Face Lift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery

What is Face Lift surgery?

Face Lift surgery, also known as Rhytidectomy, is a Plastic Surgery that aims to create a younger look in the face by removing the excess skin on the face.

Why is Face Lift performed?

Face Lift is a general term used to describe any cosmetic application in which signs of aging are corrected by tightening the skin on the neck, under the chin, and around the cheek. Face Lift Surgery aims to create a smoother, more youthful appearance. If the patient has noticeable signs of aging, wrinkles, or looks older than their actual age a Face Lift procedure can help to alleviate them.

How much does a facelift cost?

Facelift prices in Turkey can be more affordable compared to many Western countries, including the United States and parts of Europe. However, the cost of a facelift in Turkey can still vary based on factors such as the specific location within Turkey, the reputation and experience of the surgeon or clinic, the type of facelift procedure, and any additional services included in the package.

On average, a facelift in Turkey may cost anywhere from 3,500 to 5,000€ or more. This price generally covers the surgeon's fees, anesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative care. It's important to ensure that you choose a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon or clinic with a good track record for safety and quality results.

It's also crucial to consider other expenses such as travel, accommodation, and potential pre-operative and post-operative care when calculating the total cost of getting a facelift in Turkey. While Turkey is known for its competitive prices for cosmetic procedures, it's essential to do thorough research and consult with multiple surgeons to ensure that you receive the best care and achieve your desired results.

Please keep in mind that prices can change over time, so it's advisable to contact clinics or surgeons directly for the most up-to-date information on facelift costs in Turkey.

What are the conditions for Face Lift Surgery?

The ideal candidates for Face Lift surgery are those whose face and neck skin has begun to sag, but their skin has not yet lost its elasticity. Patients who can safely undergo general anesthesia and have enough saggy skin are eligible for Face Lift. Face Lift surgery is usually applied to patients over the age of 40. However, Face Lift surgery can be performed in full or in a limited manner at earlier ages as well depending on the patient. Face Lift surgery is commonly combined with Rhinoplasty, Blepharoplasty, Forehead reduction, and Eyebrow Lift.

What are the Face Lift surgery types?

There are 4 types of Face Lift surgeries, but a Lower Face Lift is the same as a Neck Lift surgery and has a separate page with more information.

Full Face Lift

Also called a Deep Plane Lift, aims to eliminate the sagging skin at the base of the chin and the neck by lifting and strengthening the lax muscles in that portion of the face. Deep plane Face Lift involves the surgeon delving beneath the musculoaponeurotic system, SMAS. Located under the skin close to the muscles used for smiling and frowning, the surgeon will reposition, reshape, and smooth out the SMAS layer to iron out wrinkles and make the patient look younger and more radiant.

Mini Face Lift

Mini Face Lift involves the usage of small, inconspicuous incisions under the hairline so that the surgeon can skillfully tighten and smooth out the skin while removing excess tissue. A mini Face Lift is effective in reducing the appearance of jowls or eliminating them completely. Jowls usually form around the lower half of the cheeks and mouth as a result of reduced collagen production as people get older.

Mid Face Lift

As the name implies, Mid Face Lift targets the midsection of the face, particularly the cheeks. Unlike a Cheek Implant, the surgeon will either remove excess tissue or use existing tissue instead of Implants to lift up the cheeks, eliminate sagging, and remove wrinkles. Mid Face Lift is recommended to patients who don’t have jowls or marionette lines. However, it can also be performed in conjunction with procedures that remove jowls and marionette lines as well.

What Are The Things To Be Considered Before Face Lift?

Before Face Lift surgery, patients should:

• Be at the hospital a day before their surgery for the pre operative tests to be performed.
• Stop smoking and consuming alcohol at least 2 weeks before the surgery to alleviate the risk of a blood clot.
• Avoid medication containing aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) for two weeks before and after surgery. These medications may increase the risk of internal bleeding. Patients should confirm each medication and supplement they wish to take with their Patient Coordinator.
• Should stop taking multivitamin supplements a week and Vitamin K supplements a month prior to the surgery.
• Stop taking oral contraceptives a month before the surgery.

Also, the patient's face will be examined and measured, and the surgeon might have photographs taken so that the patient can compare the appearance before and after the Facelift surgery.

How is the Face Lift surgery performed?

What should I expect from a facelift consultation?

