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Facelift by Dr. Holcomb & Dr. Salzman

Dr. Holcomb and Dr. Salzman will use the facelift technique that is most appropriate for each patient. Common concerns include skin laxity of the face and neck, heavy skin folds near the mouth, jowls, fullness under the chin, prominent neck bands, and volume loss in the midface area. A well-executed facelift procedure will address each of these concerns if present. Dr. Holcomb and Dr. Salzman are both Castle Connolly Top Doctors, which is a recognition that only goes to the top 7% of all US Board Certified Physicians.

Before & After Facelift

* Individual results may vary.

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What is a Facelift?

The facelift procedure begins with contouring of the neck, jawline, and area under the chin. Some patients may require only minimally-invasive neck contouring, requiring only a needle puncture for traditional (cold) laser-assisted or radiofrequency-assisted liposuction, while others need to have contouring of the platysma muscle (platysmaplasty) to reduce the appearance prominent bands at the front of the neck. Many patients need both liposuction and platysmaplasty to achieve the best results. Dr. Holcomb has extensive experience in radiofrequency assisted facelift and neck lift with both laser lipolysis (co-developer of AccuLift procedure) and radiofrequency assisted lipolysis (RFAL).

Both procedures can be used as standalone neck contouring procedures, but are frequently used in conjunction with facelift surgery. Next, a vertical facelift of the mobile SMAS is performed. This is the most contemporary and effective approach that can effectively lift and sharpen the jawline while also softening the marionette and smile folds. It also mobilzes volume upwards into the mid-face while reducing volume in the lower face to bring back the heart-shaped contour reminiscent of youth. At Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery and Medspa, facelift procedures are typically performed in our AAAASF-accredited outpatient surgical facility under IV sedation. General anesthesia is not required.

Benefits of a Facelift

A facelift can provide all of the following benefits:

  • More youthful-looking face
  • More defined chin and jawline
  • Smoother facial skin
  • Increased self-esteem
  • Reduction of sagging skin
female patient sitting down and smiling

The Deep Plane Facelift

Unlike traditional facelifts that target superficial layers, the deep plane facelift delves into the deeper structural components of the face. This advanced procedure achieves a refined and more youthful appearance by addressing sagging muscles and connective tissues. With their extensive experience in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Holcomb and Dr. Salzman excel in providing significant results, particularly in areas such as the cheeks, nasal region, and neck. Working beneath the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) layer, their approach offers patients a refreshed look with potentially minimized visible signs of surgery.

The deep plane facelift's focus on the deeper facial structures sets it apart from traditional methods. While a facelift mainly addresses the skin and superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) layer, the deep plane technique repositions the skin and muscles, resulting in a more natural appearance and longer-lasting results. This technique especially benefits individuals seeking a rejuvenated mid-face area, including improvements around the cheeks and nasolabial folds.

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The Vertical Facelift

If you have jowls that are easily visible and partially obscuring your jawline when you look in the mirror while standing or sitting, try looking with a hand mirror while lying on the bed or sofa. What happens? In many people, this results in the jowls moving upwards into the lower face and backward toward the ears so that the jawline is magically restored to a youthful state. Guess what position patients are in during facelift surgery? If you guessed flat (supine), you are correct.

So, in this position, the jowls are simply not visible in many cases. They have temporarily migrated up into the face, where surgeons do not perform traditional liposuction. So what happens to the jowls? If you have a facelift procedure that doesn’t directly address the jowls, the jawline will generally look better right after surgery, but over time, and often sooner than later, the jowls will become apparent again — even if the skin is relatively tight across the jawline.

A vertical facelift is done by marking and then placing an incision along the hairline and around the ears to access the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system). The ligaments are then released, and the tissues are lifted vertically as one unit. Once everything is placed, the incisions are then closed. By lifting the deep tissue vertically, your surgeon can address the sagging cheeks, lower face, and neck all at once, resulting in a much more natural and youthful look.

SMAS Facelift

The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is a fibrous network that supports facial structure. With age, it begins to sag—leading to jowling, deep creases, and loss of definition. The SMAS facelift technique:

  • Lifts and tightens this foundational layer
  • Smooths and sculpts the jawline and lower face
  • Offers more durable, natural results than skin-only facelifts

This technique is especially well-suited to patients with moderate to significant aging who want to avoid a drastic or overly pulled appearance.

Energy Assisted Facelift

The radiofrequency assisted facelift (also known as AccuLift™) blends minimally invasive laser lipolysis (use of a special fiber laser that targets collagen, fat, and water to emulsify and melt fat as well as sever and tighten loose collagen bands under the skin) with traditional surgical facelift techniques. Dr. Holcomb co-developed this procedure.

It is also known as laser assisted facial contouring (LAFC) when used to sculpt the lower face, or as laser assisted neck contouring (LANC) when used to sculpt the area under the chin and the neck. Dr. Holcomb unveiled this procedure (which was also described as “the 30-minute facelift”) on the CBS award-winning show The Doctors in 2011.

