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By Dr. Michelle Sieffert |

Episode 6: Facial Plastic Surgery at 20, 30, 40 & Beyond

Aging Gracefully Starts with Knowledge (Not Overcorrection or Over-the-Counter Miracle Cures)

Podcast episode about facial plastic surgery by each decade of adulthood

In this episode of Asking for a Friend, our experts unpack what’s actually worth doing for your face throughout each decade and how to avoid the marketing traps that may be aging you faster than time itself.

In Episode 6: Facial Plastic Surgery at 20, 30, 40 & Beyond, host Carrie Esposito is joined by Dr. Michelle Sieffert, board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation, and Dr. Marguerite Weston, MD, IFMCP, a functional medicine provider focused on whole-body wellness and skin health.

Together, they explore everything from safe surgical options and medical-grade skin care to the filtered misinformation targeting young patients online

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Answering Questions About the Procedures & Treatments You Care About

This conversation spans the full spectrum of facial rejuvenation, from surgical, non-surgical and functional medicine perspectives. Here’s a look at some of the interventions and strategies they cover:

Dr. Michelle Sieffert in Columbus, Ohio

“Sometimes we’re just looking for something small & easy to recover from. There’s no question that eyelid surgery can make a big difference. It’s quick. It can be done under local anesthesia. It brightens the face beautifully.”

— Dr. Michelle Sieffert

When Should I Start Considering Cosmetic Treatments for Aging?

There’s no “perfect age” to start, but your biology does change with each decade. In your 20s and 30s, building a solid skin health foundation with active ingredients, laser maintenance and sun protection pays off.

By your 40s and 50s, you may start considering procedures like eyelid surgery or a facelift to treat visible sagging and loss of definition. And the earlier you address structural changes? The more natural-looking your results tend to be.

A naturally beautiful facial plastic surgery patient

“Starting laser treatments in your 30s is a great move if you can swing it. It is a cost, but putting energy in your skin each year works. Some of the first proponents of lasers? They’re 60 but look like they’re 40 because they’ve been lasering their skin for years. It doesn’t just have anti-aging benefit — it also may prevent the formation of skin cancer. We know that to be true, too.”

— Dr. Michelle Sieffert

Dr. Sieffert’s Top 5 Things to Start Doing Now for Healthy Skin Later

These five methods are rooted in research. The benefits compound over time to create healthy, radiant skin long-term:

  1. Lifestyle First: Prioritize nutrition, movement and healthy habits. Reduce your alcohol intake. The long-term difference is visible, especially as you get into your 60s.

  2. Use an Exfoliant: Alpha and beta hydroxy acids help turn over dead skin and brighten your complexion.

  3. Antioxidants Matter: Topical vitamin C protects against oxidative stress and environmental damage.

  4. Retinol: One of the only ingredients clinically proven to thicken thinning skin and reduce fine lines.

  5. Regular Laser Treatments: Annual resurfacing with a credentialed provider can promote collagen, even tone and may even reduce skin cancer risk.

“Why Do I Feel Like Something is ‘Off’ After Facial Surgery?”

In some patients, there’s a real psychological shift that happens when your face doesn’t look quite like you right after surgery. This is a common (and temporary) part of the healing process. Your brain needs time to adjust to seeing new contours in the mirror, even if they’re subtle or intentional.

A patient looking at herself in the mirror after facelift surgery

“You look in the mirror and you don’t quite recognize yourself. Your brain kind of spins out. That’s normal. You just need to give yourself time before jumping to conclusions. I tell my patients to avoid standing in the mirror & inspecting things. You may have a couple weeks until you feel fully like yourself!”

— Dr. Michelle Sieffert

Face Surgery is Often More Comfortable, But Also More Noticeable

While facial procedures typically involve less physical discomfort than body surgery, they can be harder to hide. This makes timing your recovery especially important. Many patients find it tricky to fit facial surgery into their everyday lives, especially as they try to balance work schedules, social events, being a mother and simply not wanting to explain bruising.

“I could’ve had a body surgery last week & been sitting here. No one would even know. But facial surgery? That’s harder to hide. It really does require more planning around your lifestyle.”

— Carrie Esposito

Is It Ever Too Early for Retinol or Filler?

Yes. Overprescribing active ingredients or injectable treatments to younger patients can lead to premature aging, damaged skin barriers or distorted facial proportions. Instead of chasing trends, patients in their teens and early 20s should focus on prevention (like SPF, hydration and gentle exfoliation) until an aesthetic medical provider suggests a targeted intervention.

Dr. Weston discussing how old is too young for certain skin products

“They don’t need hyaluronic acid. In fact, it can be harmful & prematurely age you. But as ‘mom,’ of course I don’t know anything! I mean, they’re on social media & they see these filtered photos. They want their skin to look like that, & they can if they buy a certain product. It is setting up some major issues for our kids.”

— Dr. Marguerite Weston

Facial Plastic Surgery at 20, 30, 40 & Beyond | Asking For A Friend

About The “Asking For A Friend” Podcast

From Botox and filler to lasers, skincare and facial rejuvenation, Asking For A Friend is your go-to podcast for honest conversations about aging gracefully and authentically. Each episode features real talk, expert guidance and zero pressure to chase trends. Carrie and her crew of trusted providers are here to guide you — whether you’re new to aesthetics or navigating your next chapter.

No question is off the table! Because chances are, if you’re wondering about it, so is someone else.

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