By: William Jones

With filters, Facetune, and camera flashes everywhere, there’s more pressure than ever to look great —yet not appear as if you’ve had “work” done, and facelifts have evolved. We no longer want that windswept look. Now, we have refined surgical methods that raise and refresh a face in a way that may not reveal age as clearly.

To understand the changing trends in facelifts and the popular requests from patients this year, we interviewed renowned plastic surgeons in Miami who are helping shape the future of facial aesthetics: Dr. Morad Askari, founder of Revive Surgical Institute, a board-certified plastic surgeon, and Dr. David Gerth, a double board-certified plastic surgeon focusing on facial procedures.

Q: Let’s start with the basics. What’s changed in facelift surgery over the last few years?

Dr. Askari: The most noticeable difference is that more people are opting for rejuvenation treatments that target deeper layers beneath the skin, rather than just tightening the surface. They don’t want to appear as if they’ve had surgery; they just want to appear more rested. This shift in preferences has made procedures like deep plane facelifts quite popular.

Dr. Gerth: Agreed. In the past, facelifts were primarily focused on lifting the skin — sometimes the tissue below it as well. Nowadays, we focus on a deeper layer than the SMAS, releasing essential ligaments, which allows us to raise all facial tissues in a more vertical and natural way. The outcome? Longer-lasting, smoother results with no obvious signs of having had “work” done.

Q: So, what exactly is the difference between a SMAS facelift and a deep plane facelift?

Dr. Gerth: Think of the SMAS facelift as tightening the tissue directly beneath your skin. It offers a modest improvement, but it has its limits. In contrast, a deep plane facelift works beneath this subdermal tissue. This allows the surgeon to lift the cheeks, jowls, and midface all at once. Instead of just pulling things taut, the deep plane technique is more about restoring volume and sculpting the droopy areas.

Dr. Askari: Also, there are fewer “pressure points” on the skin. This makes for a smoother recovery process, and the incisions tend to be more hidden. In fact, skilled cosmetic surgeons can create a transformation while still respecting the natural contours of a patient’s face.

Q: What are your patients asking for right now?

Dr. Askari: In Miami, the requests vary. Some patients desire a contoured appearance with more definition, while others seek a softer, more natural look. Regardless of the specifics, all patients have one goal: to look youthful without appearing altered. People want to look like better versions of themselves, not like someone entirely different.

Dr. Gerth: I refer to it as the “unfiltered filter” effect. What patients want is smoother skin, higher cheekbones, and a more defined jawline, without the obvious signs of surgery. Additionally, more patients are choosing minor facelifts in their forties and early fifties, aiming to prevent signs of aging rather than waiting until more correction is needed later on, which often requires a longer recovery time.

Q: Are there any complementary treatments that go hand-in-hand with modern facelifts?

Dr. Gerth: Absolutely. While a facelift addresses structural concerns, skin quality is just as important. To improve texture, restore lost volume, and address pigmentation issues, we often incorporate treatments like laser therapy, microneedling with radiofrequency, or fat transfer. This comprehensive approach yields more balanced and complete rejuvenation.

Dr. Askari: Neck lifts, brow lifts, or eyelid surgery can also contribute to excellent results, depending on the patient’s needs. The key is to tailor the treatment to each individual’s goals. We frequently combine both surgical and non-surgical techniques, always with the aim of achieving harmony in the overall result.

Q: How long is the recovery, and how do patients feel after surgery?

Dr. Askari: Most patients are able to return to light activities within 10 to 14 days and are typically photo-ready in about four to six weeks. While full recovery may take longer, the results are generally worth the wait. What often surprises people is the sense of empowerment they feel afterward. It’s as if they’ve finally aligned their outward appearance with how youthful they feel inside.

Dr. Gerth: We place a strong emphasis on making sure patients feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. A facelift isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling great, embracing how you want to age, and taking control of your appearance.

Q: What advice would you give someone considering a facelift today?

Dr. Gerth: Choose a surgeon who truly understands facial anatomy. It’s worth taking the time to select the right professional. After all, it’s your face — you deserve a treatment that is tailored to you and will yield achievable, natural-looking results.

Dr. Askari: I’d advise potential patients to think about the emotions they want to convey, not just their appearance. The premier facelifts are often subtle, resulting in a change so slight that others may wonder, “You look great. Did you go on vacation?”

The Miami Influence: Subtle Glam with Staying Power

There is a unique culture in Miami that values beauty in a way that doesn’t seem artificial. This has led to younger individuals opting for facelifts with a more thoughtful approach, focusing on subtle enhancements rather than drastic changes.

It’s also where premier Miami plastic surgeons like Dr. Askari and Dr. Gerth at Revive Surgical Institute are reshaping how their profession is viewed. By combining their knowledge of art and biology, they produce results that patients say make them feel rejuvenated and young again.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider or plastic surgeon to discuss your individual needs and options. Results may vary depending on each person’s unique circumstances, and the procedures discussed may not be suitable for everyone.