If you're considering a facelift in Austin, before-and-after photos can be an invaluable resource. They give you a glimpse of potential results and help you evaluate the skill and artistry of the surgeon. However, not all galleries are created equal.
Why Before-and-After Photos Matter
- Assess natural results: A modern facelift should enhance your appearance without making you look overly tight or unnatural
- Set realistic expectations: Comparing photos of patients with features similar to yours gives you a realistic idea of what to expect
- Evaluate consistency: A skilled surgeon shows consistent results across a range of patients — including different facial features, which demonstrates technique adaptability
Where to Find Reliable Photos
The Surgeon's Website
Most reputable surgeons feature a gallery on their website. At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we showcase a variety of patient outcomes. Note that many facelift patients choose not to have photos posted publicly — so a surgeon with few photos isn't necessarily inexperienced. Ask during consultation for additional photos.
Professional Organizations
ASPS and ASAPS directories often include surgeon profiles with photo galleries and verified credentials.
Independent Review Sites
RealSelf allows patients to share their own photos, including progress photos that show recovery stages — helpful for setting expectations.
Social Media
Instagram and Facebook can feature work, but scrutinize for consistent poses, lighting, makeup, and filters. Be cautious of curated or filtered imagery.
What to Look for in Photos
Standardized Photography
Professional photos should have consistent lighting (no distorting shadows), neutral backgrounds, identical angles (front, both profiles, three-quarter views), and no makeup or retouching.
Facial Harmony
Successful results maintain or enhance balance — no area should look out of proportion. A heart-shaped face is typically the most desirable outcome.
Scarring
Incision lines should be well-concealed along the hairline or behind the ears. Distorted ears or wide scars typically indicate blood flow issues or excessive skin tension — hallmarks of older-style "windswept" facelifts.
Skin Texture
Improved laxity is the hallmark of a good facelift. Without skin resurfacing, the skin can sometimes not match the overall youthfulness of the repositioned face.
Natural Expression
The patient's expression should remain natural and relaxed. Beware of surgeons whose results appear overly tight or mask-like. A smiling post-op photo is positive, but also assess the neutral-expression photo — that's where true results show.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of variety: Only a few photos may not evidence consistency
- Unrealistic results: If results seem too perfect or identical across patients, they may not reflect reality
- Poor photo quality: Blurry, poorly lit, or selfie-style photos obscure true outcomes
- Preop taken in the OR holding area at 6am, postop in a studio with makeup and a smile: An unfortunately common practice that creates misleading comparisons
More Than Just Photos: Other Factors
- Board certification in plastic or facial reconstructive surgery (ENT-trained facial plastic surgeons also qualify)
- Bedside manner — if a complication arises, will this surgeon care for you through it? If the answer is "maybe," look elsewhere
- Transparent pricing — check our menu of services for honest starting costs
Ready to see our work? Explore our before-and-after gallery or schedule a consultation with Dr. Levesque.