Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)

What is a face lift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure which aims to produce a younger looking face and neck. During a face lift procedure, excess skin is removed and the neck, chin and cheek areas tightened up. At the same time, the overall effect is to reduce the signs of aging. Surgeons will remove excess skin on the face, cheeks and neck. Wrinkles are smoothed out to hide the effects of ageing.

What facelift surgery options are there?

There are a number of different methods and techniques used by expert cosmetic and plastic surgeons when performing face lift surgery. Each cosmetic surgery company may offer different techniques. Some of the most popular methods include:

• The Traditional Full Face lift
• The combined Full Face and Neck Lift
• The Mini Facelift

What is the difference between a Traditional Face Lift and a Mini Facelift?

The traditional Full Face Lift results in a scar which follows the hairline. The incision starts at the temple, goes around the curve behind the ears, underneath and back up to the next ear, curves around that one and returns into the hair. If your jaw line is also sagging then the incision may go under the chin to correct this issue. After this incision is completed, the skin is lifted, pulled back and any excess skin is trimmed away.

A mini facelift, however, typically results in minimal (or even no) scarring and can be used to correct other blemishes besides ageing. There are various types of mini face lift techniques available such as the MACS (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) facelift. You can read more about these on our mini facelifts page.

Am I suitable for a face lift?

Both men and women can undergo the procedure. There is no minimum age for having face lift surgery, but most patients are typically 40-70, though people above or below this age can be suitable candidates as well. The mini face lift is particularly suited to those aged 40-55.

Facelifts can be performed both for cosmetic/aesthetic purposes and sometimes medical/reconstructive purposes. You will need to be in good health, at your optimum BMI (as with any cosmetic surgery procedure as this aids recovery and response to anaesthetic) with skin that has flexibility and retains its elasticity. This is because the skin is pulled tight once the excess has been removed. You are likely to see a better result if you have adequate amounts of loose skin on your face or neck.

What results can I expect?

The results that you notice after your face lift will depend on the type of procedure you choose (i.e. full or mini face lift) and your reasons for undergoing the procedure. The wrinkles on your face should be gone, along with the loose skin around your neck and face. Your face should now appear younger, firmer and more refreshed.

As with any cosmetic surgery procedure, it is important to have realistic expectations if you are considering a face lift. You should be aiming to improve the appearance of your face, rather than to create a ‘perfect’ new face.

Links to our facelift surgery pages:

• Traditional Facelift – Full Face and Neck Lift
• Full Face and Neck Lift video
• Mini Facelift
• MACS mini facelift
• MACS mini facelift video

Where can I have the surgery?

At Aurora we have expert surgeons specialising in face lift procedures. They are located at our clinics nationwide. For more information, call one of our friendly team today on 0800 328 5743 or Book your Consultation now.