Cost of a Face Lift in Australia: What to Expect

Thinking about a face lift to refresh your look? In Australia, costs typically range from $15,000 to $70,000+, depending on the surgeon’s expertise, procedure type (mini vs. full facelift), and clinic location. Prices cover surgery, anaesthesia, hospital fees, and follow-up care. 

While it’s a big investment, a face lift can smooth wrinkles, tighten skin, and restore youthful contours for years. This blog breaks down what impacts pricing—like surgeon experience or combining treatments—so you can budget wisely. Always consult a certified specialist to plan your journey. 

Note: Medicare doesn’t cover cosmetic procedures.

Average Cost of a Face Lift in Australia

The cost of a face lift in Australia typically ranges from $12,000 to $70,000+, with most patients paying between $20,000 and $35,000 for a standard procedure. Prices vary based on the surgeon’s skill, the technique used, and clinic’s location. 

Advanced methods like the deep plane facelift or combined procedures (e.g., face and neck lift) often reach $35,000–$70,000+, while mini facelifts for mild sagging start around $15,000–$25,000. Understanding these factors helps you budget effectively and avoid hidden costs.

1. Surgeon’s Expertise and Qualifications

Board-certified plastic surgeons (FRACS) with specialised training in facial procedures often charge higher fees, reflecting their expertise and lower complication rates. For example, a leading Sydney surgeon might charge $27,500–$40,000 for a full facelift, while less experienced providers may offer lower rates (starting around $12,000). 

However, choosing a qualified surgeon ensures natural results and reduces risks like asymmetry or nerve damage. Always verify credentials and review before-and-after galleries to gauge a surgeon’s skill.

2. Procedure Type and Complexity

• Mini Facelift: Targets mild sagging around the cheeks and jawline with smaller incisions. Ideal for younger patients, costing $15,000–$25,000.
• Standard Facelift: Addresses moderate aging in the mid-face, jawline, and neck. Prices range from $20,000–$35,000.
• Advanced Techniques:
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Repositions deeper muscles and tissues for longer-lasting results ($35,000–$50,000).
  • SMAS Facelift: Tightens the superficial muscular layer ($30,000–$45,000).
  • Composite Facelift: Combines fat grafting and muscle repositioning for a fuller, youthful look ($40,000–$70,000+).

More complex techniques require longer operating times and specialised skills, increasing costs.

3. Clinic Location and Facility Fees

Clinics in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane often charge 15–25% more due to higher operational costs (e.g., rent, staff salaries). A standard facelift in Sydney might cost $25,000–$40,000, while regional areas may offer lower prices (e.g., $18,000–$30,000). However, regional clinics may have fewer specialists or require travel for follow-ups. Hospital or surgical facility fees add $3,500–$10,500, depending on the venue’s accreditation and amenities.

4. Additional Costs and Combined Procedures

• Anaesthesia Fees: Ranges from $2,000–$6,500, depending on the anaesthetist’s experience and procedure length.
• Combined Procedures: Adding a neck lift, brow lift, or eyelid surgery can increase costs by $5,000–$15,000.
• Post-Op Care: Follow-up visits, scar treatments, or lymphatic massages may cost $500–$2,000.

For example, a facelift with neck lift and fat grafting could total $45,000–$70,000+. Always request a detailed quote upfront.

Factors That Influence the Cost of a Face Lift in Australia

Surgeon’s Expertise and Qualifications

The experience and reputation of your surgeon significantly impact facelift costs. FRACS-certified plastic surgeons (Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) with advanced training in facial rejuvenation typically charge higher fees, reflecting their expertise in minimising risks and delivering natural results. 

For example, a leading Sydney surgeon may charge $27,500–$40,000 for a standard facelift, while less experienced providers might offer lower prices (starting around $12,000). Always verify credentials and review before-and-after galleries to ensure quality outcomes.

Type of Facelift Procedure

Costs vary based on the technique’s complexity and scope. A mini facelift (e.g., short scar or MACS lift), ideal for mild sagging, ranges from $12,900–$25,000. A full facelift with neck lift, addressing moderate aging, averages $17,900–$35,000. 

Advanced methods like the deep plane facelift or vertical restore facelift (combining brow, eyelid, and neck adjustments) cost $32,000–$70,000+. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach during your consultation.

Clinic Location

Clinics in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne often charge 15–25% more due to higher facility and staffing costs. For instance, a standard facelift in Sydney ranges $20,000–$40,000, while regional areas may offer lower rates. However, prioritise surgeon expertise over location to avoid compromising safety or results.

Additional Fees

Facelift costs include surgeon fees, hospital/theatre fees ($3,500–$10,500), and anaesthesia fees ($2,000–$6,500). Post-op care, such as follow-up visits, medications, or scar treatments, may add $500–$2,000. Always request a detailed quote upfront to avoid hidden expenses.

Combined Procedures

Combining a facelift with other treatments (e.g., neck lift, eyelid surgery, or laser resurfacing) increases costs. For example, a full facelift with a neck lift and fat grafting can total $40,000–$70,000+. While this enhances overall results, discuss your budget and goals with your surgeon to prioritise procedures.

Technology and Techniques

Advanced methods like ICLED® light-guided sutures (used in MyEllevate®) or laser-assisted techniques may raise costs but offer benefits like shorter recovery and minimal scarring. Ensure your surgeon uses accredited facilities and modern equipment for optimal safety.

