Facelift surgery is an aesthetic surgical procedure performed to reduce skin sagging, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles that cause cosmetic concerns. During the procedure, loosened skin and muscle tissues are tightened, excess skin is removed, and facial contours are reshaped. Signs of aging, particularly around the jawline, cheeks, and neck, are addressed to give the face a younger and more dynamic appearance. Since natural facial expressions are preserved, a fresher and more vibrant look is achieved. The procedure, performed using modern surgical techniques, can target specific facial areas or follow a comprehensive approach.
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed to reduce the visible effects of aging on the skin and facial contours. Over time, the skin loses its elasticity due to various factors, facial muscles become lax, and sagging occurs under the influence of gravity. Changes in areas such as the jawline, cheeks, and neck can make a person appear tired, sad, and older than they actually are. In addition, the loss of definition in facial contours, dullness of the skin, and deepening of expression lines are other aesthetic issues that can arise with age. A facelift addresses these issues by tightening loose skin and muscle tissue, removing excess skin, and redefining facial contours. This results in a younger, more energetic, and healthier appearance.
A facelift can also help individuals regain self-confidence. By creating positive changes in both social life and self-perception, a facelift aligns one’s external appearance with internal feelings. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, today’s facelift procedures provide more natural results and allow for a youthful appearance without altering facial expressions. Especially with modern methods that involve minimal scarring, the post-operative process becomes more comfortable.
A facelift is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the scope of the procedure. Prior to surgery, a thorough examination is conducted to assess skin elasticity and to develop a surgical plan based on the individual’s needs. The surgeon places incisions along natural creases such as the hairline, in front of and behind the ears to minimize visibility. Accurate planning is a critical step that affects both the aesthetic outcome and the subtlety of post-operative scars.
During the procedure, facial muscles are tightened, underlying tissues are reshaped, and excess skin is removed. If necessary, fat tissue may be redistributed to balance facial volume. These steps help rejuvenate the facial contours. At the end of the surgery, the incisions are closed with aesthetic sutures and the face is supported with bandages. A facelift can be performed on the lower, middle, or upper parts of the face individually, or as a comprehensive procedure covering the entire face.
There are different techniques used in facelift surgeries. A classic facelift is a comprehensive method used in cases of significant sagging and involves deeper tissue manipulation. A mini facelift is a less invasive option preferred for early signs of aging or mild sagging. Endoscopic facelifts, a more modern technique, are performed through small incisions with the assistance of a camera and have a shorter recovery time. Our expert and experienced team determines the most appropriate facelift method based on the patient’s facial anatomy and expectations, offering the most effective personalized solution.
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A facelift is performed when signs of aging become prominent. It is especially effective in cases where the jawline becomes undefined, the cheeks sag downward, and the neck area becomes loose. Excess skin resulting from weight loss, premature sagging due to genetic predisposition, or loss of elasticity caused by sun damage may also warrant a facelift.
The goal of facelift surgery is to provide a more youthful, vibrant, and dynamic appearance. Since the facial expression muscles are preserved, the natural look of the face is maintained. A facelift offers a long-lasting and effective solution in cases where temporary treatments like fillers or Botox are no longer sufficient.
The duration of a facelift varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Generally lasting between 2 to 4 hours, the operation may take longer if performed in combination with other procedures such as neck lift, eyelid surgery, or fat injections. The duration of the surgery is closely related to the surgeon’s experience and the surgical technique used.
In the pre-operative planning stage, the areas requiring intervention are identified, and the surgical steps are structured according to the overall facial anatomy. While procedures targeting limited areas such as a mini facelift are completed in a shorter time, full facelifts take slightly longer. In our clinic, the duration of surgery is optimized based on the patient’s needs to ensure a safe and comfortable operation.
Undergoing a facelift requires careful preparation. The first step involves a detailed consultation. The patient’s overall health status, medications, and previous surgeries are reviewed. The surgeon creates a surgical plan based on criteria such as skin elasticity, muscle structure, and the degree of sagging.
Smoking should be stopped at least two weeks before surgery, alcohol consumption should be reduced, and blood-thinning medications should not be taken without a doctor’s approval. Proper nutrition and immune-supporting supplements help prepare the body for surgery. Our physician meticulously manages the preoperative process to ensure that patients are physically and psychologically prepared for the operation.
Facelift prices vary based on the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the equipment and facilities of the surgical center. A mini facelift, a full facelift, or combination surgeries involving additional procedures require different budgets. In every patient-specific plan, the chosen surgical technique and the materials used are key factors affecting the overall cost.
In a facelift operation, the focus should not only be on cost but also on the quality of the application and the longevity of the results. With our personalized and detailed assessment process, we determine aesthetic needs, create the most suitable surgical plan, and offer a safe operational experience tailored to individual expectations.
The main goal of facelift surgery is to reduce signs of aging while preserving the natural facial expression. With modern surgical techniques, the procedure targets only loosened tissues and sagging skin without damaging the facial muscles responsible for expressions. Therefore, facial muscles maintain their function. Smiling, frowning, or showing surprise will not be affected.
In the first few weeks after surgery, you may feel a temporary restriction in your facial expressions due to swelling and tightness. However, this is a normal part of the healing process and will gradually subside. As the swelling decreases and the skin settles, your expressions will return to normal. The aim of a facelift is not a frozen face but a refreshed, healthy, and energetic look that harmonizes with natural expressions. In facelifts performed by our expert surgeon, facial expressions and individual mimic structure are always prioritized, with naturalness being the key principle.
Scarring is an inevitable outcome of facelift surgery. However, thanks to advanced surgical techniques, scars are kept as discreet as possible. Incisions are usually hidden along the hairline, in front of and behind the ears, areas where natural creases help camouflage them. These regions have less skin movement, which allows for faster healing and fading of scars over time.
In the first few weeks after surgery, scars may be noticeable. With proper care—such as using recommended products, avoiding smoking, and protecting from the sun—scars become significantly less visible within a few months. For individuals with fair and elastic skin, this process may be even quicker. Following your surgeon’s wound care recommendations diligently contributes to achieving more aesthetically pleasing scar results.
It is important to avoid makeup until the skin has sufficiently healed. Makeup should be strictly avoided for the first 10 days after surgery. During this time, there are still healing stitches and sensitive areas on the face. Applying chemical-based products to these zones can increase infection risk, delay healing, or worsen scarring.
Once the skin has healed and stitches are removed, usually after two weeks, light makeup may be applied. However, only hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products should be used. Foundation or concealers should not be applied directly over incision areas. Additionally, incorporating sun protection products into your daily routine is essential.
Yes, direct sun exposure after a facelift is not recommended. Sunlight can damage the still-healing skin tissue and may cause scars to become permanent. Avoiding UV exposure is especially crucial for the first 4 to 6 weeks. During this period, the skin is sensitive and may develop sunspots, redness, or pigmentation irregularities.
If sun exposure is unavoidable, you should use high-protection sunscreen (SPF 50+), and avoid direct contact with the sun. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and accessories that shade the face should be used. Keep in mind that sun protection plays a critical role in the aesthetic success of the surgery.
It is generally recommended to wait 3 to 4 weeks before dyeing your hair after a facelift. Most incisions are located near the hairline, and exposing these healing areas to chemical products too soon can cause irritation or delay recovery. Hair dyes containing ammonia, in particular, may cause unwanted reactions on sensitive skin.
Once the healing process is complete and your surgeon approves, you may resume hair dyeing. For the first coloring session, it’s safer to choose natural, herbal, or low-chemical products. Avoid applying pressure to the scalp during the process, and wash the hair gently.
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