If you have noticed the effects of time taking a toll on the appearance of your face, you may be considering having a facelift. Though not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure — and younger patients may want to consider less invasive fixes — for many people a facelift can work wonders. Here are the top 10 reasons to have a facelift.

1) Loss of definition in the neck and/or chin. A person may lose definition in the neck and/or chin as part of the natural aging process. Related issues such as excess fat and loose skin in the neck area can be addressed through a facelift.

2) Loss of muscle elasticity and tone. Loss of muscle elasticity and tone is a natural part of the aging process. Unfortunately, this leads to wrinkles and sagging skin. In addition, it can adversely affect the contours of the face and result in an older appearance. A facelift can tighten the skin to restore your former appearance and make you look younger.

3) Jowls and deep creases around the nose and mouth. Jowls (droopy cheek skin) and deep creases in the area around the mouth can also be treated with a facelift. In many cases, these problems stem from excess loose skin that occurs as a result of diminished collagen and elasticity. A facelift can remove the excess skin to create a more tightened look.

4) Deep wrinkles. Less invasive procedures can be used to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, but only a facelift can address deep wrinkles. In many cases, deep wrinkles are caused by excess skin or a loosening of the facial muscles that occurs with aging. A facelift can eliminate these problems to reduce the appearance of the wrinkles.

5) You look “tired.” When the main issue is a slight loss of skin elasticity and muscle tone as well as a tired appearance, the best solution may be a mini-facelift. A mini facelift lifts and tightens the skin but does not address the muscles or neck. It is often the best approach for younger patients or those with minimal signs of aging.

6) Facelifts last longer than the alternatives. Facelift results can last a decade or more. The duration of the results depends on individual anatomy and circumstances as well as the type of facelift (i.e., mini facelift, mid-facelift, full facelift) performed.

7) For “maintenance” purposes. Younger patients that have minimal signs of aging achieve superior outcomes and are more satisfied with their result after 10 years, according to at least one study. Though many patients under 50 are better candidates for less invasive procedures, some candidates in this age group may actually achieve better long-term results by having a facelift.

8) As part of overall self-improvement. Getting a facelift is often just one manifestation of a person’s desire to better themselves. A facelift can have significant mental benefits. Many patients who seek a facelift also begin to exercise more, quit smoking, lose weight, follow a better diet, and/or choose to have cosmetic dentistry or laser eye surgery in addition to their facelift.

9) To complement another procedure. A facelift is often combined with other facial plastic procedures — most notably eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) — for a more comprehensive result. However, patients should know that combining a facelift with certain procedures such as rhinoplasty may lead to increased discomfort and most likely a longer recovery time. Your facial plastic surgeon will attempt to devise a surgical plan that takes into account comfort and safety. Speak to your surgeon to learn more about combination treatments.

10) You’re doing it for the right reasons! While a facelift can improve your appearance and have some effect on self-confidence, it is very important that you already feel good about who you are. A facelift will not completely transform your life. And while it may help you feel more youthful and confident when seeking a job, this should not be your primary motivation for having a facelift. It is also important that both you and your surgeon agree that there is a problem area to be addressed. If your surgeon has trouble understanding why you want to have a facelift, this may mean that you are overly concerned with your appearance and may not be the best candidate for a facelift.