Face Lift (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift (rhytidectomy) is a comprehensive plastic surgery procedure that surgically corrects skin sagging, deep folds, and neck laxity in the mid and lower face, providing a 10-15 years younger, natural, and refreshed appearance.

What Is a Facelift?

Due to aging, sun damage, weight fluctuations, and the effects of gravity, deep nasolabial folds, cheek sagging, jowl formation, and neck laxity develop on the face. A facelift is a procedure that surgically tightens and secures the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), removes excess skin, and re-drapes facial tissue in a natural direction.

Thanks to modern SMAS facelift techniques, the "tight" or "artificial" appearance of the past has been replaced by extremely natural results that preserve expression. The procedure typically takes 3-5 hours, and a one-night hospital stay is recommended.

Who Is a Candidate?

• Those experiencing significant sagging in the cheek and jowl area
• Those with deep nasolabial folds and marionette lines
• Those who have lost definition in the jawline-neck contour
• Those who have not achieved adequate results with Botox, fillers, and similar methods
• Healthy individuals aged 45-70 who are suitable for surgery
• Those with realistic expectations who are non-smokers or willing to quit

Facelift Techniques

SMAS Facelift (Deep Plane)

This technique tightens and secures the SMAS layer beneath the skin, offering the most lasting and natural results. Since skin tension is minimized, there is no risk of an artificial appearance.

Deep Plane Facelift

This advanced technique intervenes in tissue layers deeper than the SMAS; it provides more comprehensive rejuvenation in severe sagging cases and in the midface area.

SMAS + Neck Lift Combination

Simultaneous neck muscle-skin tightening with the facelift; offers holistic rejuvenation of the lower face and neck area. It is the most commonly preferred combination.

Mini Facelift

A minimally invasive option with a smaller incision and shorter recovery time for early-stage sagging. (For details, see Mini Facelift)

Procedure Steps

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

Facial anatomy, skin quality, SMAS integrity, and patient goals are assessed; a personalized surgical plan is created.

2. Anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered. A full facelift takes 3-5 hours.

3. Incision and SMAS Intervention

The skin is lifted through incisions extending from the hairline and ear creases; the SMAS layer is tightened and secured in its new position.

4. Skin Draping and Closure

Excess skin is removed; the skin is repositioned in its natural direction to prevent a tight appearance. Incisions are closed with fine sutures.

Advantages of a Facelift

• Comprehensive rejuvenation: The mid and lower face along with the neck are corrected together
• Lasting results: Effective for 10-15 years; does not require annual repeat like fillers and Botox
• Natural appearance: The SMAS technique preserves facial expression and mobility
• Hidden scars: Within the hair and ear creases, invisible from the outside
• Multiple benefits: Sagging, folds, neck, and jowls are corrected in a single session

Recovery Process

• Days 1-3: Swelling, bruising, and tightness; managed with pain medication
• Days 7-10: Sutures are removed; major swelling has resolved
• Weeks 2-3: Light makeup and return to daily life
• 1 month: Stiffness and numbness decrease
• 3-6 months: Final result becomes clear; scars fade

Before and After Surgery

Before

• Blood thinners and aspirin should be discontinued 10 days before
• Smoking should be stopped for at least 3 weeks; it directly affects wound healing
• Alcohol should be discontinued 1 week before

After

• Sleeping with the head elevated reduces swelling
• Intense exercise and bending forward should be avoided for the first 2 weeks
• Hair dyeing should wait 6 weeks
• Sun protection should be maintained for 1 month; SPF 50+ should be used

Facelift at Estetistanbul

At Estetistanbul Medical Center, facelift operations are performed by our team of plastic surgeons experienced in SMAS and deep plane techniques. In our comprehensive facial rejuvenation programs, which can be planned in combination with brow lift, eyelid surgery, and neck lift, natural, expression-preserving, and long-lasting results are aimed for every patient.