Ponytail Facelift: Costs, Candidacy, What To Expect, And More

The term “Ponytail Facelift” refers to a surgical approach that may involve repositioning tissues in the upper face or neckline. Some may choose this highly invasive and risky procedure to address changes associated with ageing or variations in skin elasticity.

If you’re exploring this procedure, you may have questions about various aspects, including the potential costs. Costs can depend on factors like the complexity of the surgery, individual anatomy, and the level of care required. 

This article will provide a general overview of the costs typically associated with a ponytail facelift in Sydney.

What is a Ponytail Facelift?

Ponytail facelifts are a type of minimally-invasive facelift that can help to improve the appearance of your face. The procedure involves a carefully placed discreet incision in the hairline, allowing the surgeon to reach the deeper structures of the upper face and muscle tissue. The muscles are moved higher to highlight, and redefine the patient’s cheekbone and brow line.

While the cost of a ponytail facelift will vary depending on factors such as the clinic you choose and the extent of treatment you need, the starting cost in Sydney is around $19,000. The final cost will be much higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances, like the complexity of the procedure or additional care required.

What factors affect the cost of a Ponytail Facelift?

There are a few factors that contribute to the total cost of a ponytail facelift procedure:

• The surgeon’s fee will vary depending on their experience and reputation.
• The cost of anaesthesia and operating room time must be considered.
• Post-operative care and follow-up visits will also add to the final bill.
• In some cases, needing complementary treatments or accommodations for extended recovery may increase the cost. You must discuss all potential additional expenses during your consultation.
• Costs can also vary based on the city or region where the procedure was performed. Operating expenses and market demand will differ.

Each facelift procedure at Artiste Plastic Surgery is tailored to the patient’s needs, so the cost may vary. On average, consultation fees vary from $350 to $500, the anaesthetic fees vary from $650 to $750 per hour of surgery, and hospital fees range from $3,000 to $8,000 for 1-6 hours of the procedure.

During your consultation with, you can be assured that the procedure will be illustrated in detail, and you will be given a detailed instruction sheet on the expected post-operative course and potential complications.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Ponytail Facelift?

The concept of “candidacy” in elective plastic surgery, such as a Ponytail Facelift, is different from being a candidate for an award or a job. It’s not just about being “eligible” but about whether the procedure aligns with your overall health, lifestyle, and personal goals. It’s a collaborative decision made with your surgeon to ensure the procedure is safe and suitable for your unique situation.

In Good Physical Health

For invasive surgeries like a Ponytail Facelift, “candidacy” often involves being in good physical health with no conditions which could complicate surgery or healing. This is just one aspect of it.

Having Realistic Outcomes

It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes, what it can and cannot achieve, and to have a sound mind. Emotional readiness is key, as individuals should undergo mental health screenings, such as for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), to ensure their reasons for surgery are well-founded. 

Your surgeon will also consider your willingness to follow pre- and post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding smoking and allowing adequate recovery time.

What Can I Expect During the Procedure?

A ponytail facelift surgery is considered an endoscopic procedure and is often performed using small instruments and a camera.

Small incisions are made along the temporal hairline where they will insert a visual probe, then your surgeon would lift the underlying tissues, lifting the brows and outer corners of the eyes.

Since the procedure is less invasive, and involves smaller incisions along the hairline in comparison to traditional facelifts, bruising and scarring during recovery are minimised. They are expected, but are not as severe.

What to Expect After a Ponytail Facelift?

Expect some initial swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort around the incision area immediately after surgery. All of this is normal and will go away within a few days to weeks.

You may be prescribed pain medication and be recommended cold compresses or ice packs to manage discomfort.

Rest and relaxation are crucial in the first week of healing. Don’t engage in heavy activities like exercise. 

Avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects. Expect to return to light activities within 1-2 weeks, but be sure to avoid physical activity for at least 2.5 months, or as instructed by the surgeon.

It is crucial you follow post-operative care instructions, like wound care, scar management, and rest. The results of your ponytail facelift are only as good as how you religiously adhere to your surgeon’s instructions.

However, take note that the length of your recovery will vary. Results will also inevitably be different from person to person. The advice and care your surgeon has prescribed will be specific to your case, so do not treat the above guide as definitive.

Always consult your surgeon for personalised recommendations and follow their instructions closely.

Hopefully this guide has given you a little bit of understanding as to the cost of a ponytail face lift. Remember, the figures we’ve provided are general estimates and may not reflect your unique situation. The total cost of the procedure will vary depending on the complexity, specific care plan from your surgeon, and any additional fees that will be put in writing.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.