Plastic surgeon John B. Harris, MD, MBA, FACS, offers facial plastic surgery under local anesthesia in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Dr. Harris has enjoyed performing facial rejuvenation surgery throughout his thirty-five year career beginning at the Mayo Clinic and now in his private practice in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. He is renowned for his innovative facelift surgery techniques, having lectured and instructed surgeons worldwide. His patients are gratified with natural appearing facelift rejuvenation which he accomplishes under local anesthesia.  

Dr. Harris creates an individually customized plan for each of his patients that addresses the many elements of facial aging. His patients are pleased to find that they look like their former self, not a different person.

Because he believes that any elective cosmetic procedure must carry very low risk, facial cosmetic procedures are performed under local anesthesia in his office. He believes this provides his patients with the safest and most efficient care.

“How long will my procedure take to perform?” 

• Lower facelift surgery can be performed in 1½ hours from start to finish.
• A full facelift can be performed in 2-2½ hours from start to finish.
• Temporal lift and Eyelid surgery can each be accomplished in under an hour.

“What if I am an anxious patient?”

Some patients may be apprehensive about an operative procedure. Most of Dr. Harris’s patients say, “the operation was easier than I thought it would be.” However, for those patients who wish additional relaxation, an anxiolytic medication such as Valium can be taken prior to surgery. 

“Will I need a ride home from surgery?”

Patients must have a responsible party assist with transportation to and from the office on the day of surgery.

“How long will my recovery be?”

Patients must also have someone drive them to their first post-operative appointment the day following surgery. Light exercise is allowed beginning one week following surgery. Activities such as tennis or golf may be undertaken three weeks following surgery. Most patients will be able to drive an automobile in 4-5 days. The suture removal process begins in 5 days, with most sutures removed within 10 days following surgery.  

“How many post-op visits will be necessary?”

Dr. Harris likes to see his post-op patients soon and often. He will see his patients whenever they wish. Out-of-town patients typically will return 2-3 times after surgery.