Reviewed by: Dr. John P. Fezza, M.D
When it comes to aging facial features, it’s rarely a single problem that needs to be addressed. Single treatments are likewise seldom going to fix everything, either. Changes in volume, skin laxity, fine lines, sun spots, and brow heaviness each show up differently. Modern facial cosmetic surgery now regularly pairs structural procedures with skin-focused treatments. The combined procedures rejuvenate the face more efficiently than a single treatment, and in a more natural way that still looks like you. Think structure plus surface working together.
This guide explores a few procedures and the common concerns that may come with them. It explains where a facelift and deep plane facelift fit, discusses how brow lift surgery can open the eye area, and demonstrates when and where lasers add value. It also answers a frequent question: Can you combine a facelift and laser in one plan?
Start with your goals, then match the tools
Begin by making a list of the things that you notice or would like to change when you look in the mirror. Common goal areas include:
A sagging jawline or neck – Surgical lifting can help restore structure.
Brows that look heavy or a tired look around the eyes – A brow lift can reset position, while eyelid surgery may be discussed separately.
Fine lines, rough texture, or sun damage – Laser resurfacing improves the skin’s surface and stimulates the production of new collagen.
Laxity – “Short-scar” or mini techniques and light resurfacing can be enough.
Your surgeon will map a plan that fits your face and your calendar so healing stays safe and the result looks cohesive—elegant, not overdone.
Facelift options: structure and contour
Facelifts reposition the facial support structures and redrape the skin to help refine the jawline and neck. It’s designed for structure, not for addressing surface texture.
Deep plane facelift: By releasing key retaining ligaments and lifting the deeper planes, this approach can create natural contours and durable results. It’s often chosen when midface descent and jowls are more pronounced, or after a prior lift.
SMAS or mini techniques: These focus on the superficial support layer and feature more minor adjustments. Recovery is shorter and they typically suit earlier changes.
What to expect: better definition where jowls formerly blunted the jawline, a cleaner angle under the chin, and cheeks set back where they belong. The goal is polished, not pulled.
Brow lift surgery: when the upper face needs help
When the brow sits low, it can make the upper eyelids look heavy—even if the lids themselves are treated. In these cases, a brow lift may be the right fix. This procedure adjusts position and softens the deep horizontal and vertical lines of the forehead. Brow lifts are often paired with a facelift, particularly when both lower facial and neck laxity are present. A light laser pass around the eyes is often added later to smooth the texture—think of it as a finishing touch after the lift.
Lasers: the finish that surgery cannot provide
Resurfacing with ablative or fractional lasers refines the outer layer of skin and triggers collagen remodeling. It can soften etched lines, even out color and texture, and tighten the appearance of pores. Settings are tailored to skin tone and goals. Healing ranges from a few days for lighter treatments to two weeks for deeper work, with continued improvement over months. In short: surgery shapes the frame; lasers polish the canvas.
Can you combine a facelift and a laser?
Yes, many patients benefit from a combined approach. When paired together, surgery restores shape while lasers improve the “finish” of the skin. There are two common ways to combine them:
Same setting, lighter resurfacing: Select areas receive fractional or light ablative treatment during surgery. This improves texture without slowing incision healing.
Staged deeper resurfacing: A more intensive laser session is performed after the lift has healed. This strategy suits etched-in lines or significant sun damage.
Your surgeon will recommend sequencing based on skin type, pigment risk, and the extent of lifting. The goal is a balanced result with a single, predictable recovery whenever possible.
Read on Preparing for Your Facelift Surgery with Dr. Fezza: Tips and Advice
Timeline, recovery, and comfort
Every plan is individualized, but many patients follow a similar arc.
First 48 hours: Swelling and tightness peak; head elevation, cool compresses, and prescribed medication keep you comfortable.
Days 7–10: Most sutures come out; makeup is usually allowed; social downtime eases.
Two to three weeks: Many return to non-strenuous work, especially with lighter laser settings.
Four to six weeks: Most exercise resumes; laser glow continues to build as collagen remodels.
You’ll receive clear instructions for cleansing, ointment use, sun protection, and activity to keep healing on track. Simple, steady steps beat complicated routines.
Who is a good candidate?
Candidates are generally healthy, do not smoke, protect their skin from the sun, and have realistic goals. A thorough consultation reviews medical history, medications and supplements, prior procedures, and day-to-day routines that affect healing. If injectables are part of your maintenance, they are often reintroduced after the initial recovery to fine-tune results—tiny tweaks for lasting polish.
Maintenance that protects your investment
Results last longer with consistent care:
- Daily mineral sunscreen and a few targeted skincare steps (antioxidant in the morning, retinoid at night as tolerated).
- Periodic light resurfacing or peels to maintain texture and tone.
- Healthy sleep, hydration, and avoidance of smoking.
Your surgeon will outline a simple plan that fits your skin and schedule so results go the distance.
Choosing the right strategy
Whether you are considering a deep plane facelift, a lighter lift, brow lift surgery, laser resurfacing, or a thoughtful combination, success comes from matching the plan to your anatomy, goals, and timeline. Ask to see unedited before-and-after photos that mirror your concerns, and review how recovery and follow-up will be handled from day one. If you’re curious what a refresh could look like on your features and timeline, book a brief consult to sketch a turn-back-the-clock plan—no pressure, just options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Often, yes. Many surgeons pair a facelift with lighter or fractional resurfacing during the same session, then save deeper resurfacing for later if it’s needed. The call depends on skin type and healing priorities—one visit or two, same destination.
Aging doesn’t stop, but deeper support has been repositioned, so the change tends to age gracefully. Longevity varies with skin quality and sun habits. Your surgeon can outline realistic timelines based on your plan.
No. A facelift targets the lower face and neck. A brow lift comes into play only when brow descent or forehead lines lead the list. Your exam will show whether lifting the “frame” above the eyes adds value—or if lids alone do the trick.
It depends on goals and skin tone. Fractional options work well for many; deeper ablative settings are often staged for etched lines or heavier sun damage. Your surgeon will dial in settings to minimize risk and maximize payoff—no copy-paste plans.
Two to three weeks is common for many patients, depending on the lift type and laser depth. You’ll get clear milestones for work, social time, and exercise so you can plan real life around recovery—not the other way around.