One Facelift Isn’t Enough: Why the Longevity Movement Demands More Than a Single Procedure
By Dr. Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS
As a board‑certified plastic surgeon in an age where longevity ideals are reshaping expectations, I’ll cut to the chase: for many, one facelift—once considered a once‑in‑a‑lifetime fix—is no longer sufficient. The longevity movement means people live longer, remain socially active, and want to look as vibrant at 75 as they did at 55.
Longevity Isn’t Failure—It’s Evolution
The Vogue article rightly notes a 50% spike in interest in facelifts. And with more people getting their first procedure in their 40s, it’s inevitable that a second lift becomes part of the long‑term plan. I always explain: if you get your first facelift at 45 and it lasts 10–15 years—as it should—you’ll be around 60 when things begin to shift again. A tune‑up isn’t proof the original failed; it just means you’re living.
What Makes a Secondary Facelift Different?
Building on what Vogue quoted me saying: revision surgery demands finesse. The surgical planes have been altered, the soft tissues repositioned, and scars, though discreet, exist. So rather than lifting like it’s virgin territory, surgeons must read the changes: treat new laxity, volume loss, and shifts in balance while maintaining identity. Advanced techniques allow subtle, natural rejuvenation without over‑pulling or erasing who you are.
The Modern Facelift Philosophy
My approach, and what I’ve written elsewhere, emphasizes millimeter‑level adjustments. It’s not about dramatic pull—it’s about layered harmony across brow, lid, cheek, jawline, and neck. A millimeter forward, a fraction of a degree lift—this is how you stay true to your anatomy while aging gracefully.
Celebrities Make It Look Easy—but It’s Not Just Surgery
Let’s not kid ourselves: stars like Kris Jenner get facelifts, yes, but they also have teams—hair, makeup, injectables, editing. That viral Schulders‑and‑filters fantasy isn’t reality. Facelifts are only one tool in a much broader aesthetic toolkit.
Why Your First Upgrade Could Be Years Away—But It Will Come
Longevity ≠ Changing course, it means altered needs.
Facelifts age like other surgeries: hips, knees, implants—they’re revisited.
Your goals evolve, your anatomy subtly shifts. A revisit may actually reflect maturity, not failure.
With advanced techniques, sequential lifts avoid over‑tension, focus on subtlety, and preserve identity.
A Direct Message to Patients
Don’t fear a second—or even third—lift. It’s a reflection of living long, intentionally, and on your own terms. It’s saying: “I’m still me, and I want to look like me.” If you embark on your first lift in your 40s or early 50s, make sure you’re working with a surgeon who plans beyond the initial result.
Appointment Inquiries
For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!
