Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)

Rediscover a more youthful and refreshed version of yourself with facelift surgery – a personalised procedure tailored to your individual needs and goals, designed to turn back the clock and rejuvenate your appearance

Facelift surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help to reverse the signs of facial ageing and restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The procedure involves tightening and lifting the skin and muscles of the face and neck, and can address a range of concerns such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of facial volume.

If you are considering a facelift, it is normal to have questions about the procedure and what to expect. At Centre for Surgery, our team of expert plastic surgeons are highly skilled in facial rejuvenation and can work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

During your initial consultation, our surgeons will discuss your medical history and examine your face and neck to assess your skin quality, facial structure, and areas of concern. They will then recommend the most appropriate facelift technique to achieve the best possible results for you.

We offer a range of facelift procedures, including the SMAS facelift, deep plane facelift, and mini facelift, as well as complementary treatments such as neck lift, brow lift, and eyelid surgery.

Our surgeons use the latest techniques and technology to ensure a safe and effective procedure, with minimal scarring and downtime. We also provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you achieve the best possible results and minimise the risk of complications.

We believe that everyone deserves to look and feel their best, and we are committed to helping you achieve your cosmetic goals with the highest level of care and expertise.

RELATED: Facelift Surgery FAQs – Q&As about Rhytidectomy

Facelift Expected Results

The expected results of a facelift procedure can vary depending on the individual patient but generally include the following:

Improved Facial Contours

A facelift can improve the contours of the face, giving it a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The procedure can lift and reposition the cheeks and jowls, which can help to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines.

Tightened Skin

A facelift can remove excess skin and tighten the remaining skin, which can help to improve the appearance of the face and neck. This can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and can also help to improve the definition of the jawline and neck.

Reduced Sagging

A facelift can address sagging skin in the mid-face, jawline, and neck. This can help to reduce the appearance of sagging jowls and a “turkey neck” and can also help to improve the overall shape of the face and neck.

Long-lasting Results

The results of a facelift can last for several years, depending on the individual’s age, skin condition and overall health. The procedure can provide a long-term solution for addressing the signs of ageing.

A facelift aims to improve the appearance of the face by tightening and repositioning the skin and underlying tissue. The procedure can address wrinkles, sagging skin, and loss of definition in the mid-face, jawline, and neck. Here are some of the benefits of a facelift procedure:

Improved Appearance of Wrinkles and Fine Lines

A facelift can smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face, particularly those around the mouth, nose, and eyes.

Tightened and Firmer Skin

The procedure can help to tighten and firm the skin on the face, giving it a more youthful appearance.

Enhanced Definition of the Jawline and Neck

A facelift can also help to enhance the definition of the jawline and neck, giving the face a more balanced and proportionate look.

Long-lasting Results

Facelift results can be long-lasting, especially when compared to non-surgical options such as injectable fillers or wrinkle relaxing injections. The effects of a facelift can last for several years, depending on the patient’s age, lifestyle, and overall health.

Increased Self-confidence

Many patients report an increase in self-confidence after a facelift, as they feel more attractive and youthful.

Customisable to suit individual needs

Facelift procedures can be customised to suit individual needs and can be combined with other procedures to provide a comprehensive, well-rounded result.

RELATED: What signs of ageing can a facelift and neck lift correct?

Whether or not you are a good candidate for facelift surgery depends on a number of factors, including your overall health, skin type, and desired results.

RELATED: 6 Questions To Ask Before Getting A Facelift

Some of the factors that may make you a suitable candidate for facelift surgery include the following:

Age

Facelift surgery is typically recommended for patients over the age of 40, as this is when the signs of ageing typically become more pronounced.

Skin Type

Patients with good skin elasticity and minimal sun damage are generally considered to be the best candidates for facelift surgery.

Desired Results

If you have realistic expectations of what facelift surgery can achieve and understand that it can’t stop the ageing process, it can help to reverse some of the signs of ageing.

Overall Health

Patients who are in good overall health and have no underlying medical conditions that could complicate the surgery or recovery process are generally considered to be the best candidates for facelift surgery.

Some factors that may make you less suitable for facelift surgery include:

Smoking

Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications, so it’s best to quit smoking for at least six weeks before and after the surgery.

Excessive weight

Being overweight can make the procedure more challenging, and it’s best to be at a stable weight before considering the surgery.

Active skin conditions

Patients with active skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis may not be suitable for the surgery.

