FACELIFT (RHYTIDECTOMY)
What is a facelift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting age-related changes in the face and neck area, such as sagging, skin laxity, loss of definition in the jawline, and neck bands. The goal is to achieve a more youthful and toned appearance while preserving the natural expression of the face.
A facelift is often not just about "tightening the skin"; the underlying supporting tissue (SMAS) and, in some patients, the structures in the neck area are also repositioned to achieve a more permanent and natural result.
Who is it suitable for?
You may be a suitable candidate for evaluation if you have any of the following complaints:
- Significant sagging in the cheeks and jawline (jowl)
- Prominent nasolabial folds
- Laxity in the neck, sagging in the chin area, vertical bands
- Loss of facial oval definition
- Inability to achieve the desired tightening with non-surgical methods (fillers, Botox, etc.)
Suitability is evaluated together with skin quality, degree of sagging, neck structure, general health status, and expectations.
What are the types of facelifts?
During the examination, different scopes can be planned according to your needs:
- Mini facelift: For patients with more limited sagging and a shorter recovery period.
- Classic/complete facelift: Covers the mid-face, lower face, and often the neck area together.
- Neck lift addition: For patients with significant laxity under the chin and neck.
- Mid-face procedures / fat injection / filler supports: To complete the contour in patients with volume loss.
The choice of technique is individualized according to the direction of sagging, SMAS structure, neck findings, and desired results.
Where are the incisions (scars)?
Facelift incisions are generally planned:
Starting in front of the ear and going around the ear,
Extending within the hairline/behind the back of the ear.
The aim is to hide the scars as much as possible within the hair and natural folds. The visibility of the scars depends on individual wound healing and care.
What procedures are most frequently performed in conjunction with a facelift?
Frequently combined procedures:
- Neck lift / double chin liposuction
- Fat injection (lipofilling)
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Eyebrow/temple lift
- Procedures such as laser/peeling for skin quality (usually with different timing)
The combination is planned according to safety, surgery duration and goals.
Anesthesia and surgery duration
Facelifts are usually performed under general anesthesia (sedation may be an option in some selected patients). The duration varies depending on the scope of the procedure, but is approximately 3-6 hours for most patients (may vary from person to person). Additional procedures may extend the duration.
Pre-operative preparation
Frequently recommended topics:
- If you smoke: quitting/reducing smoking for skin circulation and wound healing
- Adjustment of blood thinners and some supplements
- Scheduling for hair dyeing/chemical treatments (pre-/post-operative plan)
- Patient plan for the first few days after surgery
- Necessary tests and anesthesia evaluation
Recovery process and return to daily life
General timeline (may vary from person to person):
- First 3–5 days: Swelling, bruising, tightness; face and neck bandage may be used.
- Week 1: Bruising/edema may continue; follow-up examinations are important.
- 7–14 days: Some stitches can be removed; return to social life is possible for many patients.
- 2–4 weeks: Edema decreases, facial features become clearer; gradual return to light exercise.
- 6 weeks and beyond: Gradual return to more intense sports (clarified with follow-ups).
- 3–6 months: Tissue settling becomes noticeable; Scars continue to mature.
Cold application, elevating the head, salt restriction, bandage/corset use for specified periods, and adherence to follow-up appointments support healing.
Safety, Risks, and “Things to Know”
While facelift surgery is a safe procedure in experienced hands, like any surgical procedure, it carries risks. The most frequently discussed topics are:
- Bruising, edema, temporary asymmetry
- Bleeding, hematoma, infection
- Wound site problems, scarring
- Temporary loss of sensation in the scalp
- Numbness around the ear (usually temporary)
- Circulation problems in the skin (risk increases with smoking)
- Rarely, the need for revision (additional correction)
Rare but significant risks:
- Temporary (very rarely permanent) weakness in facial nerve branches
-Significant hematoma (may require early intervention)
Situations requiring urgent evaluation include rapidly increasing unilateral swelling, severe pain, sudden bleeding, and high fever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) Will a facelift change my facial expression?
The goal is not to create "another face"; it is to correct sagging while preserving natural expression. With the right technique and measured lifting, a more natural result is aimed for.
2) How much younger will I look?
The result varies from person to person. A facelift generally provides a noticeable tightening of the face and neck; instead of asking "how many years younger", realistic goals are determined based on your examination findings.
3) How long does it last?
Aging is an ongoing process; a facelift corrects existing sagging and provides long-term benefits. The longevity depends on skin quality, lifestyle, weight changes, and genetic factors.
4) Will scars be noticeable?
Since incisions are placed in natural creases and along the hairline, scars are not noticeable in most patients. They become more prominent in the first few months and fade over time. Scar quality depends on individual healing.
5) Will my neck also be tightened?
In many patients, the facelift plan also includes the neck area. If neck findings are significant, a "neck lift" may need to be added.
6) Is the surgery painful?
Severe pain is generally not expected; there may be more feelings of tightness, tenderness, and fullness. This can be managed with medication.
7) When can I return to work?
For desk jobs, most patients can return within 10–14 days. The visibility of bruising/edema varies from person to person.
8) When can I go out/return to social life?
Many patients can comfortably go out in social settings around the 2nd week. If there are plans for photos/special events, the safer timeframe is usually 3–4 weeks and beyond.
9) When can I exercise?
Light walking can be started early. For intense cardio and weight training activities, it is more appropriate for most patients after 4–6 weeks; a definite plan will be given at follow-up appointments.
10) Will there be hair loss?
Temporary hair loss may occur around the incision; this usually resolves over time in most patients. Scalp planning and technique are important in reducing this risk.
11) Is having had fillers/botox a problem?
It is generally not a problem; However, it is necessary to assess the current volume and tissue condition of the face. The timing of your final injections will be planned during the examination.
12) Should fat injection be done together with a facelift?
In some patients, volume loss is as significant as sagging. In this case, fat injection can make the result look more balanced and natural. It is not mandatory; it is planned according to need.
13) When will the result “fully settle”?
Although swelling decreases within weeks, it takes several months for the tissues to fully settle and for the scars to mature. In most patients, a clearer appearance is achieved after 6 weeks, and a more settled appearance between 3-6 months.
14) Is a revision necessary?
In most patients, it is not necessary; however, in rare cases, additional correction may be planned in cases such as scarring, asymmetry, excess skin, or contour irregularities.
The content on this page is for general informational purposes only; it does not replace diagnosis and treatment. The appropriate surgical method and planning are determined by face-to-face examination and medical evaluation.



















































