The PreservaLift™

The PreservaLift™ at Raggio MD: A preservation extended release deep-plane facelift and structural necklift approach that “preserves” the skin (green) by entering the deep plane at a point (yellow) more lateral to the traditional deep-plane incision route (blue). Key features include carefully placed incisions (red), “extended” deep-plane dissection below the jawline (yellow), a release of key facial ligaments (black X),  targeted deep structural neck work (red circle), and a vertical vector of lift (purple arrow) for natural, long-lasting rejuvenation.

Autologous fat grafting is also a key component of this technique, though not pictured here.

At the heart of the PreservaLift™ lies an uncompromising dedication to precision and aesthetics. Every incision is strategically and artfully placed—tucked seamlessly within the natural curves of the ear and hairline—to remain virtually imperceptible, even up close. This thoughtful approach is paired with Dr. Raggio’s signature gentle dissection and preservation technique, designed to maintain the integrity of your facial anatomy while delivering refined, natural-looking results. The outcome? A rejuvenated appearance that looks effortlessly elegant—never overdone.

PreservaLift™ Precise Incision Design: RED outlines the meticulously planned incision route, expertly concealed within natural creases and along the hairline for optimal scar camouflage.

A defining feature of the PreservaLift™ is its Vertical Vector Tissue Suspension—a sophisticated technique engineered to counteract gravitational descent while preserving the natural harmony of the face. Illustrated in PURPLE, the proprietary 70-degree vertical lift repositions deep facial structures upward and inward, rather than pulling laterally or outward. This anatomical vector supports long-lasting rejuvenation by restoring youthful facial balance without compromising expression, softness, or identity. The result is a refined lift that appears entirely natural—never tight, pulled, or overdone.

PreservaLift™ Vertical Vector Tissue Suspension: PURPLE illustrates the PreservaLift’s™70-degree vertical lift designed to counteract gravitational descent while preserving natural expression and youthful facial balance.

True facial rejuvenation extends seamlessly into the neck. The PreservaLift™ incorporates a “structural neck lift” that comprehensively addresses all the layers contributing to neck aging. This includes meticulous management of loose skin, removal of excess superficial fat, tightening of the lax platysma muscle, reduction of hypertrophic deep neck fat, refinement of bulky digastric muscles, and precise repositioning of ptotic submandibular salivary glands when indicated. This multi-layered approach ensures a smooth, defined, and youthful contour of the neck that beautifully complements the rejuvenated face for individuals seeking the best neck lift results in Alabama.

PreservaLift™ Deep Structural Necklift: RED highlights the comprehensive structural necklift approach, targeting skin, fat, muscles, and glands for refined, long-lasting neck rejuvenation.

A distinctive and vital element of the PreservaLift™ is the integration of autologous stem cell-rich fat grafting and nanofat. This advanced technique utilizes your own purified fat, enriched with potent stem cells, to restore lost volume in key facial areas, providing a natural and long-lasting fullness. Furthermore, the strategic application of nanofat—a refined form of your own fat—delivers a powerful boost to skin health and vitality. Rich in growth factors, nanofat improves skin texture, tone, and elasticity, contributing to a radiant and youthful complexion that harmonizes beautifully with the structural lift achieved. This cellular enhancement not only refines contours but also promotes a more vibrant and naturally rejuvenated appearance from within.

PreservaLift™ Structural Fat Grafting and Nanofat:

Strategic placement of autologous stem cell-rich structural fat and nanofat restores volume, improves skin quality, and enhances overall facial rejuvenation.

At Raggio MD, every element of the PreservaLift™ is crafted to optimize your natural beauty, enhance your well-being, and deliver results that feel as effortless as they look.

PreservaLift™ Recovery: Exceptional early 3 week post-operative results made possible by our advanced anesthesia and recovery protocols. Minimal swelling, natural contour—just weeks after PreservaLift™(submitted from out-of-town patient)

The PreservaLift™ is more than a facelift—it’s a meticulously designed experience that prioritizes artistry, safety, and enhanced comfort from start to finish. Performed in our AAAASF-accredited surgical suite in downtown Homewood, the procedure is conducted under deep intravenous sedation with local anesthesia, a sophisticated alternative to general anesthesia that minimizes nausea, eliminates the need for a breathing tube, and reduces bleeding, bruising, and postoperative discomfort.

To further optimize your experience, Dr. Raggio administers long-acting nerve blocks for extended relief and applies platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to the tissue layers, helping to naturally seal vessels and accelerate healing. This advanced technique is part of our ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocol, designed to support a smoother, more comfortable recovery with fewer side effects and a shorter downtime.

Following surgery, patients may choose to undergo in-office hyperbaric oxygen therapy using our state-of-the-art hard chamber (up to 2.0 ATA)—a powerful addition that promotes oxygen-rich healing, reduces swelling, and enhances tissue regeneration.

Recovery is gentle and gradual. While some swelling and bruising are to be expected initially, your transformation unfolds beautifully over the weeks that follow. Our team will provide personalized aftercare guidance and schedule thoughtful follow-ups to ensure your comfort and confidence every step of the way.