RELATED: Key Questions to Explore Before Deciding on Facelift Surgery

Are facelifts only for women?

Men and women both experience the effects of the facial ageing process, and both can benefit from facelift surgery. Demand for facelift surgery in men in the UK has increased by over 25% over the last twenty years, while demand for female procedures has remained relatively static. About 10% of all facelift procedures are performed in men and this is a growing percentage year on year.

RELATED: Male Facelift

The ideal candidates for a facelift procedure are men and women with a face and neck that are starting to look older but with elastic skin and a very well-defined bone structure. Even though most facelift patients are around 40 to 60, a facelift can be successfully performed in patients between 70 and 80, subject to satisfactory medical clearance for the surgical procedure.

Some questions to ask at your facelift consultation

• Am I an ideal candidate for facelift surgery?
• Is it possible to attain results that are in line with my expectations?
• What can I do to achieve ideal results following the facelift procedure?
• Do you have before and after photos of patients who have undergone similar facelift procedures?
• What can I expect in the recovery period after a facelift?
• What scars are created from facelift surgery, and where will they be located?
• Will I experience pain after facelift surgery?
• How soon can I return to work after a facelift?

Do I need a Facelift?

Determining if a facelift is right for you depends on your individual concerns and desired outcome. While there is no specific age or set criteria for a facelift, it is often a suitable option for individuals looking to reverse the signs of ageing and restore a more youthful appearance. At Centre for Surgery, our expert surgeons prioritise achieving a natural-looking and proportional result to ensure that your facelift is not obvious or gives the impression of having had plastic surgery. With the latest advances in facial rejuvenation techniques and an understanding of facial anatomy, we can offer a safe and effective procedure with minimal downtime, providing you with a natural, youthful appearance.

Facelift surgery is a cosmetic procedure that aims to restore a youthful appearance to the face by tightening and lifting the skin and underlying tissues. With advances in technology and surgical techniques, facelift surgery has become safer, more effective, and longer-lasting.

RELATED: What is the Best Age for a Facelift?

Our experienced surgeons will create a customised treatment plan based on your individual needs. Depending on the extent of your facial ageing, you may require a mid-face lift, neck lift, or a comprehensive facelift procedure.

Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia with the assistance of a qualified anaesthetist. The length of the procedure can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and may take anywhere from three to six hours. Patients will be able to go home on the same day as their procedure, but you may be asked to stay locally for the first 24 hours if they have had a comprehensive facelift to allow our nurses to review you the next morning.

RELATED: Different Types of Facelift And Neck Lift

Our team uses advanced techniques to minimise scarring and promote a natural-looking outcome. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure, as well as the expected recovery period and any potential complications. Here is a description of the most commonly performed types of facelifts at Centre for Surgery:

SMAS Facelift

The SMAS facelift involves tightening the skin and underlying deeper tissues, including the SMAS layer. In conjunction with the SMAS, the platysma layer in the neck is also tightened to restore youthful contours in the lower face and neck. After reconstructing the deeper tissues using precise suture placement, the skin layer is lifted, tightened, and excess skin removed. In SMAS facelifts, the incision does not have as much tension as a cutaneous skin-only facelift. The resulting scars look much better. SMAS facelifts have more robust results and last much longer than skin-only facelifts. SMAS facelifts, when performed by an expert facelift surgeon at Centre for Surgery can last for ten years or more.

Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift is the most invasive and major type of facelift surgery. It is a more advanced version of the traditional facelift. Deep plane facelifts have more powerful rejuvenating effects – they can correct deeper nasolabial folds as the plane of dissection is actually beneath the SMAS layer on top of the facial muscles. The deep plane of dissection results in even less tension on the skin compared with a SMAS facelift. Deep-plane facelifts are often ideal for those with thicker skin and heavy faces. Male facelifts are often deep-plane facelifts.

A deep plane facelift requires a surgeon who is experienced in facial plastic surgery and regularly performs this type of facelift. The deep plane facelift takes considerably longer to perform as the dissection is extremely precise and meticulous. There is a higher risk of complications, including nerve injury, which can be permanent. Many facial plastic surgeons and well-informed patients will more commonly opt for a less invasive facelift option to minimise the risk of complications as much as possible.

