Understanding Face Lift Surgery : Procedure, Benefits, and Risks

face lift surgery procedure

If you’re considering rejuvenating your appearance and restoring a youthful look, we are here to give you all the intel! 

We will explore everything you need about face lift treatment – from understanding the procedure and its different types to evaluating the benefits and risks involved. 

What is a face lift?

A face lift procedure, also called rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to reduce the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and begins to sag, resulting in wrinkles, jowls, and a tired appearance.

Different types of face lift procedure are available depending on your individual needs and desired outcome. The traditional or full face lift  rejuvenates the neck and the lower part of the face. It involves incisions along the hairline extending around the ears. Through these incisions, the surgeon can access deeper layers of tissue to tighten muscles and remove excess skin.

In addition to full face lifts, mini facelifts target specific areas such as the lower face or neck alone. These procedures involve smaller incisions and shorter recovery times than traditional facelifts. Being a suitable candidate for face lift surgery involves various factors such as age, overall health, realistic expectations, and emotional readiness. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon will help determine if you are indeed an ideal candidate for this transformative cosmetic procedure.

Understanding what a face lift procedure entails is crucial before deciding whether it’s right for you. In our next sections, we’ll discuss the types of face lift, its benefits and potential risks.

Types of face lift surgery

Cosmetic surgery offers various face lift procedures for different needs and preferences. Being aware of  the different options available can help you better decide the best approach for your desired results.

Traditional Face Lift: This is the most common type of face lift procedure done by making incisions around the ears. The skin is lifted, excess fat and tissue are removed, and muscles are tightened to give a youthful appearance.

Mini Face Lift: Ideal for individuals with mild sagging in specific areas of their face, this procedure focuses on targeted lifting rather than full facial rejuvenation. It requires smaller incisions and a relatively shorter recovery time than traditional face lifts.

Thread Lift: Suitable for those who require only a modest rejuvenation. Also known as a non-surgical or lunchtime facelift, this procedure involves inserting special threads into the skin through tiny incisions. These threads create tension that lifts sagging tissues without major surgery.

Endoscopic Face Lift: This technique utilizes small cameras inserted through tiny incisions to visualize and access underlying facial structures. It allows for precise sculpting of muscles and tightening of tissues, resulting in minimal scarring and faster recovery times.

Each type of face lift treatment has its own advantages, depending on your unique needs. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon will help determine the most suitable option.

The benefits of face lift treatment

Face lift surgery, or rhytidectomy, is a popular cosmetic procedure that can provide numerous benefits for individuals looking to rejuvenate their appearance. Let’s explore some of the advantages of this transformative surgery.

  • One of the key benefits of face lift procedure is its ability to tighten and lift sagging facial skin. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and begins to droop, resulting in jowls, deep wrinkles, and a tired appearance. A face lift surgery can address these concerns by tightening the muscles beneath and eliminating excess skin, giving you a more youthful and refreshed look.
  • Additionally, face lift treatment can improve the contours of your face by restoring definition to areas that may have lost volume over time. By repositioning fat deposits or utilizing dermal fillers during the procedure, your surgeon can help restore fullness to hollowed cheeks or sunken temples.
  • Another advantage of face lift procedure is its long-lasting results. While no cosmetic procedure can completely halt ageing, a well-performed face lift treatment can turn back the clock by several years. 
  • A successful face lift procedure often increases self-confidence and improves emotional well-being. Many patients report feeling happier with their appearance following the procedure – an invaluable benefit that extends beyond physical changes.

The risks of face lift surgery

Face lift surgery, like any surgical procedure, comes with certain risks and potential complications. It is essential to know these risks before deciding to undergo the procedure.

  • Infection: Face lift surgery carries a risk of infection, which is commonly treated with antibiotics but may require additional procedures in severe cases.
  • Scarring: Despite efforts to minimize scarring, some degree of scarring is inevitable, although scars typically fade over time.
  • Nerve damage: The facial nerves may be disrupted during the procedure, leading to temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in certain facial areas.
  • Hematoma and seroma: Collection of blood or fluid may occur, requiring drainage or additional procedures for resolution.
  • General anaesthesia risks: Adverse reactions to medications used during surgery or sedation-related complications are potential risks.

Discussing these risks thoroughly with the surgeon beforehand is crucial so that you clearly understand what could happen during and after your face lift procedure.

How to prepare for face lift surgery procedure

Preparing for face lift treatment is important in ensuring a successful outcome. To make the process as smooth as possible, there are several things you can do to prepare yourself physically and mentally.

  • It’s essential to have a thorough consultation with your plastic surgeon. This will involve discussing your goals, medical history, and any concerns or questions. Your surgeon will also evaluate your overall health to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.
  • In the weeks leading up to your surgery, it’s crucial to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. These include avoiding certain medications that can thin the blood or increase bleeding risk.
  • Additionally, it’s advisable to quit smoking at least two weeks before surgery and throughout the recovery period. Smoking can impair healing and increase complications.
  • Remember to dress comfortably on the day of your surgery and avoid wearing makeup or jewelry. 

By following these steps and working closely with your surgeon, you’ll be well-prepared for face lift surgery and on track toward achieving your desired results!

What happens during a face lift procedure? 

The face lift procedure typically involves the following steps:

  • anaesthesia: The patient is administered general or local anaesthesia with sedation to ensure comfort during the surgery.
  • Incisions: The surgeon creates incisions, usually hidden in the natural creases of the face, such as along the hairline and behind the ears.
  • Tissue repositioning: The underlying facial tissues and muscles are carefully repositioned and tightened to restore a more youthful appearance. Excess fat and skin is removed if necessary.
  • Skin redraping: The skin is redraped over the newly repositioned tissues, and any excess skin is trimmed.
  • Incision closure: The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures or surgical staples. In some cases, skin adhesives or tissue glue may be used.
  • Recovery: After the surgery, the patient is monitored in a recovery area for a few hours before release. Instructions for post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be provided.

Why choose Dr. Demetrius for a successful face lift procedure?

Dr. Demetrius is highly regarded in cosmetic surgery and specializes in face lift procedures. With extensive expertise of over 20 years and 1000+ surgeries, he can help determine if you are a good candidate for face lift surgery and guide you through every step. 


To book an appointment with Dr. Demetrius for a consultation regarding face lift surgery, contact our clinic today. 

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