Your thoughts may turn to surgical solutions once you notice sagging skin, deeply etched lines, or a loss of youthful definition. While you may already recognize a facelift as the gold standard of anti-aging procedures, you might not know about the different techniques available to restore your younger, refreshed appearance.
At our Beverly Hills practice, board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Martin Stepanyan guides his patients with personalized care and over 25 years of surgical expertise. During your consultation, he’ll define the differences between a ponytail facelift and traditional facelift so you can decide which approach will work better for you.
What Is a Ponytail Facelift?
The ponytail facelift is a newer, less invasive technique designed to replicate the subtle effect you can achieve by pulling your hair back into a tight ponytail. It targets early signs of aging with minimal disruption, making it ideal for patients seeking a refreshed appearance with refined, natural-looking results.
You may choose this procedure if you’re not ready for a full facelift but want to elevate and reposition tissues around your eyes, temples, and cheeks.
Once you are under anesthesia, Dr. Stepanyan will make small incisions, typically hidden behind your hairline at your temples. Then, he’ll reposition underlying tissue and tighten select areas of your skin. Your result will be a refreshed look without dramatic alterations.
What Is a Traditional Facelift?
A conventional facelift, also called a rhytidectomy, is a time-tested surgical method for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. It addresses more advanced signs of aging in the neck and lower face.
Dr. Stepanyan will make incisions around your hairline and the natural creases near your ears and use these to access and tighten an underlying plane of muscle and tissue called the SMAS. Then, he’ll remove excess skin to create a smoother, firmer appearance.
Traditional facelifts are ideal for patients with more significant sagging, deeper wrinkles, and jowls. They produce longer-lasting results compared to less invasive options.
Which Approach Makes More Sense for You?
When considering facial rejuvenation, understanding the differences between a ponytail facelift and a traditional facelift can help you choose the approach that best suits your goals.
Targeted Areas
The ponytail facelift focuses on the upper and midface, especially around the eyes, temples, and cheeks – areas where early signs of aging often appear. In contrast, the traditional facelift targets the lower face and neck, addressing concerns like jowls, deep creases, and sagging skin.
Degree of Correction
A ponytail facelift is ideal for patients with mild to moderate signs of aging. It offers a refined, natural-looking enhancement without dramatic changes. The traditional facelift provides more comprehensive correction, making it better for advanced skin laxity and deeper wrinkles.
Incisions and Scarring
Ponytail facelifts involve smaller incisions, typically hidden within the hairline, resulting in minimal and well-concealed scarring. Traditional facelifts require longer incisions around the ears and hairline. While Dr. Stepanyan places them discreetly, they are more extensive.
Anesthesia and Recovery
Traditional facelifts usually require general anesthesia, with a recovery period of three to four weeks and more noticeable swelling and bruising.
Though everyone heals at a different rate, the ponytail facelift often allows for a quicker recovery – most patients return to their typical activities within one to two weeks.
Result Longevity
Results from a ponytail facelift typically last three to five years, depending on skin quality and lifestyle factors. Traditional facelifts offer longer-lasting outcomes, often maintaining their effect for a decade or more with proper care.
Who Qualifies for a Ponytail Facelift?
You could be a good candidate if you:
- Are in your 30s to 50s with early signs of aging.
- Have mild sagging around your cheeks, temples, and jawline.
- Prefer a minimally invasive approach with shorter downtime.
- Want a refreshed look without dramatic changes.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Traditional Facelift?
You may wish to pursue a traditional facelift if you:
- Are in your late 40s to 70s with moderate to severe facial sagging.
- Have significant jowls, deep folds, and loose skin around your neck.
- Want long-lasting, dramatic results.
- Are comfortable with a longer recovery period.
Limitations of Each Approach
Ponytail facelift:
- Does not correct significant skin laxity or advanced wrinkles.
- Results are more subtle and shorter-lived.
- Best for patients with good skin elasticity.
Traditional facelift:
- Requires more extensive surgery and recovery.
- Involves a higher degree of scarring.
- Not always necessary for younger patients or those with mild concerns.
Combination Treatments for Enhanced Results
Many people achieve their ideal outcome by pairing a facelift with complementary procedures like these.
- Neck liposuction to refine the jawline.
- Eyelid surgery for tired-looking eyes.
- Botox to stop wrinkles like crow’s feet and brow furrows in their tracks.
- Fillers to restore lost volume.
- Laser treatments or chemical peels to improve skin texture and tone.
Dr. Stepanyan will customize a treatment plan to address your unique needs and goals.
Which Procedure Is Right for You?
The choice between a ponytail facelift and a traditional facelift depends on your age, anatomy, lifestyle, and expectations. Younger patients may benefit from the subtle lift of a ponytail facelift, while those with more advanced signs of aging may achieve better results with a traditional facelift.
During your consultation, Dr. Stepanyan will carefully assess your facial structure, skin elasticity, and goals. Using three-dimensional imaging technology, he can help you visualize potential results and make an informed decision.
Are Results Permanent?
No facelift can stop the natural aging process. However, both procedures remove years from your appearance and restore youthful contours. While ponytail facelift results typically last several years, traditional facelift results can endure for a decade or longer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, protecting your skin with professional-grade products, and following Dr. Stepanyan’s postsurgical care instructions can help extend your results.
Get Expert Guidance From Dr. Stepanyan in Beverly Hills
Deciding between a ponytail facelift and a traditional facelift doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Confidently choose the procedure that aligns with your vision, aided by Dr. Stepanyan’s decades of experience, advanced surgical skill, and patient-centered approach. Whether you’re looking for a subtle refresh or a dramatic rejuvenation, Dr. Stepanyan will create a tailored plan to help you look as vibrant as you feel. Schedule your consultation today by booking an appointment online or calling us at (818) 551-0088.