How Many Different Types of Facelifts Are There? A Complete Guide to Know

As we age, our skin begins to lose its elasticity, resulting in sagging and the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Facelift procedures are designed to address these natural signs of aging and help restore a more youthful appearance. So, how many different types of facelifts are there? Let’s explore the most popular options and how each one can enhance your natural beauty.

How Many Different Types of Facelifts Are There?

There are nine common types of facelifts, ranging from traditional surgical techniques to modern non-invasive alternatives. Each method targets specific areas of the face and offers unique benefits depending on your age, skin condition, and desired results.

Below, we’ll break down each type to help you understand which one may be the right fit for you:

1. Deep Plane/SMAS Facelift

The Deep Plane or SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) facelift is one of the most advanced and comprehensive facelift techniques. 

It addresses both the deeper facial muscles and the overlying skin, lifting sagging tissues from beneath rather than simply tightening the surface. 

This results in a more natural and longer-lasting rejuvenation, particularly effective for those with moderate to severe facial sagging. Recovery can take several weeks, but the results typically last over a decade.

Read Also: Exploring Ultherapy: A Non-Invasive Skin Tightening Treatment

2. Mini Facelift

A Mini Facelift is a surgical technique that involves making small, discreet incisions, typically placed along the hairline or around the ears. 

Through these incisions, the surgeon carefully tightens underlying facial tissues and removes any excess skin to create a smoother, firmer look. 

This procedure is especially effective for reducing or eliminating jowls, which often appear around the lower cheeks and jawline as collagen production decreases with age.

3. Mid-Facelift

The Mid-Facelift focuses on rejuvenating the middle part of the face, particularly the cheeks and nasolabial folds (lines running from the nose to the mouth).

It lifts the underlying fat pads and muscles to restore youthful volume and contour. This type of facelift is perfect for those who notice sagging in the mid-face but not necessarily along the jawline or neck. Recovery is generally quicker than with a full facelift.

4. Cheek Lift

A Cheek Lift, also known as a malar lift, targets the cheek area to enhance fullness and definition. Over time, the cheeks can lose volume and start to droop, making the face look tired. 

By repositioning the fat pads and tightening the surrounding tissues, this procedure helps lift the cheeks back to their youthful position, improving facial balance and smoothness.

5. Jaw Line Rejuvenation

The Jaw Line Rejuvenation procedure addresses sagging skin and jowls that often develop with age. This technique refines the jawline’s contour, reduces excess skin, and tightens underlying structures for a more sculpted and defined look. 

Many modern surgeons combine jawline rejuvenation with neck contouring to create a smoother, cohesive lower-face appearance.

Read Also: Anti Aging Treatments Abroad: How to Choose and What to Expect

6. Skin-only Facelift

A Skin-only Facelift focuses exclusively on tightening the skin without altering deeper muscles or tissues. It’s a simpler and less invasive option, suitable for patients with minimal sagging. 

However, since the deeper layers aren’t lifted, the results tend to be shorter-lived compared to a SMAS or Deep Plane facelift. This procedure offers a quick aesthetic refresh for special events or when downtime is limited.

7. Cutaneous Lift

Similar to a skin-only facelift, the Cutaneous Lift involves tightening and repositioning only the outermost skin layer. It’s mainly recommended for individuals experiencing mild sagging on the lower face and neck. 

The procedure provides temporary improvement and minimal scarring, but it doesn’t address underlying muscle laxity. Think of it as a light “tune-up” for surface-level aging.

8. Temporal or Brow Lift

A Temporal or Brow Lift targets the upper portion of the face, focusing on lifting sagging brows and smoothing forehead lines. 

This type of facelift helps open up the eyes, reduce droopy eyelids, and create a more alert and youthful appearance. Depending on the technique used, it can be performed surgically or with minimally invasive methods such as endoscopic lifting.

9. Liquid Facelift

The Liquid Facelift is a non-surgical treatment that uses a combination of dermal fillers and Botox to add volume, reduce wrinkles, and lift the skin. It offers instant, natural-looking rejuvenation without incisions or recovery time. 

Although results are temporary, lasting six months to one year, it’s a perfect option for those seeking subtle enhancements without committing to surgery.

Read Also: 10 Clear Signs of Aging Eyes and How to Fix Them Early

Which Type of Facelift Is Best for You?

Choosing the right facelift depends on several personal factors, such as your age, lifestyle, and the degree of sagging you want to correct. 

Here are some general guidelines to help you decide:

• For deep wrinkles and significant sagging: Deep Plane/SMAS Facelift offers the most comprehensive results.
• For early signs of aging: Mini Facelift or Cutaneous Lift provides gentle rejuvenation with faster recovery.
• For cheek volume loss: Mid-Facelift or Cheek Lift helps restore youthful fullness.
• For loose skin around the jawline: Jaw Line Rejuvenation defines and contours the lower face.
• For forehead or brow sagging: Temporal or Brow Lift refreshes the upper face and opens the eyes.
• For quick, non-surgical results: Liquid Facelift offers instant improvement without downtime.

Ultimately, the best option for you can only be determined after a consultation with an experienced aesthetic specialist. They will assess your facial structure, skin condition, and goals to recommend the most suitable facelift technique.

Understanding how many different types of facelifts there are can help you make an informed decision about your next aesthetic step. Whether you’re aiming for dramatic transformation or gentle enhancement, modern facelift options can help you look and feel your best. At Nulook, we believe in timeless beauty achieved through personalized, innovative care.

Lift and Rejuvenate Naturally with Ultherapy Bali

If you’re looking for a non-surgical facelift alternative, discover Ultherapy Bali at Nulook Clinic Bali. This advanced treatment uses focused ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production deep within your skin,  lifting and tightening areas like the neck, chin, and brow without any downtime.

As an FDA-approved Ultherapy treatment Bali option, it’s often called a non-surgical facelift Bali solution for its ability to smooth wrinkles and restore firmness naturally.

Here’s why Ultherapy at Nulook Clinic Bali stands out:

• Non-Invasive and Convenient – No surgery, no recovery time. Resume your daily routine immediately after treatment.
• Natural-Looking, Smoother Results – Gradual skin tightening ensures your features remain natural and expressive.
• Stimulates Collagen in Deeper Layers – Focused ultrasound energy works below the surface to strengthen your skin’s foundation.
• Long-Lasting Confidence – Enjoy firmer, lifted skin for up to a year or longer with regular maintenance.
• Versatile Aesthetic Solution – Treats multiple areas, including the face, neck, and décolletage, for a balanced, youthful glow.

Book an appointment now and experience how Nulook’s Ultherapy Bali can redefine your youthful radiance!

References:

• Toronto Facial Plastic Surgery. Accessed in 2025. The 9 Types of Facelift Procedures
• Dr. Diana Ponsky.  Accessed in 2025. Plastic Surgeon’s Ultimate Guide To The 7 Types of Facelifts