Definition

Facial surgery refers to surgical procedures that alter or reconstruct the face to enhance its appearance or improve its function. Facial plastic surgery can address cosmetic needs to improve appearance. Facial reconstructive surgery can restore function and address changes caused by injury, disease or congenital conditions.

At UF Health, our specialists offer solutions tailored to each patient's unique needs. We help those considering a facelift or other cosmetic surgery, as well as those who need reconstruction for medical reasons. To provide comprehensive care, our experienced team focuses on achieving natural-looking results while supporting both facial function and appearance as much as possible.

Alternative names

Facial plastic surgery; Facial reconstructive surgery; Facial reconstruction; Facial cosmetic surgery; Craniofacial surgery; Maxillofacial surgery; Facial aesthetic surgery; Facial soft tissue surgery

Types of facial surgery

Facial surgery can be categorized into several types based on the primary goals of the procedure:

• Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery): Involves tightening the muscle, removing excess skin or fat from the eyelids to improve appearance, reduce puffiness and enhance vision when drooping eyelids interfere with sight
• Chin augmentation: Enhances the chin’s size and shape, thereby improving facial balance and proportion
• Facelift (rhytidectomy): Tightens the skin and underlying tissues of the face to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sagging and drooping, providing a more youthful and refreshed look
• Facial reconstruction: Rebuilds and restores the face’s function and appearance after congenital differences, injury, trauma or cancer. This may involve bone grafts, tissue flaps and other advanced techniques
• Otoplasty (ear surgery): Corrects protruding or misshapen ears, restoring a more natural look and improving self-confidence
• Rhinoplasty (nose surgery): Reshapes or resizes the nose, either for cosmetic reasons or to improve breathing function in people with nasal problems

Candidates

Some individuals opt for a cosmetic procedure to enhance facial features or reduce signs of aging. Others may need it to correct breathing problems, vision obstruction or facial injuries.

Reconstructive surgery can also support those with birth conditions or damage caused by illness or trauma. If you’re considering facial surgery, talk to a qualified plastic surgeon to see what options are right for your needs and goals.

Risks of facial surgery

Facial surgery carries several potential risks and complications that each patient should be aware of before undergoing the procedure:

• Anesthesia risks
• Bleeding
• Delayed healing
• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Pain and discomfort
• Scarring
• Surgical complications
• Unsatisfactory results

Procedure

The process of facial surgery depends on your specific needs, but most patients can expect a few general steps. Before surgery, you’ll have a consultation where your plastic surgeon will evaluate your features, discuss your goals and create a personalized plan. This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand what the procedure entails.

Facial surgery is often done under general anesthesia, but in some cases, local anesthesia may be used. During the procedure, your surgeon will make small incisions — usually placed in natural skin folds — to minimize visible scarring.

Aftercare and recovery

Recovery after facial surgery varies depending on the procedure, but most patients experience some swelling, bruising and discomfort that improve over time. For less invasive surgeries, recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks, allowing a return to work and light activities relatively quickly. More involved procedures often require a more extended healing period, sometimes several weeks, before swelling fully subsides and the final results become apparent.

Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions is essential for a smooth recovery. This may include avoiding strenuous activity, keeping your head elevated to reduce swelling and using prescribed ointments or medications. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor your healing and address any concerns that may arise.

Before and after images

See how we've helped patients achieve their goals through facelift surgery and other plastic surgery procedures.

This entry was written by Jennifer Cruz-Urbano, marketing specialist, and reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Lauren Yarholar. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.