Facelift surgery has come a long way in recent years, moving away from the overly tight, unnatural results of the past towards techniques that prioritise subtlety, longevity, and a truly refreshed appearance. In the latest episode of Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter, I sit down with one of the UK’s leading plastic surgeons, Mr Marc Pacifico, to discuss the evolution of facelifts, the deep plane technique, and why modern facial surgery is achieving such impressive, natural results.

The problem with traditional facelifts

For years, facelifts carried a certain stigma – images of pulled, wind-swept faces and overly stretched skin often come to mind. But as Marc explains, these outdated results were often the consequence of older techniques that relied on skin tightening alone, rather than addressing the deeper structural changes of the face.

Marc and I discuss how facelifts have evolved, with modern techniques focusing on lifting the underlying support structures of the face, not just the skin itself. This fundamental shift means that today’s facelifts not only look more natural but also last longer, as they restore facial volume and reposition tissues where they naturally belong.

What is the deep plane facelift and why is it different?

The deep plane facelift is one of the most advanced approaches to facial surgery, and Marc explains why it has become the gold standard for achieving a natural, long-lasting lift. Unlike older facelift techniques that rely on pulling the skin, the deep plane method releases and repositions the deeper layers of the face, allowing for a more youthful, harmonious result without visible tension.

Marc breaks down exactly how this technique works, why it is technically more demanding, and what makes it a superior approach for those looking to achieve a refreshed yet undetectable result. We also discuss how social media has contributed to the rise in awareness of this technique, with more patients coming in requesting specific procedures by name – sometimes without fully understanding whether they are the right candidate.

Who is the right candidate for a facelift?

A fascinating part of our conversation is who is now having facelifts. Traditionally, facelift patients were in their late 50s to 70s, but Marc has seen a shift towards younger patients, particularly those in their late 40s and early 50s. We explore why peri-menopausal changes in the skin and facial structure often lead people to consider surgery earlier, and how this can actually produce more subtle, preventative results.

Interestingly, Marc also highlights the psychological impact of facelifts, sharing a story about a patient who felt invisible before surgery but experienced a complete shift in confidence and self-esteem post-procedure. It’s not just about looking younger – it’s about feeling like yourself again.

Why the neck is just as important as the face

One of the biggest takeaways from our discussion is the importance of treating the face and neck together. Many patients today focus on lifting their faces while neglecting their jawline and neck, which can create an unnatural contrast. Marc explains how modern facelift techniques seamlessly integrate a neck lift, ensuring balanced, natural-looking rejuvenation.

The consultation process: managing expectations and selecting the right treatment

With more information available than ever before, Marc and I discuss how social media and the internet have changed the consultation process. Patients now arrive with very specific requests, sometimes with a “shopping list” of procedures they think they need. But as Marc explains, a good consultation is about taking a step back, identifying the real concerns, and designing a treatment plan that works for the individual, rather than following trends.

We also touch on the importance of saying no – both Marc and I regularly turn patients away if their expectations are unrealistic or if we feel their motivations aren’t in the right place. Surgery isn’t just about physical change; there are emotional and psychological factors to consider too.

What does recovery really look like?

Facelift recovery is something that many people worry about, and Marc gives an honest, detailed insight into what to expect. While the results are absolutely worth it for most, he doesn’t shy away from discussing the initial tightness, swelling, and discomfort that patients experience in the first few weeks. We talk about the typical recovery timeline, when patients can expect to return to normal life, and how long it takes to see the final, refined results.

The reality of facelift costs and quality

One of the most interesting parts of our discussion is the cost of facelifts and why prices vary so dramatically. Marc shares his views on the infamous £250,000 facelift and explains what factors influence pricing, from surgeon experience to hospital fees and the complexity of the procedure.

As he points out, high-quality surgery is an investment, and while facelifts in the UK typically range between £25,000 and £35,000, pricing should always reflect the skill and experience of the surgeon rather than just social media hype.

Is a facelift right for you?

Whether you’re considering a facelift now or in the future, this episode is full of valuable insights into modern facial surgery, the deep plane facelift, and how to achieve the most natural-looking results. Marc’s depth of experience, honesty, and expert approach make this a must-listen for anyone interested in facial rejuvenation and ageing well.

If you’ve ever wondered what really goes into a successful facelift, how the deep plane technique works, or whether surgery is the right choice for you, this episode is packed with expert advice that will help you make an informed decision.

Listen now

Tune in to the full conversation on “Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter” to hear the full discussion with Marc Pacifico. Whether you’re thinking about a facelift or just want to stay informed about the latest advances in facial aesthetics, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Click here to listen on Spotify or here to tune in on Apple Podcasts.