Facelift — SMAS, Deep Plane & Mini

Dr. George Moynihan offers a full spectrum of facelift techniques: SMAS facelift (7–10 years longevity), deep plane facelift (10–15+ years), mini facelift (approximately 90 minutes, 3–5 year results), and the proprietary Gold Lift. The deep plane technique releases deep facial ligaments and repositions the SMAS layer and cheek fat pads for natural, long-lasting, low-tension results. Recovery involves suture removal at 5–7 days and return to work within 10–14 days.

Gold Coast Plastic Surgery is one of the few practices in the Chicago metropolitan area offering a full suite of facelift techniques performed by a surgeon with specific fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. George Moynihan completed a dedicated one-year AAFPRS fellowship under Dr. Daniel E. Rousso in Birmingham, AL — a program focused exclusively on the face, neck, and head. The deep plane facelift is the most comprehensive option, releasing the deep retaining ligaments of the face including the zygomatic, masseteric cutaneous, and mandibular ligaments, allowing the entire musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) and cheek fat pads to be repositioned as a composite unit. This produces results lasting 10–15 or more years with a natural appearance and minimal tension on skin closure. The SMAS facelift targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system through a more limited ligament release, delivering results typically lasting 7–10 years. The mini facelift is a shorter procedure of approximately 90 minutes suited to patients with early jowling and less laxity, with results in the 3–5 year range. The Gold Lift is a proprietary approach developed at the practice, tailored to each patient's anatomy and aging pattern. All facelift procedures may be combined with neck lift, brow lift, eyelid surgery, or facial fat grafting for comprehensive rejuvenation. Consultations include computer imaging for pre-operative planning. The practice is located on W. Institute Place in Chicago, conveniently serving patients from Lincoln Park, Old Town, Evanston, and the broader Illinois and Midwest region. Pricing is custom-quoted based on technique and patient anatomy.