FACELIFT TECHNIQUES
A facelift procedure can be performed using three different techniques.
Classic Facelift
This method is generally preferred for individuals who have sagging in the cheeks, neck, and under-chin area, as well as wrinkles, looseness, or drooping of the cheek skin.
The surgery begins with an incision made along the temple, the front of the ear, and behind the ear. The skin in the temple, in front of the ear, and behind the ear is lifted. The loose underlying tissues are pulled upward, excess tissue is removed, and tightening is performed.
Excess skin on the cheeks is also removed, and the skin is tightened. The incisions are then closed with hidden sutures placed in accordance with surgical principles.
Since the incisions are made in front of and inside the ear, no noticeable scar is visible when viewed from the front.
Mini Facelift
This method is generally preferred for individuals who have wrinkles on the cheeks or sagging in the lower cheek area.
The surgery begins at the upper front boundary of the ear, proceeds downward along the front of the ear, and ends just in front of the earlobe. The skin in front of the ear is lifted. The loose underlying tissues are pulled upward, excess tissue is removed, and the skin of the cheeks is tightened.
The incisions are closed with hidden sutures in accordance with surgical principles. Because the incision is made only in front of the ear, the scar is virtually unnoticeable.
Endoscopic Facelift
If there is no significant wrinkling or excess skin and the problem is limited to sagging of the cheek tissues, the facelift can be performed using the endoscopic method. Compared to the classic facelift, the endoscopic facelift is more suitable for younger patients. It can even be performed on individuals in their 30s who simply desire a more refreshed and vibrant appearance.
This method is a newer technique compared to the traditional facelift. A 2 cm incision is made within the hair in the temple region. A camera is inserted through this incision. All tissues in the temple and cheek area are separated from the underlying bone. Once loosened, these tissues are elevated and secured in a lifted position.
The incisions are closed with hidden sutures. Because the cuts are small and the procedure involves minimal bleeding, the recovery period is shorter compared to a classic facelift.
Which Technique Should Be Used?
The appropriate technique is determined by evaluating the looseness and degree of sagging in the cheek tissues, as well as whether there is wrinkling or excess skin.
Facelift Operation & Recovery Process
A facelift is performed under general anesthesia in a fully equipped hospital. The procedure typically lasts 3–4 hours. Most patients stay in the hospital for one night.
After the surgery, the face remains wrapped with a light compression bandage for several days. Tightness, pain, bruising, swelling (edema), and numbness of the skin may occur. All of these are normal and expected parts of the healing process.
Severe pain is not typical and can be easily managed with standard pain medication. Swelling decreases rapidly during the first 7–10 days. The remaining mild swelling—which is not very noticeable—may take up to six months to completely resolve as the skin fully conforms to the underlying facial structure.
During the early weeks, as the swelling diminishes, the feeling of tightness and numbness on the skin also gradually disappears. Permanent numbness is rare. The duration of bruising varies depending on the individual’s sensitivity and may last up to 10 days in more delicate patients.
In endoscopic facelift procedures, bruising tends to be less pronounced.
Due to swelling and bruising immediately after surgery, your face may appear very different from your normal appearance. This is expected; as swelling and bruising subside—typically within 7–10 days—your natural facial contours begin to emerge.