Composite facelift

The composite facelift builds upon the SMAS plication facelift in several ways. It is regarded as a composite technique as it combines two key aspects of addressing gravitational changes to restore youthfulness to the face. A composite facelift is still a two-layered technique like a SMAS lift, but the key difference lies in the additional vertical upward vector that a composite facelift can achieve. A composite facelift addresses all the traditional areas of an SMAS facelift, such as the jowl area, cheeks and neck, but also includes rejuvenation of the periocular region.

The composite facelift has both horizontal and vertical components. The downtime after a composite facelift is slightly longer than a SMAS facelift with a longer duration of postoperative swelling. There is also a slight increase in the risk of postoperative complications.

Mid Facelift

The midface is the term used to describe the area of the face, which comprises the nose, eyes and corners of the mouth. With ageing and loss of skin laxity, these areas undergo sagging and downward descent under the influence of gravity. In some cases, patients may develop localised skin laxity of the eyes, cheeks and mouth without significant ageing of other parts of the face, such as the neck or jawline. In these cases, a mid-facelift could address these ageing changes effectively without the invasiveness and risks of a full facelift. Compared with a full facelift, the results of a mid-facelift are commonly seen as subtle in nature without the longevity of a full facelift. It is rare for our surgeons to perform a mid-facelift on their own. A mid-facelift is commonly combined with other complementary procedures, including eyelid surgery (both upper and lower blepharoplasty), brow lift and fat grafting to the face.

Mini Facelift

A mini facelift is a less invasive form of a traditional facelift. Mini facelifts are often very suitable for patients with mild degrees of ageing and facial descent in the lower third of the face. The most common age range for a mini facelift is patients in their 30s to early 50s who may not need a more extensive full facelift but may still benefit from the improvement of the facial contours, particularly the jowls and more defined jawline. Mini facelifts have experienced a surge in popularity recently and may go by several catchy names. They are often promoted as being able to be performed under a local anaesthetic with minimal downtime. Unlike a traditional facelift, which involves incisions in both front and behind the ears, a mini facelift or short-scar facelift often has incisions primarily in front of the ears without the extension into the posterior hairline. A mini facelift may not be as effective for ageing changes affecting the neck and the lower face. It is important to understand what the mini facelift will address for your face. Your surgeon can advise you on what the mini facelift can address at your consultation.

Full Neck Lift

Here is a general overview of the steps involved in a facelift procedure:

Anaesthesia

The patient will be given either general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation.

Incision

The surgeon will make incisions in the hairline at the temples, extending around the ear and ending in the lower scalp.

Deep Plane Technique

The surgeon will use a deep-plane technique to lift and reposition the deeper layers of the face, including the cheeks and jowls, to create a more youthful appearance.

SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) and/or platysma muscle tightening

The surgeon will then lift the SMAS layer and/or platysma muscle which will help to further improve the contours of the face and neck.

Excess skin removal

The surgeon will remove any excess skin and trim it to the appropriate size.

Closure

The incisions will be closed with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape.

The traditional facelift generally consists of incisions in both front and behind the ears. The incision behind the ears extends to the hairline. The surgeon would place the incisions strategically to look as inconspicuous as possible and blend in with the natural skin folds and contours. After a skin incision, the skin is gently lifted or undermined to separate the skin from the underlying soft tissue and muscle layer in the previously marked areas by the surgeon. After the soft tissue undermining component, the facelift surgeon surgically tightens the area in its new lifted position with sutures and finally trims any excess redundant tissue.

Facelift incisions & scars

In facelift surgery, positioning the skin incisions is vital for avoiding the impression that you have just had surgery. Most patients prefer a natural and rejuvenated look without features of visible incisions or scars. The expert facelift surgeon takes great care to place incisions in areas that are as well concealed as possible. The skin incisions are best placed in the natural folds both in front of and behind the ear, with the incision extending to the hairline where a neck lift is required. The position of the ear and hairline should be preserved and remain in the same position after surgery. The standard method for a facelift is to gently lift the deeper tissues to reduce tension on the skin layer, which reduces the risk of skin stretching. This means a more cosmetically acceptable scar is possible.

RELATED: Facelift Scars: What to Expect after Surgery

Patients are often concerned about the risk of possible hair loss from the incision. The surgeon will perform a bevelled incision technique to reduce this risk to facilitate proper hair growth. This is very important as it means patients are not restricted to wearing certain hairstyles to hide the incisions due to their visibility. Not all surgeons take this level of care and attention in scar cosmesis. All our surgeons are skilled in placing their incisions along the borders of the ear and behind the tragus of the ear. The incisions are much better concealed than placing incisions in front of the ear, which looks more visible. The incision behind the tragus is closed in such a way as to minimise distortion of this structure. It is essential to have a truly artistic eye for facelift surgery. Patient satisfaction is much higher when the results are natural, restoring youthful vitality without the telltale signs of having had a surgical procedure.

