The aging process affects all of us differently. Over time, it’s normal to notice changes like sagging skin, deeper wrinkles, and a softer jawline. You might see excess skin along your neck or lower face that wasn't there before. A facelift can help address these visible changes by lifting and repositioning the facial tissues, restoring your natural contours, and giving you a more refreshed, youthful appearance.
But not all facelift procedures are the same.
At PURE Cosmetic Center, Dr. Dave Lee offers several advanced options, including the SMAS facelift, deep plane facelift, mini facelift, and neck lift surgery. Each one is tailored to fit your individual anatomy and goals. Whether you’re noticing early signs of aging or ready for a more comprehensive change, the key is finding the surgical procedure that’s right for you, and working with a surgeon who understands how to achieve natural-looking results with care and precision.
Your face is completely unique, so it makes sense that your facial procedure should be, too. The skin, facial muscles, and connective tissue beneath the skin all age at different rates depending on your genetics, lifestyle habits, and environment. Some patients develop loose skin under the chin in their 40s. Others don’t notice a change in laxity until much later.
That’s why there are several different facelift surgery options, each targeting a different part of the face and neck. While a full facelift may lift deeper layers of tissue and address sagging in the lower face, a more focused approach, like a mini facelift or neck lift, might be all that’s needed for patients with more subtle concerns.
At PURE, Dr. Lee customizes every plan to support your natural contours and long-term goals. The goal is not to look different--it’s to look more like you, with fewer distractions from excess fat, drooping skin, or loss of definition.
The SMAS facelift targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, a thin layer of connective tissue and facial muscles beneath the skin that helps control facial expression. By tightening this layer, Dr. Lee is able to lift sagging areas without placing stress on the skin surface.
This technique is ideal for patients who want longer-lasting results without looking “overdone.” It offers a more structured lift than a skin-only approach and works especially well for restoring definition to the midface and jawline.
While every face is different, many patients in their 40s to early 60s see excellent results with a SMAS facelift, especially when combined with other procedures like neck lift surgery or eyelid surgery.
The deep plane facelift is one of the most advanced surgical options available today. This approach gently releases key facial ligaments and lifts the facial tissues and skin as one continuous unit. This allows for more complete repositioning, especially in the mid to lower face.
One of the biggest benefits of the deep plane technique is how natural the results can look. Because the blood supply to the tissues is preserved, healing is typically smooth, and the swelling, bruising, and scarring tend to be less intense than people expect.
Dr. Lee’s training in maxillofacial surgery and aesthetic facial plastic surgery gives him the precision to perform deep plane lifts safely and artistically. This approach is ideal for patients with deeper facial volume descent or those who want dramatic improvements in both the face, jawline, and neck.
A neck lift focuses specifically on the area below the chin and jawline. If you’re bothered by loose skin, double chin, neck banding, or excess fat, this targeted surgical procedure can help redefine the profile and smooth the neck. For many patients, a neck lift is the missing piece of the puzzle, especially when the rest of the face still looks youthful. In a necklift, the muscle of the neck called the platysma muscle is tightened and lifted into a more youthful position.
A mini facelift, on the other hand, offers a lighter lift for the lower face. With shorter incisions in front of the ears and a quicker recovery process, it’s a good option for younger patients with mild sagging skin or early jowling. Many patients return to their normal activities within several weeks, with less downtime than a full lift.
Dr. Lee often combines multiple facial procedures based on what will achieve the most balanced outcome. For example, a mini facelift might be paired with a brow lift, fat transfer, or even eyelid surgery to refresh the upper face and restore volume.
No two faces are the same, and no single technique works for everyone. That’s why it’s important to choose a plastic surgeon who is trained in more than just the basics.
Some surgeons stick with a one-size-fits-all method. But that can lead to results that feel generic or unbalanced. The truth is, the best facelift results come from a surgeon who understands how to work with the deeper layers of the face, preserve the blood supply, and avoid complications like nerve damage or unnecessary scarring.
Dr. Dave Lee’s background includes advanced training in deep plane facelift techniques, SMAS facelifts, maxillofacial surgery, and facial plastic surgery, allowing him to safely lift and sculpt with precision. He also understands when to combine additional procedures and when to leave areas untouched. Whether it’s adjusting incision sites to follow natural contours or starting a postop lymphatic massage regimen to minimize swelling, his attention to detail at every step leads to more natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Recovery looks a little different depending on the type of facelift surgery you choose. Here's a quick look at what to expect after each approach.
With the SMAS Facelift, there may be some bruising and swelling in the first few weeks after surgery. You may return to light activities after 10 to 14 days, with continued refinement over the following weeks. A gentle skincare routine and keeping your head elevated will support healing. Manual lymphatic drainage massage is very important to minimize swelling and help with healing in the postoperative period.
Although it’s more advanced, the swelling and bruising with the deep plane facelift is often similar to that of the SMAS facelift. Most patients feel great within about a week, with natural results emerging steadily over several weeks. Dr. Lee monitors you closely to minimize potential risks. Manual lymphatic drainage massage is started at 1 week after surgery and is very important to prevent tissue fibrosis and to lessen post-operative swelling.
With smaller incisions and less tissue adjustment, the mini facelift has the shortest recovery. Patients tend to return to normal routines in a week or so. Mild swelling and tightness, especially along the lower face and jawline is normal and expected.
Recovery after a neck lift is usually straightforward. Mild swelling, tightness, and some bruising under the chin are common. Patients typically resume normal activity after one to two weeks, especially if it’s done without additional procedures. Most necklift surgeries are combined with facelifts for the most optimal results.
Choosing the right facelift procedure isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about finding the approach that brings out the best in your features, with results that feel natural and personal. Whether you’re considering a mini facelift, neck lift, or full deep plane facelift, Dr. Lee offers expert guidance at every stage of the process.
At PURE Cosmetic Center in Boston and Chelmsford, you’ll find a warm, respectful environment where your goals are heard, and your outcome is never rushed. Every face is different. And every result should be, too.
Book your consultation today to explore your options and learn more about how PURE can help reduce the signs of aging while enhancing your natural beauty.
Your beauty is a symphony. Don’t trust it to anyone less than a true performer and a master at his craft. Chelmsford and Boston plastic surgeon, Dr. Dave Lee brings the virtuosity of a concert pianist and the artistry of a renowned plastic surgeon to each procedure. Schedule a consultation today to discover why patients across New England are singing the praises of Dr. Lee and his staff at PURE Cosmetic Center.
Boston Office
400 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor
Boston, MA 02215
Chelmsford Office
15 Village Square
Chelmsford, MA 01824
