Endoscopic Facelift Cost and Procedure Guide

Thinking about a facelift but not sure which type best fits your goals? When you start exploring facial rejuvenation procedures, you may quickly realize you have a lot of options. From traditional facelifts to mini facelifts, midface lifts to liquid facelifts, there are a variety of facelift types to evaluate. One option to consider? An endoscopic facelift, which can offer smaller incisions and quicker recovery than a traditional facelift.¹ Read on to learn if an endoscopic facelift may be a fit for your aesthetic goals.

What Is an Endoscopic Facelift?

An endoscopic facelift is a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation procedure that uses an endoscope — a tiny camera inserted under the skin — to lift and tighten the deeper layers of the face. The endoscope allows the surgeon to see and access underlying tissues without the need for large or extended incisions. This can result in a lifted, more youthful appearance with less scarring and less downtime compared to a traditional facelift.¹

What does an endoscopic facelift address?

An endoscopic facelift targets the middle of the face to address mild to moderate sagging and aging. An endoscopic facelift can address:¹

• Lines between the eyes
• Marionette lines
• Mild sagging of the cheeks
• Nasolabial folds

An endoscopic facelift can also be combined with other facial procedures, such as eyelid or brow surgery, for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.¹

Who is a good candidate for an endoscopic facelift?

Since there are a variety of facelift options, it’s best to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine if an endoscopic facelift is an option for you. Good candidates for an endoscopic facelift are often:¹

• Men and women in their 30s, 40s or 50s
• Those looking to address mild to moderate facial aging

Patients should also be in good overall health, non-smokers and looking for subtle, realistic results from the procedure.²

Endoscopic Facelift vs. a Traditional Facelift

There are many advantages to considering an endoscopic facelift vs. a traditional facelift. Compared to a traditional facelift, an endoscopic facelift:

• Can be less invasive²
• Has a lower potential for complications²
• Has less bleeding, bruising and swelling³
• Involves less downtime²
• Is more suitable for younger clients²
• Offers improved visual access to tissue and facial structure with the endoscope³
• Offers more subtle, natural-looking results²
• Provides a quicker recovery²
• Uses smaller incisions²

An endoscopic facelift is not able to address excessive sagging or loose skin in the chin, jawline or jowls. For these concerns, a traditional facelift may be a more appropriate option.¹

How Much Does an Endoscopic Facelift Cost?

The national average cost* of an endoscopic facelift is $9,603, but the cost can range between $7,372 and $17,601. The total cost of an endoscopic facelift can vary based on the surgeon’s experience, surgical center fees, anesthesia, procedure time and geographic location.⁴

Calculate the costs of an endoscopic facelift near you*

Average cost of endoscopic facelift by state/district

Here are the average costs* of an endoscopic facelift for all 50 states and the District of Columbia:⁴

Is an endoscopic facelift covered by insurance?

Facelifts are considered cosmetic procedures and typically not covered by health insurance plans, but provider locations may offer in-house financing to help spread out the cost of an endoscopic facelift.⁵ You can also apply for the CareCredit credit card to help you pay for an endoscopic facelift over time.**

The Endoscopic Facelift Process

If you’re considering getting an endoscopic facelift, here is what to expect during the process.

Preparation

When considering an endoscopic facelift, you’ll want to start by scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can analyze your facial structure, skin laxity and aesthetic goals as well as provide information on any complementary or alternative procedures you may want to consider. The surgeon may provide special pre-op instructions before the procedure.³

Procedure

During an endoscopic facelift, patients are placed under general anesthesia. After making several small incisions hidden behind the ears and hairline, the surgeon will use an endoscope and other specialized instruments to lift and reposition the deeper facial layers with precision while minimizing tissue disruption.³

After the necessary adjustments are complete, the surgeon will carefully secure the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) — the layer covering the facial muscles — in its new, lifted position using a series of sutures. The total procedure typically lasts two to five hours, depending on the complexity as well as any additional treatments being performed at the same time.³

Recovery

After the procedure, the face will be wrapped in bandages or a postoperative garment. Swelling and tightness are normal during the early healing period, and patients are advised to limit neck and jaw movement. Staples can often be removed one week after surgery, with additional skin sutures removed by the following week.³

Many patients can return to work two weeks after an endoscopic facelift. However, it may take up to six weeks to return to a full range of physical activities.³

Endoscopic Facelift Results

Swelling and tightness gradually decline as facial tissues settle into their new position. The final results from an endoscopic facelift typically emerge within six to 12 months. The results of an endoscopic facelift can last five to 10 years, depending on factors such as skin quality, lifestyle and proper skin care.³

Potential Side Effects

While less invasive than a traditional facelift, an endoscopic facelift is still a surgical procedure. While generally considered a safe option, there are potential side effects:⁶

• Damage to blood vessels
• Damage to nerves
• Infection
• Numbness
• Seromas

Follow the preoperative and postoperative instructions from your surgeon to help reduce the chance of complications.

Next Steps for Your Endoscopic Facelift

If you’re starting to notice sagging or loss of definition in your face, an endoscopic facelift could be a great way to achieve a natural, refreshed look. This minimally invasive procedure is especially suited for those in their 30s, 40s or 50s who want subtle lifting and tightening without the downtime and recovery of a traditional facelift. To learn if it’s the right option for you, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and personalized treatment plan.

Financing an Endoscopic Facelift With the CareCredit Credit Card

Ready to revitalize your appearance and boost your confidence? The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for endoscopic facelifts and related expenses not covered by health insurance.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a cosmetic doctor or cosmetic surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit so you can stop dreaming and start living your best life. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Kate Bayless is a health and wellness freelance writer with 20 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Parents, Women’s Health, Beachbody and OpenFit.