Facelift
FACELIFT
Rhytidectomy
A facelift is an aesthetic surgical operation that aims to reduce the sagging and deep lines that appear on the face and neck with age. Over time, facial tissues descend under the effect of gravity, the skin loses its elasticity and fat pads shift. In a facelift, these tissues are lifted back up to their natural position.
At Op. Dr. Mert Seçer’s clinic, the goal is not a tight or artificial expression but a rested, natural-looking result that preserves the person’s own facial features. The operation is planned during the examination according to the patient’s facial structure, skin quality and expectations.
WHAT DOES IT CORRECT?
Who Is It Suitable For?
A facelift mainly targets signs of ageing in the middle and lower face.
Problems It Addresses
- Sagging in the midface
- Deep lines running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Sagging along the jawline
- Laxity under the chin and on the neck
- Descended cheek fat pads
Who Is It Suitable For?
- People with visible sagging of the face and neck
- People whose general health is suitable for surgery
- Non-smokers or people who can stop smoking for a period before and after surgery
- People with realistic expectations of the operation
SMAS AND DEEP PLANE
The Basis of a Lasting Result
In older techniques only the skin was pulled; this could lead to both short-lived results and a tight, artificial facial expression. Today, a facelift also addresses the muscle and connective tissue layer beneath the skin (SMAS).
In SMAS and deep plane techniques, sagging tissues are lifted and fixed together with this supporting layer. Because the load is carried by the underlying support layer rather than the skin, the result looks more natural and lasts longer. The skin is closed without tension, with only the excess removed.
The incisions are usually planned starting in front of the ear and extending behind the ear into the hairline, within natural creases, so that the scar fades over time.
MINI FACELIFT
For Limited Sagging
A mini facelift is a method with a shorter incision, usually preferred for younger patients whose sagging is less pronounced. It is particularly suitable for early sagging along the jawline and mild drooping of the cheeks.
Because it is a more limited procedure, recovery is generally shorter. However, in patients with significant laxity of the neck or advanced sagging, a full facelift may be the more suitable option. Which method is right for you is determined during the examination.
FAT INJECTION
Restoring Lost Volume
With age, the face does not only sag but also loses volume; the cheeks, temples and under-eye area may start to look hollow. In these patients, fat injection using the patient’s own fat can be added to the facelift.
Fat harvested from the abdomen or thighs is processed and injected into areas of volume loss. In this way, the face is both lifted and regains its fullness. Part of the injected fat may be absorbed by the body over time.
THE RIGHT TIME
When Should It Be Done?
There is no specific age limit for a facelift; the degree of sagging and the quality of the skin matter more than age. Signs of ageing progress at different rates in different people.
In operations performed before sagging becomes too advanced, tissue quality is better, so more natural results are usually achieved, and in some patients it may be possible to proceed with more limited methods.
AFTER SURGERY
Recovery Process
Immediately after surgery, the head and face are wrapped loosely with a bandage to protect the area and reduce swelling. The anaesthesia method, duration of the operation and length of hospital stay are planned individually during the examination.
- Swelling, bruising, numbness and a feeling of tightness in the first weeks are expected.
- Detailed care instructions and necessary medication are provided for this period.
- Most patients can return to work within 10 days to a few weeks.
RISKS
What You Should Know
As with any surgical procedure, a facelift carries certain risks. Swelling, bruising and temporary numbness are expected. Other possible risks include bleeding and blood collection (haematoma), infection, visible scarring, delayed wound healing, weakness of the facial nerves (usually temporary) and asymmetry. Smoking increases the risks related to wound healing. Risks are discussed in detail during the examination, taking into account the patient’s health.
For patients whose sagging is still at an early stage and who do not want surgery, non-surgical aesthetic procedures may also be considered.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does facelift surgery take?
The duration and anaesthesia method vary depending on the technique used and whether additional procedures such as fat injection are performed; they are clarified during the examination.
When can I return to work after a facelift?
Most patients can return to work within 10 days to a few weeks.
Does a facelift leave scars?
The incisions are planned around the ear and in the hairline, within natural creases. The scar fades over time and is usually not noticeable.
Does a facelift change my facial expression?
The aim is to preserve your own expression. Because the supporting layer beneath the skin (SMAS) is lifted, not just the skin, a tight or artificial look is avoided.
What is the difference between a mini facelift and a full facelift?
A mini facelift uses a shorter incision and is suitable for early sagging. If there is significant neck laxity or advanced sagging, a full facelift is preferred.
How long do the results of a facelift last?
A facelift does not stop ageing, but it takes the face to a younger starting point. Even as ageing continues, the face looks younger for many years than it would have without surgery.
What is the best age for a facelift?
There is no specific age limit. The degree of sagging and skin quality matter more than age.
This content was prepared by Op. Dr. Mert Seçer.
Last updated: 22 October 2026
