Introduction to Awake Facelift

At Greensboro Plastic Surgery, we’re proud to offer the Awake Facelift—a modern, minimally invasive approach to facial rejuvenation performed by Dr. Collier Pace, a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his skill, precision, and patient-first philosophy. This innovative procedure allows you to remain comfortably awake and relaxed throughout, without the need for general anesthesia.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore facial procedures or you’re seeking a less invasive alternative to a traditional facelift, Dr. Pace and our experienced team are here to guide you through every step. Our goal is to help you achieve a naturally refreshed, more youthful appearance, with less downtime, lower risk, and results that still look like you.

What is an Awake Facelift?

An Awake Facelift is a type of facial rejuvenation procedure performed under local anesthesia with light sedation, rather than general anesthesia. That means you’re fully awake but at ease while we work to restore the youthful appearance of your lower face and jawline.

We utilize precise techniques to lift sagging skin, tighten underlying tissues, and smooth out deep lines—all while you remain alert and actively involved in your own care. This procedure focuses on the mid to lower face, making it ideal for patients bothered by:

  • Jowls or sagging along the jawline
  • Deep nasolabial folds
  • Mild to moderate skin laxity
  • Loss of definition in the lower face

Because it’s performed without general anesthesia, many patients feel more comfortable and in control throughout the process.

mature woman with white shirt

What Are the Benefits of an Awake Facelift?

Choosing an Awake Facelift in Greensboro, NC, offers many advantages for patients seeking natural-looking rejuvenation with a lower-risk approach. This method delivers beautiful results while minimizing the stress and side effects associated with traditional surgery.

Benefits include:

  • No need for general anesthesia
  • Shorter recovery time
  • Lower risk of complications
  • Reduced swelling and bruising
  • More affordable than a full facelift
  • Excellent option for patients with medical concerns

You’ll enjoy a refreshed look that still feels like you, just more youthful and defined.

Who Are the Best Candidates For an Awake Facelift?

Many of our patients at Greensboro Plastic Surgery are excellent candidates for this procedure. If you’re starting to notice visible signs of aging in your face but aren’t ready for a full surgical facelift, this could be an ideal solution.

You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Have mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face
  • They are generally in good health
  • Prefer to avoid general anesthesia
  • Want subtle, natural-looking improvements
  • Are you looking for a shorter, simpler recovery
  • We’ll assess your facial structure and aesthetic goals during your private consultation to determine the best approach for you.

What to Expect on the Day of Awake Facelift Surgery

On the day of your Awake Facelift at Greensboro Plastic Surgery, you’ll be welcomed into our calm, private surgical suite, where your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Dr. Collier Pace, our board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial procedures, will personally perform your surgery using a meticulous, patient-centered approach.

The process begins with the administration of local anesthesia and optional nitrous oxide gas to help you feel relaxed and at ease. You’ll remain awake throughout the procedure, but you won’t feel any pain—just a sense of calm and reassurance knowing you’re in expert hands.

The surgery typically lasts between 21 and 32 hours, depending on your specific treatment plan. During the procedure, Dr. Pace will carefully lift and reposition the skin and underlying tissues of your lower face to restore a smoother, more youthful appearance. Many patients are surprised by how relaxed the experience feels—some even engage in light conversation during surgery.

After the procedure, you’ll be able to go home the same day. Our team will provide you with personalized aftercare instructions and a recovery kit to ensure your healing process is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Awake Facelift Recovery

Recovery after an Awake Facelift is generally faster and easier than with traditional facelift surgery. Since we avoid general anesthesia and use less invasive methods, most patients return to normal non-strenuous activities within a week.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Mild swelling and bruising for the first few days
  • Use of a compression garment as advised
  • Minimal discomfort, easily managed with over-the-counter medication after the first few days
  • Return to work and social events in 1-2 weeks.
    • Our team will be available to check in and ensure your recovery is progressing beautifully.

Why Choose Dr. Pace?

At Greensboro Plastic Surgery, your comfort and confidence are our top priorities. Our board-certified plastic surgeons bring decades of experience to every procedure, and we specialize in creating natural-looking results with the most advanced techniques available. Dr. Collier Pace is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American College of Surgeons (FACS), the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and the Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (SESPERS). We understand that choosing facial surgery is a personal decision, and we’re here to support you through it with honesty, skill, and care

Dr. Pace sitting on a chair smiling.
Portrait of Dr. Pace at his practice in Greensboro. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Collier Pace | Greensboro Plastic Surgery.

Schedule your consultation

If you’re ready to refresh your look without the risks associated with general anesthesia, we invite you to schedule a private consultation for an Awake Facelift with Dr. Pace in Greensboro, NC. We’ll walk you through the process, discuss your goals, and ensure you feel confident about your options. Your journey to a more youthful, confident you starts here.

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Patient resources

At Greensboro Plastic Surgery, we believe that knowledge is power, which is why we are open and upfront about every aspect of your procedure. We have created a page to address any of your concerns and help you make the best decisions for you and your body. Please read through the materials below, and don’t hesitate to reach out and set up your consultation to learn more about what we can do for you.