Face Lift

A facelift is a surgical procedure that repositions sagging facial structures caused by age, environmental factors, and gravity. Facial structures affected by aging and gravity include the cheeks in the midface, nasolabial folds, pre-jowl folds, and the corners of the mouth. The neck-chin angle also disappears due to sagging, creating a loose, gathered appearance when viewed from the side.

Does a facelift correct sagging of the eyebrows and forehead?
During a facelift, the eyebrows are released and repositioned to their proper place through an incision made within the scalp. However, in my technique, the forehead is not lifted using a full incision through the scalp. Instead, I recommend fat injections around the eyebrows and across the forehead.

At what age should you get a facelift?
If you genetically have significantly sagging skin and pronounced hollows under the eyes, you can consider a facelift anytime after your 30s.

Where are the incisions made in a facelift, and are they visible?
In a facelift, the incision starts at the hairline near the sideburns or within the hairline, proceeds in front of the ear toward the earlobe, and extends behind the ear into the hairline if necessary to address excess neck skin. In women, when hair is tied in a ponytail, the incision remains concealed at the hairline behind the ear. In men, there may be a shift in the beard line in front of the ear, requiring laser hair removal in this area. Well-planned facelift scars typically become barely noticeable after one year.

Is only excess skin removed during a facelift?
A facelift is a sophisticated procedure that should be performed by an experienced surgeon with a deep understanding of facial anatomy. In addition to removing excess sagging skin, the underlying SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is repositioned and sutured. The longevity of a facelift largely depends on the suspension of the SMAS layer.

Can a neck lift be performed alongside a facelift?
If there is sagging in the neck skin and tissues, it should definitely be done simultaneously. Otherwise, the rejuvenation will appear incomplete. Neck lift surgery includes a small 4 cm incision under the chin to remove excess fat tissue and sagging salivary glands beneath the platysma muscle. The platysma muscle is then tightened to create a sharp neck-chin angle, achieving a youthful neck appearance.

Is fat injection done during a facelift?
Fat injection is essential during a facelift. As the face ages, fat tissue in the facial compartments diminishes, and this loss should be restored with fat injections during the same procedure.

What should you consider before a facelift?
Stopping smoking is absolutely crucial! I do not recommend this surgery for patients who have not quit smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure. If you have hypertension, you must take your medications regularly and ensure your blood pressure is stable through check-ups. Stop consuming green tea, parsley juice, arugula, and other leafy greens, as well as supplements like Q10 and fish oil, at least 10 days before the surgery.

How long should you take off work after a facelift?
You will notice the beautiful results and tightness of the facelift the very next day. Swelling, bruising, and puffiness on the face are normal and will subside in about 10 days. Full resolution of swelling and the complete contouring of the face will take at least three months. One week after the procedure, all stitches will be removed, allowing you to wear makeup and sunscreen and return to work.

Should you continue with botulinum toxin treatments after a facelift?
Yes, you should definitely continue botulinum toxin treatments for crow's feet and forehead wrinkles.