I am a 49 year old female looking to have a facelift, but how long do they last? Are there certain factors that make it more likely to need a second procedure in the future?

The length a facelift lasts depends upon the technique used to perform the facelift. I rely on a tougher, fibrous layer beneath the skin called the SMAS to achieve the results obtained from a facelift. This provides a more youthful appearance in the jawline and neckline that is longer lasting. However, the aging process does not stop with this or any other type of procedure. The likelihood of needing a second procedure depends upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to skin care, elasticity of skin, collagen quality of skin, and environmental exposures (sun, smoking).