At Long Island Facelift, many of our patients come to us not because they want to look dramatically different, but because they want to look like themselves again. Over time, sagging skin, volume loss, and deep lines can make people feel out of sync with how they see themselves inside.

In this story, we are sharing the experience of Elaine, a 57-year-old from Huntington, NY, who underwent a facelift with us. Like many of our patients, Elaine wanted to look refreshed, not “done.” She reflects now on how the procedure helped her restore confidence, both personally and professionally.

Elaine will now give us more insight into her journey and how life has changed since her surgery.

Noticing the Disconnect

What made you start thinking about having a facelift?

I had never been someone obsessed with appearance. I wore minimal makeup and kept things natural. But around my mid-fifties, I started noticing a disconnect between how I felt and what I saw in the mirror.

My lower face had started to sag. My jawline softened. I had deep lines around my mouth and noticed the skin on my neck losing firmness. Every time I got on a video call or saw a photo, I focused only on those areas. I found myself avoiding pictures altogether.

The hardest part was that I still felt energetic and vibrant on the inside. But my face looked tired, like I had not slept in weeks. I was not looking for a drastic transformation. I just wanted to look more like myself again.

Choosing the Right Practice

How did you decide on Long Island Facelift?

I live in Suffolk County, so I wanted to find a local expert with a clear focus on facial procedures. I looked into several options, but Long Island Facelift stood out to me.

Their entire approach felt natural and honest. I appreciated the way they explained the procedure, recovery, and realistic outcomes. The before-and-after photos looked like actual people, not overly pulled or frozen faces.

During my consultation, Dr. B took time to understand what bothered me and what I hoped to achieve. We discussed the areas I was concerned about and how a lower facelift and neck lift combination could subtly lift and refine my features.

There was no pressure. I left feeling informed and empowered.

The First Weeks After Surgery

What was your recovery experience like?

Recovery was smoother than I expected, but I definitely needed to prepare for downtime. The first three days were the most uncomfortable. I felt tightness and some bruising, especially around my neck and jaw.

I followed every instruction closely. I kept my head elevated, avoided bending or lifting, and stayed hydrated. I also gave myself permission to rest. I cleared my schedule and let my body do what it needed to do.

Some things that helped me during recovery were:

  • Setting up a recovery station: I had everything I needed within reach, including ice packs, water, and entertainment.
  • Taking photos: Seeing progress day by day helped me stay positive during the swelling phase.
  • Trusting the timeline: I reminded myself that healing is a process and not to panic if things looked uneven at first.
  • Being patient with social plans: I avoided big events for the first month and eased back in once I felt ready.

By week three, I was out walking and running errands with minimal swelling. At the six-week mark, I returned to work feeling refreshed and more confident.

What Changed Over Time

How have things evolved since the surgery?

One of the most interesting things is that people don’t usually guess I had surgery. Instead, they tell me I look well-rested, healthy, or ask if I’ve been on vacation. That is exactly the result I wanted.

Physically, my jawline looks defined again. My neck no longer has that loose skin that used to bother me. The lines around my mouth and lower cheeks are much softer. But what changed the most was how I feel when I look in the mirror.

I don’t avoid my reflection anymore. I feel like my appearance now matches the energy and confidence I feel internally. Whether I am getting ready for work or going out with friends, I feel more present and engaged.

My Perspective

How do you feel now after your facelift?

I feel grateful. Not just for the result, but for what it gave me emotionally. I no longer feel distracted by my appearance. I feel more at ease in social settings, more confident on camera, and more open to experiences.

I also appreciate that the results still look natural. Nothing feels tight or artificial. The aging process has not stopped, of course, but I feel like it was rewound in a subtle and meaningful way.

This wasn’t about chasing youth. It was about showing up in the world in a way that felt true to who I am.

Honest Advice for Other Women

What would you tell someone who is thinking about having a facelift?

Every woman has her own reasons for considering this. If you are feeling hesitant, that is completely normal. What matters is that the decision feels right for you.

Here are a few things I would share:

  • Do it for yourself: Not for a partner, not for work, but for your own confidence.
  • Find a surgeon who listens: Look for someone who understands your goals and respects your natural look.
  • Understand the healing curve: Results take time to settle. Be patient and trust the process.
  • Plan your recovery: Giving yourself space to heal is key to feeling good long term.
  • Be realistic but hopeful: This is not about perfection. It is about feeling more like yourself again.

If you are constantly thinking about it, that may be a sign to explore it further.

Considering a Facelift on Long Island?

Elaine’s story is a powerful reminder that facelift surgery is not just about looking younger. It is about restoring confidence and comfort in your own skin. At Long Island Facelift, we take a personalized approach to help patients achieve results that are subtle, natural, and lasting.

If you are ready to learn more about what life could look like one year after facelift surgery, schedule a consultation with our team. We are here to guide you through every step of the process.