A facelift consultation is an important step in the process of considering and planning for a facelift surgery. During the consultation, you'll have the opportunity to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, medical history, and the details of the procedure. Here's what you can expect from a typical facelift consultation:

1. Discussion of Your Goals:
   - You'll start by discussing your reasons for considering a facelift and your specific goals. Be prepared to explain what bothers you about your appearance and what you hope to achieve with the surgery.

2. Medical History:
   - The surgeon will ask about your medical history, including any pre-existing health conditions, allergies, medications, and previous surgeries. This information is important to ensure that you're a suitable candidate for the procedure and to identify any potential risks.

3. Physical Examination:
   - The surgeon will conduct a physical examination of your face and neck to assess your skin elasticity, muscle tone, and areas of concern. This examination helps the surgeon determine the most appropriate surgical approach for your unique needs.

4. Discussion of Options:
   - The surgeon will discuss different facelift techniques and options that may be suitable for you. These could include full facelifts, mini facelifts, neck lifts, and non-surgical procedures. They will explain the pros and cons of each option and recommend the one that best aligns with your goals.

5. Review of the Procedure:
   - The surgeon will explain the facelift procedure, including the incision placement, the removal of excess skin and fat, and the repositioning of facial tissues. They will also discuss the type of anesthesia used and the surgical facility.

6. Expected Results:
   - You'll receive information about what you can realistically expect in terms of results, including potential benefits and limitations of the surgery. The surgeon may show you before-and-after photos of previous patients to give you an idea of what's achievable.

7. Risks and Complications:
   - The surgeon will explain the potential risks and complications associated with facelift surgery, such as scarring, infection, bruising, and anesthesia risks. They will also discuss the steps taken to minimize these risks.

8. Recovery and Aftercare:
   - You'll be provided with information on the facelift recovery process, including post-operative care, downtime, and any restrictions on activities.

9. Cost and Financing:
   - The surgeon's office or clinic staff will provide you with a cost estimate for the procedure. They may also discuss financing options and payment plans if available.

10. Questions and Clarifications:
    - This is your opportunity to ask any questions or seek clarification on any aspect of the procedure. Make sure you fully understand the process, risks, and expected outcomes.

Remember that a facelift consultation is a two-way conversation, and it's important to be open and honest with your surgeon about your goals and concerns. It's also an opportunity for you to assess whether you feel comfortable with the surgeon and their recommendations. Take your time, gather all the information you need, and consider multiple consultations with different surgeons before making your decision.

Full Face Lift Procedure

A traditional Face Lift incision often begins in the hairline at the temples, continues around the ear, and ends around the lower scalp. Fat may be sculpted or redistributed from the face, jowls, or the neck and the underlying tissue is repositioned, commonly the deeper layers of the face and the muscles are also lifted

Mid Face Lift Procedure

The surgeon will make the initial incisions around the hairline and forehead to access the drooping facial muscles. Incisions may also be made for endoscopes to improve visualization. The doctor will then dissect the skin from the muscle in the forehead and cheek area. The muscles will then be fixated to a higher position, closer to the temples and the sides of the rim of the eye bone.

Mini Face Lift Procedure

Mini Face Lift is the least invasive kind of Face Liftm differing from the Deep Plane Lift by only the lack of the neck lift during Mini Face Lift surgery. Smaller incisions are used instead, but is still an invasive surgery and is the same as a Full Face lift.

What are The Things To Be Considered After Face Lift Surgery?

During the healing process, patients are advised to:

• Not wear their contact lenses until a day after the surgery, glasses may be worn as soon as the bandages are removed.
• Not take a shower for at least 2 days after the surgery and not use hair dryers for a month.
• Not to color their hair until 6 weeks after the surgery.
• Wear clothing that would avoid friction on the incision sites when worn or taken off.
• Not to participate in strenuous physical activity, swimming or exercises that require rotating the head for 6 weeks after the surgery.
• To turn around with their whole upper body, using their shoulders as well, to avoid putting pressure on the face and the neck.
• Avoid gum or foods that are hard to chew.
• Not to drive for 2 weeks after the surgery.
• Not to smoke for a month after surgery as it can cause necrosis as well as infection, poor healing, scarring, and many other negative side effects.

What Are The Risks of Face Lift Surgery?

Risks of Face Lift Surgery include, but are not limited to:

• Hematoma: A collection of blood under the skin is the most common complication of a Face Lift. A hematoma causes swelling and pressure, and usually forms within 24 hours of the surgery.
• Nerve injury: Injury to nerves is rare. An injury can affect nerves that control sensation or muscles. This effect may be temporary or permanent.
• Skin loss: Rarely, a face-lift can interrupt the blood supply to facial tissues. This can result in skin loss. Skin loss is treated with medications and appropriate wound care.
• Hair loss
• Bleeding
• Infection

What should I expect during facelift recovery?

