Facelift in Carmel & Indianapolis
Restore natural, youthful facial contours with Dr. John Aker's SMAS technique — results that look like you, only younger. Board-certified, 30+ years.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that removes excess facial skin, tightens underlying facial muscles (the SMAS layer), and repositions tissues to restore a naturally youthful appearance. Unlike treatments that merely relax wrinkles at the surface, a facelift addresses the structural changes of aging — sagging skin, descended facial fat, and weakened muscle — from the inside out.
Dr. Aker uses proven SMAS-based techniques that avoid the "pulled" look associated with older facelift approaches. By repositioning the deeper tissue layer rather than simply tightening the skin, results appear natural and age gracefully over time. The incisions are carefully placed within the hairline and around the ears to minimize visible scarring.
Dr. Aker has performed facelift surgery for more than 30 years and has been recognized as an Indianapolis Monthly Top Doctor for facial plastic surgery 19 consecutive times. My Plastic Surgery Group serves patients from Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, and across the state.
Dr. Aker's Facelift Technique
Dr. Aker performs a SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) facelift — the gold standard in facial rejuvenation surgery. The SMAS is a layer of muscle and connective tissue beneath the skin that descends with age. By lifting and securing this layer directly, Dr. Aker achieves results that last significantly longer than skin-only techniques and avoid any unnatural tightness or distortion of facial features.
Incisions are placed strategically within the hairline, in front of and behind the ear, and in the natural crease behind the ear — positioned to heal into virtually invisible lines. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes 3–5 hours depending on the scope of work and whether companion procedures are included.
Dr. Aker completed his plastic surgery training at Penn State and his aesthetic surgery fellowship at NYU — providing the surgical foundation for technically demanding procedures like the deep-plane and extended SMAS facelift.
Who Is a Candidate for a Facelift?
Good candidates are typically age 40 or older with visible signs of facial aging that have not responded adequately to non-surgical treatments. Key candidacy factors Dr. Aker evaluates:
- Visible facial sagging and jowls along the jawline
- Deep nasolabial folds (smile lines) or marionette lines
- Excess skin under the chin and along the jaw
- Loss of definition between the face and neck
- Good general health with no uncontrolled medical conditions
- Non-smoker — all nicotine products must be stopped before surgery
- Realistic expectations about outcomes and recovery
Patients who are not ready for a full facelift may be candidates for a mini facelift or non-surgical treatments such as Morpheus8 or fillers. Dr. Aker will discuss your full range of options during consultation.
You Don't Recover Alone
After surgery, you're driven to our dedicated recovery suite at Home2 Suites by Hilton in Carmel, where one of our caregivers — Evelyn, Lori, or Charmaine — meets you in the lobby and provides monitored overnight care, with a direct line to Dr. Aker, Dr. Beckman, and PA Amanda. You're never sent home to an empty house.
Learn About the Recovery SuiteFacelift Recovery Timeline
Recovery from facelift surgery is gradual and individualized. Most patients experience the following:
- Days 1–3: swelling, bruising, and tightness are most pronounced; rest and head elevation recommended
- Week 1: drains (if used) typically removed; sutures may be removed at 1 week
- Week 2: most patients return to work and light social activities; makeup can typically be worn
- Weeks 3–4: bruising fully resolved; most swelling subsided; patients comfortable in public
- 3–6 months: final results visible as residual swelling fully resolves and the skin settles
Strenuous exercise is restricted for approximately 4–6 weeks. Nicotine must be avoided throughout recovery to ensure optimal healing and minimize complication risk.
Facelift Cost in Indiana
Standard pricing varies with surgical complexity, technique, and whether companion procedures are performed. A consultation is required for a personalized quote — financing options available.
Related Procedures
Neck Lift
Tightens loose neck skin and bands to eliminate the 'turkey wattle.'
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Brow Lift
Raises heavy brows and smooths forehead lines with an endoscopic technique.
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Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Removes excess upper/lower eyelid skin and under-eye bags for a refreshed look.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
How long do facelift results last?
Will I look "done" or unnatural after a facelift?
What is the difference between a facelift and a mini facelift?
How long is facelift recovery?
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule your consultation with Dr. John Aker or Dr. Di Beckman in Carmel, Indiana. 4.8★ rated · Board-certified · 30+ years experience.