The technical term for a facelift is rhytidectomy. A facelift reduces signs of aging in the face and neck. Common reasons inviduals elect to have a facelift include: deep creases (below eyes, from nose to mouth), appearance of jowls, loose skins, fatty deposits, and sagging.

Most often, an incision is made near the temples which continues in front of the ears and ends near the scalp. Sometimes a second incision is needed under the chin. After the incision, fat is redistributed, muscles may be lifted, tissue may be repositioned, and excess skin is removed. Some procedures can be done with only a small incision around the ear.