Investing in an FRACS-certified surgeon ensures natural, long-lasting results tailored to your needs. Avoid “budget” options, as low-cost procedures often involve inexperienced providers or outdated methods. Always prioritise qualifications and transparency when planning your facelift journey.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

• Consultation Fees: Many clinics charge $100–$500 for initial consultations, though some deduct this fee if you proceed with surgery. Always ask if the cost applies to your final quote.
• Revision Surgeries: While rare with skilled surgeons, revisions for asymmetry or complications may cost 40–70% of the original procedure if not included. Choose a FRACS-certified surgeon to minimise risks—many offer free revisions within 12 months.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Post-op visits for stitch removal, wound checks, or scar management can cost $100–$300 per session if not included. Confirm whether your quote covers these.
• Medications & Recovery Aids: Prescription painkillers, antibiotics, or compression garments may add $200–$800. Some clinics bundle these, while others charge separately.
• Travel & Accommodation: For patients outside major cities, travel, parking, or overnight stays near clinics can add $500–$2,000+, depending on location.
• Payment Plan Fees: Financing options may include interest rates (e.g., 8–15% APR) or administration fees, increasing long-term costs.

Request a detailed written quote listing all fees, including anaesthesia, facility costs, and aftercare. Ask:

• “Is post-op care included?”
• “Do you offer free revisions?”
• “Are medications or garments extra?”

Choosing a transparent, certified surgeon ensures no surprises. Note: Medicare does not cover cosmetic facelifts.

Benefits of Investing in a Quality Face Lift

Reduced Risks and Enhanced Safety

Choosing a FRACS-certified plastic surgeon significantly lowers risks like infection, nerve damage, or asymmetry. Skilled surgeons follow strict safety protocols in accredited facilities, with complication rates under 2%. 

Experienced professionals use advanced techniques, such as high SMAS or deep plane facelifts, which preserve blood flow to promote safer healing and reduce scarring. For example, studies show patients treated by qualified surgeons report 80% fewer complications compared to non-specialists.

Natural, Age-Appropriate Results

A quality facelift focuses on repositioning deeper tissues (muscles, fat pads) rather than just tightening skin. Techniques like the deep plane facelift address structural aging, restoring cheekbones, jawlines, and neck contours without a “pulled” look. 

Surgeons like Dr. Kevin Ho tailor each procedure to your anatomy, ensuring subtle enhancements that align with your natural features. Patients consistently describe outcomes as “refreshed, not fake” (RealSelf Reviews).

Long-Lasting Satisfaction

Investing in advanced methods delivers results that last 10–15 years, far exceeding temporary fixes like fillers. For example, a high SMAS facelift repositions sagging tissues at a deeper level, resisting aging effects longer than surface-level treatments. 

A 2023 study found patients under 50 maintained natural results 12+ years post-surgery (NCBI, 2024). Combined with healthy habits (sunscreen, no smoking), outcomes endure even longer.

Comprehensive Correction

A quality facelift addresses multiple signs of aging in one procedure: smoothing deep wrinkles, eliminating jowls, and tightening neck muscles. Surgeons may combine it with neck lifts or fat grafting for balanced, full-face rejuvenation. For instance, some patients report looking 12 years younger post-procedure, with improvements in jawline definition and skin texture.

Personalised Care and Expertise

Top surgeons offer customised plans, using 3D imaging to preview results and adjusting techniques (e.g., limited incision vs. full facelift) to match your goals. Post-op care, including scar management and follow-ups, ensures optimal healing. Many clinics provide 24/7 support, reducing recovery stress and enhancing satisfaction.

While budget options exist, a skilled surgeon’s precision and modern techniques offer unmatched safety, natural aesthetics, and longevity. Always verify credentials and prioritise expertise over cost for life-changing results.

Why Choose Dr. Kevin Ho for Your Facelift?

Dr. Kevin Ho, a FRACS-certified plastic surgeon with over 16 years of expertise, is renowned for delivering natural, long-lasting facelift results that enhance your unique features—never appearing “overdone.” Specialising in advanced techniques like SMAS and deep plane facelifts, he addresses deeper tissues for subtle, rejuvenated outcomes tailored to your anatomy.

Based at Prince of Wales Private Hospital in Sydney, Dr. Ho prioritises safety and precision, adhering to the highest surgical standards. His patient-centered approach includes transparent, all-inclusive pricing (covering surgeon fees, anaesthesia, and post-op care) and personalised consultations to align with your goals.

Recognised for teaching and charitable work (e.g., Interplast reconstructive missions), Dr. Ho is trusted by celebrities, doctors, and families alike. With 95% patient satisfaction (RealSelf Reviews) and accolades for ethical practice, he combines cutting-edge methods with compassionate care.

Start Your Journey to a Confident, Youthful Look

Understanding facelift costs helps you make informed decisions. Dr. Kevin Ho, a FRACS-certified plastic surgeon, offers transparent, all-inclusive quotes tailored to your needs, covering surgeon fees, anaesthesia, and facility costs. With 16+ years’ expertise in advanced techniques like SMAS and deep plane facelifts, he delivers natural, long-lasting results that align with your goals.

Take the next step: book a consultation for personalised guidance and a detailed cost breakdown. Dr. Ho’s patient-centred care ensures clarity, safety, and outcomes that refresh your look without appearing overdone.

Schedule Your Consultation Now

Trust Sydney’s trusted specialist for a confident, natural transformation.

FAQs About Face Lift Costs 

Are face lift costs covered by insurance? 

Facelifts are considered cosmetic procedures and aren’t covered by Medicare. Limited coverage might apply if the surgery is for medical reasons, such as after an injury. Check with your private health insurer for possible fee assistance. 

How can I finance my face lift surgery? 

Many clinics, including Dr Kevin Ho’s, offer financing plans or partnerships with third-party providers to break costs into affordable monthly payments. 

Is there a consultation fee? 

Yes, most consultations require a fee, commonly between $100 and $500. Confirm with your chosen clinic if this fee is deductible from your procedure cost.