Recovery after facelift surgery is an important aspect of the process and can vary depending on the individual patient. Here is a general overview of what to expect during the recovery process:

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising are common after a facelift procedure and can last for several weeks. The swelling will typically peak in the first 2-3 days and then gradually subside.

Pain and Discomfort

Pain and discomfort are also common after a facelift procedure, but they can usually be managed with medication. Your surgeon will provide you with a pain management plan that you should follow.

Stitches and Bandages

The incisions will be closed with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape. The bandages will be removed within a few days of the surgery, and the stitches will be removed within a week or two.

Rest and Relaxation

It is important to get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least 2-4 weeks after the surgery. This will help to minimise swelling and promote healing.

RELATED: How to Sleep Better After Facelift Surgery

Follow-up Visits

You will have several follow-up visits with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions and monitor your recovery.

Final Result

The final result of the facelift procedure will not be immediately visible, as it can take several weeks for the swelling and bruising to subside. It will be visible around 2-3 months after the procedure.

RELATED: Exercise after Facelift Surgery – top tips

With any cosmetic surgery procedure, there is always the potential for complications, whether minor or major in nature. At Centre for Surgery, our facelift surgeons take extra precautions to keep the risk of complications as low as possible. Despite this, it is still very important to know the range of potential complications that could occur with facelift surgery.

Potential risks of facelift surgery

Postoperative haematoma

A haematoma is a collection of organised blood clots beneath the skin. A haematoma after facelift surgery is one of the most common complications after facelift surgery and usually arises early, often within 24 hours after surgery. If a haematoma is suspected, your surgeon will assess you urgently to decide the best course of action. In the clinic, most haematomas can be removed with a simple needle and syringe. Some haematomas will require surgical removal under local anaesthetic.

Surgical site infection (SSI)

SSIs are always a potential risk after any surgical procedure. Bacteria can enter wounds through small entry points, leading to a localised infection. Clinical features of infection include redness, swelling, heat and pain in the affected area. SSIs need treatment with a course of antibiotics.

Nerve injury

During the undermining of the skin flap, the nerves of the face could be injured, leading to numbness, tingling or weakness of the affected facial muscles. Most nerve injuries are temporary in nature and often settle after a few months. A minority of nerve injuries are permanent in nature.

Scarring and hair loss

Scars from facelift surgery are hidden in the natural hairline and skin folds. In some people, hypertrophic scarring can develop. Thickened scars can lead to either temporary or permanent hair loss in the region of the incision lines. Injection of steroids and or hair transplantation can address this issue effectively.

Skin necrosis

Skin necrosis refers to the death of the skin flap due to an insufficient blood supply to the area. Skin necrosis is a rare complication of facelift surgery, but the risk increases in patients who smoke.

Many potential complications of facelift surgery can be effectively managed with meticulous postoperative care. Our postoperative support programme was described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC. At your consultation, it is important to understand all the potential risks and complications of facelift surgery. Please take care to follow all of the surgeon’s pre- and post-operative instructions to maximise the chances of successful healing.

Pixie Ear Deformity

The importance of making precise incisions for facelift surgery cannot be emphasised enough when it comes to preventing an unnatural look on the earlobe, also known as a pixie ear deformity. The pixie ear deformity develops as a result of inaccurate correction of the earlobe after the re-draping of the facial skin. Often, earlobe distortion develops from excessive traction being placed on the earlobe. The stretched earlobe extends downwards, a tell-tale sign of recent facelift surgery. It is commonly associated with older methods of performing facelift surgery, with much of the tension being placed on the skin rather than the deeper soft tissue layers. Our skilled plastic surgeons avoid this unnatural appearance with modern techniques for performing facelift surgery.

There are several factors that will determine the overall cost of the facelift procedure, and the final quotation will be given after your face-to-face consultation with your specialist plastic surgeon.

While a facelift can provide significant improvement on its own, it can also be combined with other procedures to enhance the overall results. Some of the most common procedures that can be combined with a facelift include:

Neck Lift

This procedure can address wrinkles, sagging skin, and excess fat in the neck area. It can also be used to tighten the muscles in the neck and improve the appearance of the jawline.

