Because plastic surgery doesn't totally freeze the aging process, no procedure can boast results that last forever. Eventually, the natural aging process will continue - but cosmetic procedures, and especially facelift surgery, can still keep you looking younger than your peers. Closely following Dr. Cutolo's instructions after surgery will go a long way toward maintaining your results. Even after you've fully healed, practicing good sun protection habits can maintain the structure and integrity of your skin, preventing additional damage. This means using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day and reapplying as needed. If you're a smoker, you should quit several weeks before surgery to prevent complications related to bleeding and healing. If you remain a nonsmoker after surgery, you'll avoid the development of additional wrinkles around your mouth and keep your skin taut and healthy. As the years pass, many patients also use nonsurgical treatments to maintain their results.