen. "And, you know, people have started believing that even a tiny bit of laxity anywhere on your body is somehow pathologic and wrong."

This intolerance for skin laxity is driving many to seek surgical solutions prematurely. Although your skin starts to lose laxity in your 20s, Dr. Killeen advised caution to people in their 30s who want a facelift.

"I think you really need to kind of pump the brakes if you're someone considering this," said Dr. Killeen.

The natural function of laxity

According to Dr. Killeen, understanding the natural function of laxity in our bodies is crucial.

"Our bodies are supposed to function and move in a certain way, and part of being able to bend in our necks and our torsos is that you have to have some laxity in some places," said Dr. Killeen. "I think instead of chasing this surgically, especially if you're quite young and it's minimal, it's often better just to come to a place of acceptance because chances are if you're chasing something that's minimal, once you heal, things are going to loosen up again, and you may be unhappy in a short period of time, and it's like, 'Why did I do this big surgery?'"

Anatomy over age

There is no "right" age for a facelift. It depends on your unique anatomy and genetics. Historically, the youngest candidates for facelifts have been in their late 40s, while others have not shown signs of enough skin laxity for a facelift until a decade or more later. Lara Devgan, MD, stressed that there is a bell curve for when a person can benefit from a facelift, and it's affected by age, genetics and lifestyle.

"When considering a facelift, the most important factor is your anatomy rather than your age," said Dr. Devgan.

The current societal obsession with the picture-perfect looks found on social media can lead to unnecessary procedures.

"I think we never want to get into a situation where we've created – via filters and Facetune and Photoshop – such a dysmorphic atmosphere and society that perfectly nice-looking people are feeling like they need unnecessary procedures," said Dr. Devgan.

Aesthetic judgment and reason

The role of a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial in these decisions.

"I think here is where aesthetic judgment and the voice of reason of a very trusted board-certified plastic surgeon can come into play," said Dr. Devgan. "I think it's a very delicate balance as plastic surgeons. We don't want to be the arbiters of other people's taste and beauty standards, but at the same time, we don't want to unnecessarily operate on people who simply don't need surgery."

Long-term considerations

Karen Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC, added another dimension to the discussion, emphasizing the long-term implications of surgery at a younger age.

"I would say anyone younger than 50, you have to think twice about is it worth doing a surgery for this patient, creating scars that are permanent, knowing that they will continue to age from that point forward and that they're probably going to be looking at a secondary procedure down the road," said Dr. Horton.

She noted that she often advises young patients to reconsider or delay surgery.

"Yes, I do see younger patients coming in," said Horton. "I usually say, 'No.' I usually educate them and say, 'Here's what your options are at this point. Here's what happens as we continue to age, maybe come back in a couple of years, five years, 10 years, and then we can revisit it.' But I'm hesitant to operate on a younger patient because of scars, and it's irreversible."

The verdict

The allure of a youthful, perfectly contoured face is strong, especially in today's visually driven culture, but the decision to undergo a facelift should not be taken lightly. It leaves permanent scars, and the patient might need another facelift later in life.

While some patients in their 30s might want a facelift, it's usually too soon. However, if their individual anatomy calls for it, some patients in their 40s might be appropriate candidates for the procedure.

If you're considering a facelift at a young age, consulting with a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon who is an ASPS member can provide valuable insight and guidance. They can help you make informed decisions and prioritize your health and well-being over aesthetic trends.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.