Chin & Neck Liposuction

This procedure can be used to remove excess fat in the face and neck area. It can also be used to contour the face and improve the appearance of the jawline.

Fat Grafting

This procedure can be used to add volume to the face, particularly to the cheeks, lips, and temples.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

This procedure can address wrinkles, puffiness, and sagging skin around the eyes. It can also remove excess fat and skin from the upper and lower eyelids to improve the appearance of the eyes.

Brow Lift (Forehead Lift)

This procedure can address wrinkles and sagging skin on the forehead and can also reposition the eyebrows to a more youthful position.

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

This procedure can be used to reshape the nose and improve its overall appearance. It can also be used to address breathing problems caused by structural abnormalities in the nose.

Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

This procedure can be used to reshape the ears and make them less prominent.

Centre for Surgery is a premier destination for facelift procedures in London, providing a combination of expert surgical skills, patient-centred care, and state-of-the-art facilities. Our clinic is renowned for delivering tailored treatments that align with each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals.

What is included in my facelift treatment package?

• As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the procedure is right for you
• Enhanced same-day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home
• 24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for the first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team
• Your very own dedicated patient coordinator
• In-depth preoperative medical assessment to make sure you are fully fit for the rhinoplasty procedure
• Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care are described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, with regular telephone and face-to-face checks by our expert postoperative support team.

Exceptional Expertise and Personalised Care

Our team of highly skilled surgeons is dedicated to offering the highest standards of care. We understand that each patient’s journey is unique, and we strive to provide a comfortable, supportive environment from consultation through to recovery.

RELATED: Is a facelift worth it?

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Located at 95-97 Baker Street, London, our clinic is equipped with the latest technology and adheres to stringent safety protocols, ensuring that your procedure is performed in a safe, welcoming environment.

Patient Testimonials:

1. “My experience at Centre for Surgery was nothing short of exceptional. From the warm welcome at reception to the expert care I received from my surgeon, every step of my facelift journey was handled with utmost professionalism and care.” – Jane S.
2. “Choosing Centre for Surgery for my facelift was the best decision I made. The results are natural and exceeded my expectations. The staff were incredibly supportive throughout the process.” – Michael T.
3. “The level of attention and care I received at Centre for Surgery was remarkable. The team made sure I was fully informed and comfortable at every stage of my facelift procedure.” – Sarah L.

Comprehensive Support and Information:

• Visit our About Us page for more insights into our philosophy and approach.
• Explore our Plastic Surgery Blog for detailed information and insights into facelift procedures and other treatments.
• Our Clinic FAQs provide answers to common questions about procedures, preparation, and aftercare.
• Learn more about our Baker Street Clinic and the exceptional facilities we offer.

Flexible Finance Options

We understand that financial considerations are important. Discover our finance options, including 0% APR with Chrysalis Finance, to make your journey to a rejuvenated appearance more accessible. Find out more about our finance options here.

Book Your Consultation

To start your journey with Centre for Surgery, or for more personalised information, please don’t hesitate to contact us:

• 📞 Phone: 0207 993 4849
• 📧 Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
• 📍 Address: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN
• Contact us to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a refreshed and youthful appearance.

Essential Steps to Take Before Your Consultation

Conduct Thorough Research

• Read a procedure guide to gain further insight into your surgery
• Visit our website to learn more about the specific procedure you’re interested in

Is a Medical Referral Necessary for a Consultation at Our Clinic?

• A medical referral is helpful, but not required, for purely cosmetic consultations.
• If you seek a consultation for medical reasons and have private insurance, please obtain a referral from your GP or specialist.

Maximising the Benefits of Your Consultation

• Arrive a little early for your in-person consultation
• Feel free to bring a friend or family member to assist you in processing information and discussing your options
• Be prepared to undress for a physical examination; wear simple clothing
• Take detailed notes during the consultation and carefully review all provided documents

Seeking More Information Before Scheduling a Consultation?

• Learn more about pricing, medical payment plans, and financing your surgery.
• Request additional information about the procedure – call or contact us

Booking Your Consultation

• Secure your initial consultation by prepaying the £100 cosmetic consultation fee when scheduling your appointment.

ARRANGE A PHONE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

• To arrange a surgeon consultation at our Baker Street clinic, contact us or call on 0207 993 4849

For more information, email us: contact@centreforsurgery.com