Rhytidectomy, more commonly known as a facelift, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for restoring a youthful appearance. Despite its popularity, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many people still base their opinions on outdated information, celebrity gossip, or myths passed around by people who have never undergone the procedure.

If you’ve been considering rhytidectomy surgery but feel hesitant because of things you’ve heard, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Let’s break down some of the most common myths about facelifts and set the record straight.

Myth 1: Facelifts Make You Look “Pulled” or Unnatural

The Truth:
One of the biggest misconceptions about rhytidectomy surgery is that it always results in a tight, “windblown” look. This was a concern decades ago when facelift techniques primarily focused on stretching the skin without addressing the underlying structures.

Today’s procedures are far more advanced. Skilled plastic surgeons now focus on lifting and tightening the deeper facial tissues (SMAS layer) rather than just pulling the skin. This results in a smoother, more natural look that simply makes you appear refreshed and youthful—not artificial.

Myth 2: Rhytidectomy Surgery Is Only for Women

The Truth:
While women still make up a large portion of facelift patients, more men than ever are undergoing rhytidectomy surgery. Aging affects everyone, and many men want to maintain a youthful appearance for personal and professional reasons.

Modern facelifts are customized to the individual’s facial structure and aesthetic goals, so men can achieve subtle, masculine improvements without feminizing their features.

Myth 3: Facelifts Are Only for People Over 60

The Truth:
It’s a common belief that rhytidectomy is only for those well into their senior years, but this is simply not true. Many patients in their 40s and 50s choose to have a facelift to address early signs of sagging before they become more pronounced.

In fact, undergoing the procedure earlier can help maintain facial structure and delay more significant aging changes, often resulting in more natural-looking, longer-lasting results.

Myth 4: Recovery Takes Months

The Truth:
While recovery after rhytidectomy surgery varies by individual, the initial healing phase usually takes two to three weeks, not several months.

Most swelling and bruising fade within the first few weeks, and many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities after about 14–21 days. Surgeons now use advanced techniques that minimize trauma and promote quicker healing, making recovery much easier than it used to be.

Myth 5: You’ll Have Obvious Scars

The Truth:
A skilled plastic surgeon places facelift incisions along natural skin creases and around the hairline, making them virtually invisible once healed. With proper aftercare, scars are minimal and fade over time.

Today’s surgical approaches and improved suturing methods mean that most people will never notice you’ve had surgery—only that you look refreshed.

Myth 6: Non-Surgical Treatments Work Just as Well

The Truth:
While non-surgical treatments like fillers, Botox, and skin tightening devices can provide noticeable improvements, they cannot replace the results of rhytidectomy surgery.

A facelift physically repositions sagging tissues and removes excess skin—something injectables and energy-based treatments cannot do. For long-term, dramatic rejuvenation, surgery remains the gold standard. Many patients, however, choose to combine a facelift with non-surgical options for enhanced results.

Myth 7: Facelift Results Don’t Last Long

The Truth:
The results of a rhytidectomy can last 10 years or more, depending on your skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle habits. While surgery cannot stop the aging process, it can set the clock back significantly.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using sunscreen daily, and following your surgeon’s post-care instructions can extend the longevity of your results.

Myth 8: You’ll Lose Your Unique Facial Features

The Truth:
A well-performed rhytidectomy doesn’t change who you are—it enhances your natural beauty. The goal is to make you look like a younger, more refreshed version of yourself.

When you choose a surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation, the procedure is tailored to preserve your natural expressions and character, not erase them.

The Bottom Line

Rhytidectomy surgery Burlington has come a long way from the days of overly tight results and long recoveries. With today’s techniques, you can expect natural-looking improvements, faster healing, and results that last for years.

If you’ve been hesitating because of myths or misinformation, now is the time to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide honest answers based on your unique needs.