What’s Fuelling the Facelift Comeback?

From Ozempic face to “wide awake” surgery: What’s fuelling the facelift comeback?

Regenerative Facial Surgery & Medicine

One of the most exciting developments in facial rejuvenation surgery is the arrival of regenerative techniques that utilise fat, stem cells, and exosomes. Regenerative medicine and surgery aim not only to restore the face from the effects of ageing, but also to repair and rejuvenate at a cellular level — addressing ageing and tissue health at their core.

“We were very fortunate to hear from two of the world’s leading regenerative facial surgeons, Dr Steve Cohen (US) and Dr Alexis Verpaele (Belgium), at this year’s BAAPS conference about their ground-breaking and innovative work in this area. The potential for future treatments is huge, and we look forward to seeing how this field develops over the coming years,” said Nora.

“Wide Awake” Facelifts

New techniques are also driving demand for facelifts. At the recent 2025 BAAPS “Redefining Aesthetics” conference, leading surgeons from around the world discussed how innovative approaches are reshaping the field.

One such advancement, presented by UK plastic surgeon Simon Lee, is the use of endoscopic short-scar surgery for the upper and mid-face, as well as the periocular region, combined with deep-plane face and neck surgery. Notably, Mr Lee performs his face and neck lift surgery under local anaesthetic as outpatient treatments — commonly referred to as “wide awake” surgery. According to Lee, 95% of his facelift patients choose to remain awake during surgery and can leave the hospital the same day. This results in faster recovery, avoidance of general anaesthetic-related risks, and reduced costs due to the lack of an overnight hospital stay.

“This is an exciting time in facelift surgery. With modern and up-to-date techniques, natural outcomes can be achieved. Many of these procedures are now possible under local anaesthetic or with minimal access and almost invisible scars. As a group, BAAPS surgeons are embracing the important concepts of deep-plane reshaping and preservation techniques, leading international trends,” said Lee.

BAAPS reminds the public that any decision to undergo cosmetic surgery should be informed, considered, and carried out by a qualified specialist. To support patients, BAAPS provides an accredited directory of certified plastic surgeons across the UK — searchable by procedure — ensuring the highest standards of care and safety.

^{Source: https://baaps.org.uk/media/press_releases/1895/from_ozempic_face_to_wide_awake_surgery_whats_fuelling_the_facelift_comeback}