Facelift surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at reducing the effects of sagging and wrinkles, which are among the most prominent signs of aging on the face. Over time, the skin loses its elasticity, facial contours become less defined, and a person may appear more tired or older than they actually are. This procedure tightens the facial skin and reshapes loosened tissues. Excess skin is removed to give the face a younger and more dynamic appearance. The surgical techniques are planned according to the individual's facial anatomy, with the goal of achieving a refreshed look without compromising naturalness.
A facelift, medically known as “rhytidectomy,” is an aesthetic surgical procedure aimed at reducing the effects of aging on the skin. With the aging process, the skin loses its elasticity, sags downward due to the effects of gravity, and lines on the face become more prominent. This situation can give a person a tired, sad, or older-than-they-are appearance. Particularly, the loss of jawline definition, deepening of the nasolabial folds, and downward movement of the cheek tissues can create a pronounced sense of aging in one’s facial expression. Facelift surgery is performed to tighten facial sagging, remove excess skin, and reshape the underlying tissues to achieve a younger, more dynamic, and natural look.
Over time, the tired appearance caused by aging can be replaced with a brighter and more energetic look after the operation. Facelift surgery is preferred not only to eliminate aesthetic concerns but also to increase a person’s self-confidence and help them feel more comfortable in their social life.
Today, facelift surgeries are performed with techniques that offer more natural results and have shorter recovery times. The surgical procedure, planned by considering the skin structure and facial proportions, redefines the facial contours without artificiality. Professionally performed facelifts aim to create a rejuvenating and balanced effect while preserving the natural facial features.
A facelift surgery, which takes approximately 2 to 4 hours, is generally performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the operation may vary depending on the method to be used, the patient’s age, skin structure, and the degree of facial sagging. In some cases, the operation time may be extended due to additional procedures performed simultaneously, such as neck lift or fat transfer. During the surgical procedure, incisions are made along the hairline, in front of the ears, or behind the ears to access the underlying tissues. Incisions are planned to be hidden as much as possible within natural facial lines, and over time, the visibility of the scars diminishes.
The surgeon tightens the loosened muscle tissues, removes excess skin, and repositions the underlying tissues upwards. Supporting the deep tissue layers allows both the skin and the overall facial contour to be reshaped. In this way, facial sagging is corrected and a natural tightness is achieved. If necessary, the neck area is also treated, resulting in a significant improvement in the appearance of the area under the chin and jowls. This combination is especially effective in eliminating signs of aging in the lower face area. Post-operative scars fade over time, and the face attains a rejuvenated appearance without becoming expressionless. In facelift surgeries, maintaining the naturalness of the expression is just as important as the aesthetic success of the procedure.
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Facelift aesthetics can be performed using different techniques depending on the individual’s signs of aging, skin structure, and aesthetic expectations. Since each method targets different layers and provides different results, the technique to be applied is determined by the surgeon based on the patient.
Classic subcutaneous facelift is a traditional technique that focuses on the superficial layers of the skin. Excess skin is removed, facial tissues are tightened, and reshaped. This method, which has been safely used for many years in facial rejuvenation, is preferred in cases of widespread deformation.
Subcutaneous facelift and mass plication are used more for correcting superficial sagging. In this technique, while the subcutaneous tissue layers are tightened, natural facial contours are preserved. SMAS plication allows for a more permanent result by restructuring the supporting tissues.
Mini facelift is applied in cases requiring limited intervention and is suitable for mild deformations. With a shorter recovery time, this method is ideal for individuals in the younger age group. It gives effective results, especially in patients with loosening in the lower face area.
Deep plane composite facelift involves intervening in both the muscle and subcutaneous connective tissues of the face. This technique is preferred in older individuals and those with deep wrinkles.
High SMAS flap facelift aims to reshape the facial support system by lifting it from the deep tissues. It provides long-term permanence and is more resistant to aging effects. Each technique is planned according to the anatomical structure and needs of the face.
Facelift surgery is applied to individuals who experience sagging, wrinkles, and volume loss in the facial features. Although the effects of aging vary from person to person, those with lost skin elasticity and diminished facial contour definition may benefit from this procedure. Individuals whose general health does not pose a barrier to surgery, who can limit smoking, and who will comply with the recovery process are considered ideal candidates. However, suitability for facelift surgery is determined specifically for each individual after a detailed evaluation of facial structure, skin quality, and expectations.
Facelift surgery aims to provide a younger, more dynamic, and refreshed appearance without changing the person’s facial expression. The success rate of the surgery is directly related to accurate patient selection and surgical planning. Our experienced and expert aesthetic surgeons meticulously plan the process and offer personalized solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. In this way, it becomes possible to achieve natural and aesthetically satisfying results.
The recovery process after surgery can vary depending on the individual’s general health, the technique used, and the skin structure. In the first few days, swelling, bruising, and mild pain may be seen on the face. This is completely normal and can be managed with the medications and care protocols recommended by the surgeon. Keeping the head elevated and applying cold compresses support the healing process.
The first week after the surgery should be planned as a rest period; heavy physical activities and facial expressions that strain the muscles should be avoided. Stitches are usually removed within 7 to 10 days. Skin tightness gradually decreases and the face regains its natural contours. Protecting from the sun, using special moisturizers, and caring for the skin with creams recommended by the doctor improves healing quality.
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