Revision Facelift Guide | Correcting Unsatisfactory or Aging Facelift Results

Not satisfied with the results of your previous facelift—or noticing that time has caught up again? A Revision Facelift (also called a Secondary Facelift) is a specialized procedure that corrects or enhances the results of a prior facelift. Whether you're experiencing asymmetry, scar issues, or sagging that’s returned over time, this surgery offers a second chance at a natural, youthful result—especially when performed by a skilled, experienced surgeon.

What Is a Revision Facelift?

A Revision Facelift is a surgical procedure designed to:

  • Improve unsatisfactory results from a previous facelift
  • Correct facial asymmetry or poor scarring
  • Restore youthful contours as aging continues over time
  • Refine or update old techniques using modern surgical methods

It’s typically performed 5–10 years after the initial facelift, although some patients seek it sooner due to complications or poor outcomes.


Common Reasons for Revision Facelift

  • Sagging has returned due to natural aging
  • Results look overdone or unnatural
  • Visible or thick scars around the ears or hairline
  • Facial asymmetry after the first surgery
  • Residual jowls or neck laxity
  • Distorted earlobes (“pixie ear” deformity)
  • Overly tight or pulled skin


What’s Different About a Revision Facelift?

Revision surgery is more complex than a first-time facelift. It often involves:

  • Working with scar tissue
  • Navigating altered anatomy
  • Addressing compromised blood supply
  • Reversing overdone lifting or volume loss
  • Using more advanced techniques (like SMAS re-elevation or fat grafting)

That’s why it’s crucial to choose a surgeon experienced in revision facial surgery.


Types of Revision Facelift Procedures

Procedure TypePurposeSMAS Redo LiftDeep tissue tightening when previous lift was superficialNeck Lift RevisionCorrects residual or recurring neck laxityScar RevisionImproves visible or thick scars from earlier faceliftFat GraftingRestores lost volume or corrects hollownessEarlobe RepairFixes stretched or distorted earlobesMini Lift UpdateFor touch-ups after a previous mini facelift


Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for a revision facelift if:

  • You had a facelift 5+ years ago, and aging signs have returned
  • Your initial results did not meet expectations
  • You have visible scarring, asymmetry, or irregular contours
  • You're in good health and understand the risks and limitations
  • You are looking for refinement, not perfection


What to Expect from the Surgery

  1. Consultation: Detailed facial analysis and review of previous surgical history
  2. Anesthesia: Usually general or twilight sedation
  3. Incisions: Typically along previous scars, adjusted as needed
  4. Dissection: Careful lifting of scarred tissue and deep plane tightening
  5. Volume Correction: May include fat grafting or filler
  6. Skin Redraping: Skin is re-draped naturally to avoid a tight or “pulled” look

Surgery Duration: 2–5 hours
 Outpatient: Most patients go home the same day


Recovery After a Revision Facelift

  • Downtime: 10–14 days
  • Swelling & bruising: Common but may last longer than first surgery
  • Stitches: Removed 5–10 days after surgery
  • Return to work: Typically 2 weeks
  • Final results: Visible within 1–3 months

Note: Healing may take longer due to scar tissue from the previous surgery.


How Long Do Results Last?

  • A revision facelift can last 7–10 years, depending on skin quality and aging
  • Maintenance with threads, fillers, or skin tightening can help prolong results

Revision Facelift Cost (Estimated Range)

RegionEstimated Cost (USD)South Korea₩10M – ₩18M ($7,500–$13,500)USA / Canada$12,000 – $25,000UK / Europe£9,000 – £18,000


Revision surgeries are more complex and often more expensive than primary lifts.

Tips for a Successful Revision

  • Wait at least 6–12 months after your previous surgery for revision
  • Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in revision facelifts
  • Bring before/after photos of your original procedure
  • Be realistic—perfection isn’t possible, but refinement is




A Revision Facelift offers patients the opportunity to correct and enhance the results of a previous lift—whether due to aging or an unsatisfactory outcome. While more complex than a first-time procedure, it can deliver natural, refreshed, and more balanced results in the hands of the right surgeon.

Considering a revision facelift in Korea?
Top clinics in Seoul’s Gangnam district offer advanced facial revision surgery, English-speaking staff, and competitive pricing for international patients seeking second-time success.

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