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Meet The Doctors

J. David Holcomb, MD Face, Nose & Laser Surgery

J. David Holcomb, MD is a double board-certified Facial Plastic and Cosmetic Laser Surgeon (American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Board of Otolaryngology) who has practiced in Sarasota since 2000. His expertise includes advanced procedures such as rhinoplasty and laser resurfacing, and he has participated in groundbreaking clinical research trials (principal investigator in several helium plasma dermal resurfacing studies and BLESS II Letybo neurotoxin non-inferiority study).

Dr. J David Holcomb

Marc J. Salzman, MD Face, Breast & Body Surgery

Marc J. Salzman, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in face and body procedures. A recognized educator and innovator, he's known for advancing techniques and contributing to FDA studies on breast implants.

Dr. Marc Salzman
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Patient Testimonials

If I could give a 10 star rating i sure would. I had both Dr Kreithan and Dr Holcolm did procedures on me in march. Dr Kreithen LISTENED TO my husband and me and HEARD us. This ...

Dr Holcomb is an excellent surgeon I had a facelift and laser skin resurfacing. I feel 10 years younger and am very pleased with the result

Dr Holcomb is AWESOME! I was very afraid to have anything done to my face, but, Dr Holcomb not only reassured me, his results are amazing!! I couldn't be more pleased and I woul...

I had a lower face/neck lift with a full face CO2 laser and I couldn’t be happier with the results!  I look like myself only more refreshed and younger!   The of...

I recently underwent a facelift at Holcomb & Kreithen Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, and I couldn't be happier with the results and overall experience. The professionalism and ...

Facelift Patient Testimonials

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Wendy's Journey

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Saundra's Journey

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Jessica's Journey

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Britta's Testimonial

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Neck Lift and Facelift Testimonial: Twin sisters Carol and Kathleen

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*Real Patient

Candidates for a Facelift

If your facial skin has lost a significant amount of its elasticity, you could be a good candidate for a facelift. Ideal candidates for the procedure should meet the following requirements:

  • Be a non-smoker
  • Have realistic expectations
  • Be in generally good health
  • Have the desire to achieve a more youthful-looking face

Addressing Multiple Concerns

Patients undergoing facelift surgery often have other procedures done at the same time. These procedures can include:

    • Brow lift
    • Upper and/or lower eyelid lift
    • Facial implants
    • Lip enhancement
    • Laser skin resurfacing
    • Fat grafting
    • Dermal fillers
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    Facelift Surgery at Holcomb Kreithen Plastic Surgery

    Britta facial rejuvenation video testimonial

    Consultation with Dr. Holcomb or Dr. Salzman

    During your consultation at Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery for a facelift, our board-certified plastic surgeons, specializing in facial rejuvenation, will conduct an expert evaluation. During a detailed assessment, Dr. Holcomb or Dr. Salzman will assess your facial anatomy, skin quality, and muscle tone. This evaluation is complemented by an in-depth discussion where your surgeon will listen attentively to your aesthetic goals, understand your motivations for seeking a facelift, and address any questions or concerns. You’ll also receive comprehensive education and guidance about the facelift procedure, including:

    • What to expect during surgery
    • Recovery timelines
    • Potential risks
    • Post-operative care instructions

    This information empowers you to make confident decisions about your treatment journey. If you're considering alternative treatments or additional procedures, such as a neck or brow lift or non-surgical enhancements, these options will be discussed to create a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation.

    How Much Does a Facelift Cost?

    Each plan is customized to individual situations and includes facility fees, IV sedation, medication, and post-operative appointments. 

    Having cosmetic surgery is an investment in yourself – both how you look and how you feel. If you’d like to make a change in your appearance, but you’re worried about the cost, Holcomb – Kreithen Plastic Surgery offers convenient financing to fit your budget, so you can have your procedure on your schedule.

    Schedule an appointment with the doctor to discuss the details of your surgery, and he will provide a customized plan and quote for you. 

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    FaceliftFrequently Asked Questions

    What is the recovery period from a facelift?

    Recovery from your facelift in Sarasota will take approximately two weeks. Some bruising is likely and mild swelling is expected during the first week. These gradually diminish over several weeks. Dr. Holcomb, Dr. Marc Salzman and their staff have implemented various measures to help patients navigate the recovery process as quickly as possible. Temporary numbness of the skin in the treatment areas is expected. Many patients feel comfortable enough with their appearance to return to work as soon as 10 to 14 days after surgery.

    How does a facelift impact facial expressions and muscle movement?

    A well-executed facelift preserves natural facial expressions while rejuvenating the face. Dr. Holcomb and Dr. Salzman use advanced techniques to lift and reposition tissues without over-tightening, ensuring smooth, natural movement and avoiding an overly pulled appearance.

    Are there non-surgical alternatives to a facelift?

    Non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers and skin tightening procedures can offer temporary improvements but do not provide the same long-lasting results as a surgical facelift.

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