Facelift recovery is a crucial part of the overall facelift process. Here's what you can generally expect during the recovery period following a facelift surgery:

1. Immediate Post-Operative Period:
   - You will spend some time in the recovery area of the surgical facility to be monitored by medical staff as you wake up from anesthesia. This is typically a few hours.

2. Swelling and Bruising:
   - Swelling and bruising are common after a facelift. They are usually most pronounced in the first few days after surgery and gradually subside over the following weeks.

3. Pain and Discomfort:
   - You may experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon. You should take these medications as directed.

4. Dressing and Bandages:
   - Your surgeon will place dressings or bandages on the incision sites to protect them and help reduce swelling. These will be removed during a follow-up appointment.

5. Stitches Removal:
   - If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they will typically be removed about one week after the surgery.

6. Drainage Tubes (if used):
   - In some cases, drainage tubes may be placed behind the ears to remove excess fluid. These are usually removed after a day or two.

7. Rest and Recovery:
   - It's important to get plenty of rest during the initial recovery period. Elevating your head and using extra pillows while sleeping can help reduce swelling.

8. Activity Restrictions:
   - Your surgeon will provide guidelines on when it's safe to resume normal activities. Strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise should be avoided for several weeks.

9. Diet and Hydration:
   - Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support the healing process.

10. Follow-up Appointments:
    - You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and remove any sutures or dressings.

11. Skin Care and Sun Protection:
    - Your surgeon will recommend specific skincare and sun protection measures to help protect your skin and optimize your results.

12. Swelling Resolution:
    - Swelling will continue to improve over several weeks to months. It may take several months for your face to fully settle into its final shape.

13. Scar Care:
    - Your surgeon will advise you on scar care, which may include keeping incisions out of direct sunlight and using scar creams or gels as recommended.

14. Return to Normal Appearance:
    - It can take several weeks to months for you to see the final results of your facelift, as your face gradually heals and the swelling and bruising subside.

Keep in mind that individual recovery experiences can vary, so it's important to follow your surgeon's specific post-operative care instructions. If you have any concerns or notice any unexpected changes during your recovery, be sure to contact your surgeon's office for guidance and support. Facelift recovery can require patience, but the ultimate goal is to achieve a refreshed and more youthful appearance.

What to do if you have problems after facelift surgery?

If you experience problems or complications after facelift surgery, it's essential to address them promptly to ensure your safety and the best possible outcome. Here are some steps to take if you have issues after facelift surgery:

1. Contact Your Coordinator: The first and most important step is to contact your coordinator or Booking Surgery immediately. They are the best source of guidance and support. They have an understanding of your specific case and can provide tailored advice.

2. Follow Medical Advice: Listen carefully to your coordinator or surgeon's instructions and recommendations. They may have you come in for a follow-up appointment to assess the issue and provide treatment if necessary.

3. Pain and Discomfort:  If you're experiencing significant pain or discomfort, let your coordinator know. They may adjust your pain medication or recommend other ways to manage your discomfort.

4. Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after a facelift, but if they seem excessive or get worse instead of improving, contact your surgeon. They may need to evaluate for potential complications.

5. Infection: If you suspect an infection (signs can include increased redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, or fever), contact your coordinator immediately. Infections are rare but can be serious and need prompt treatment with antibiotics.

6. Bleeding: While some oozing is normal, if you experience persistent or excessive bleeding from the incision sites, contact your surgeon. They will advise you on what to do.

7. Unusual Changes: If you notice any unusual or unexpected changes in your face, such as asymmetry or skin color changes, report them to your coordinator.

8. Scarring: If you're concerned about the appearance of your scars or if they are not healing as expected, your surgeon can provide guidance on scar care and may recommend treatments to improve their appearance.

9. Skin Issues: If you experience skin issues such as rashes or irritation, inform your coordinator, as they can recommend appropriate skincare products and remedies.

10. Psychological Support: If you're struggling emotionally or psychologically with the recovery process or the results, don't hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional or counselor.

It's important to communicate openly and honestly with your coordinator and follow their guidance. In some cases, additional treatments or revisions may be necessary, but your coordinator will guide you through the process. The key is to act promptly and not delay addressing any concerns to ensure the best possible recovery and outcome.