A facelift, or meloplasty or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing signs of ageing in the lower two-thirds of the face, including the cheeks, jawline, and upper neck.
The natural ageing process can result in a loss of skin elasticity, the formation of jowls, pronounced nasolabial folds, skin ptosis (sagging), and wrinkles. Additionally, there is a reduction in volume of the fat pads in the face and remodelling of the underlying facial bone structure.
Facelift surgery aims to alter facial contours by repositioning tissues and removing skin, and is highly individualised. It can range from minimally invasive procedures to more comprehensive surgical techniques, depending on the patient’s concerns and goals. This procedure is often combined with a neck lift, or platysmaplasty, to achieve a harmonious look. Facelift surgery does not stop the natural ageing process.
Surgical Techniques
Facelifts are tailored to the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic needs. Techniques include:
- Traditional Facelift: This technique involves incisions around the ears and into the hairline. It allows access to deep facial layers for repositioning sagging muscles, tightening connective tissues, and removing excess skin.
- SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) Facelift: This method targets the SMAS layer beneath the skin, providing more structural rejuvenation and longer-lasting results.
- Mini Facelift: With shorter incisions and limited dissection, this option is typically recommended for patients with mild facial laxity or early signs of ageing.
- Deep Plane Facelift: Involves lifting the skin and SMAS together for more dramatic results with a natural look. Typically, suitable for more advanced signs of ageing.
Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your unique features, skin condition, and goals.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure.
- The surgery will vary between patients depending on the surgical technique advised by your plastic surgeon.
- Deep tissue layers, such as the SMAS, are repositioned and secured to provide support and structure.
- Fat may be sculpted, redistributed, or removed to improve contour, particularly around the jawline and cheeks.
- Excess skin is removed, and the incisions are closed with sutures. Dressings may be applied to reduce swelling and support the tissues during healing.
- The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on complexity.
Potential Benefits of a Facelift
A facelift may assist with the following concerns:
- Jowling along the jawline and loss of facial contour
- Deep creases extending from the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds)
- Loss of skin elasticity around the cheeks or lower face
- General facial laxity and skin wrinkling
Individual results vary and are influenced by age, skin condition, and post-surgical care.
Risks and Considerations
Modern surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgical procedure, the facelift procedure carries risks. These include temporary nerve injury affecting facial movement or sensation. Rare complications may include haematoma (collection of blood beneath the skin), infection, or delayed wound healing. Working with a certified and experienced plastic surgeon significantly minimises these risks. For a list of general and specific risks and complications associated with plastic surgery and breast lifts, please click here to download.
During your consultation, your APCS surgeon will talk about possible risks and complications. It is essential to grasp these factors before deciding to proceed with any surgical procedure. Any concerns should be communicated to the team at Advanced Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery (APCS).
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a facelift is gradual and varies among individuals. A general guide includes:
- First Week: Swelling and bruising are most noticeable during the first 5–7 days. Any drains placed during surgery are typically removed within a few days.
- 2–3 Weeks: Sutures are removed and patients often return to work and light activities. Makeup may be used to conceal residual bruising.
- 4–6 Weeks: Most swelling subsides and facial contours begin to settle. Exercise and more strenuous activities can be resumed with your surgeon’s guidance.
- 3–6 Months: The final results become visible as scars mature and tissues settle into their new position.
Patients should follow all aftercare instructions, including wound care, sleeping positions, and avoiding sun exposure to ensure optimal healing.
Who Might Be Suitable for a Facelift?
You may be a good candidate for a facelift if you:
- Have a loss of facial skin elasticity, jowls, or a loss of facial definition
- Are in good physical health with no underlying conditions that impair healing
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop during the recovery period
- Have realistic expectations about the results
A detailed consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to assess your individual needs and determine suitability.
Q: Will the results look natural?
A: Yes. A well-performed facelift is designed to refresh the appearance of the face while preserving natural movement and expression.
Q: How long do the results last?
A: Facelift results typically last between 8 and 10 years, but this varies depending on factors such as genetics, skin condition, lifestyle, and sun exposure.
Q: Can I combine a facelift with other procedures?
A: Yes. Many patients combine a facelift with eyelid surgery, brow lift, or fat grafting for more comprehensive approach.
Q: Will I have visible scars?
A: Scars are placed discreetly around the ears and hairline. They tend to fade over time and are often difficult to detect.
Important Note
Surgical outcomes can vary significantly between individuals. Any before-and-after images or descriptions of outcomes (not included here) are not indicative of what every patient may achieve. Only a consultation with an RACS Certified plastic surgeon can determine whether facelift surgery (rhytidectomy) is suitable for you.
Deciding on facelift surgery (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) is a personal choice that’s best made with a full understanding of the potential benefits, limitations, and risks. Our surgeons at Advanced Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery provide evidence-based guidance and a transparent consultation process to help you make an informed decision. If you would like to explore whether facelift surgery (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) is suitable for you, we encourage you to arrange a consultation with our team.