Cosmetic Surgery
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There are two main categories of facelifts:
1.Surgical Facelifts – Traditional procedures that involve incisions, skin repositioning, and sometimes fat grafting or liposuction.
2.Non-Surgical Facelifts – Techniques such as the vampire facelift (PRP injections), thread lifts, and ultrasound-based treatments like Ultherapy that offer subtle lifting without surgery.
While facelifts can significantly enhance facial appearance, they are not suitable for everyone. The ideal candidates for facelift surgery typically meet the following criteria:
✅ Age Consideration – Most patients seeking a facelift are between 40 and 70 years old, although younger individuals in their 30s may benefit from a mini facelift, while older patients might require a more advanced treatments.
✅ Skin Laxity – Patients with moderate to severe skin sagging, deep wrinkles, or loose jowls are prime candidates. Mild cases may benefit from non-surgical treatments.
✅ Good Overall Health – Candidates should be in good medical condition, without serious underlying health issues that could impact healing.
✅ Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit – Smoking interferes with healing and increases the risk of complications. Patients are typically advised to quit at least 4–6 weeks before surgery.
✅ Realistic Expectations – A facelift can provide a more youthful and refreshed look, but it will not stop aging completely. Understanding the limitations and realistic outcomes is crucial.
Patients with minimal sagging or who primarily seek volume restoration may be better suited for dermal fillers or fat transfer procedures. Consulting with a board-certified surgeon can help determine the best approach for each individual.
Facelifts come in various forms, each targeting different areas and depths of the face. Below are the most common techniques:
A traditional facelift technique that lifts only the skin without altering deeper tissues. It primarily reduces surface wrinkles and improves skin laxity but does not significantly address deep structural sagging. Since the underlying muscle layer remains untouched, the results are typically more subtle and shorter-lasting than deeper facelift techniques.
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One of the most commonly performed facelift techniques, the SMAS facelift tightens both the skin and the deeper muscle layer (SMAS), offering more structural support and longer-lasting results. By repositioning the SMAS layer, this technique enhances facial contours and provides a more natural lift.
Unlike the SMAS facelift, the deep plane facelift lifts underneath the muscle layer rather than just tightening it. This allows for a more natural, comprehensive lift without creating a “pulled” appearance. The technique effectively repositions fat pads and deeper structures, improving both skin sagging and facial volume.
This advanced facelift technique lifts both the SMAS layer and underlying fat pads, providing enhanced volume and structure to the midface. It creates a balanced and harmonious rejuvenation by preventing an overly tight or hollowed-out look.
This technique targets deeper layers of tissue, providing a more natural and longer-lasting lift while minimizing surface scarring. It offers significant rejuvenation, particularly in the midface and neck, without excessive tension on the skin.
A mini facelift that requires shorter incisions, making it less invasive than traditional facelifts. It involves tightening the SMAS layer using sutures, rather than lifting and repositioning it, leading to a quicker recovery.
This technique lifts facial structures from the bone level, repositioning deep tissues for significant improvement in cheek volume and midface contours. Since it involves lifting deeper structures rather than just skin or muscle, it can create dramatic and long-lasting results.
As a plastic surgeon, I can tell you that each facelift technique varies in complexity, invasiveness, and recovery time. And every patient has unique needs and expectations. That’s why it’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable and safest option. Only through a personalized assessment can we achieve the best possible outcome.
Click here to find out if you need a facelift and, if so, which method is best for you, with one of our European and American Board-Certified surgeons at Vanity Cosmetic Surgery Hospital.
The least invasive facelift procedures are:
1. Thread lift:
Uses dissolvable sutures to lift the skin with minimal downtime.
2. Liquid facelift:
A combination of Botox and fillers to restore volume and lift without surgery.
3. Ultherapy or RF Microneedling:
Uses ultrasound or radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin over time.
However, keep in mind that these are not surgical procedures, and their results will not be as effective or long-lasting as surgical options. Again, I strongly recommend discussing your expectations in detail with your board-certified surgeon to determine the most suitable approach for you.
| Facelift Type | Best For | Recovery Time |
| Subcutaneous Facelift | Mild sagging, younger patients, early signs of aging. | 1-2 weeks |
| SMAS Facelift | Moderate sagging, jowls, patients seeking more structure. | 2-3 weeks |
| Deep Plane Facelift | Severe sagging, deep nasolabial folds, patients over 50. | 3-4 weeks |
| Composite Facelift | Sagging and volume loss, particularly in the midface. | 3-4 weeks |
| Deep Subcutaneous Facelift | Advanced aging signs, deep wrinkles, neck and midface sagging. | 3 weeks |
| MACS Facelift | Mild sagging, early aging signs, younger patients. | 1-2 weeks |
| Subperiosteal Facelift | Cheek volume loss, patients needing significant midface lifting. | 3-4 weeks |
This table provides a quick overview of the various facelift options, making it easier to compare their benefits, ideal candidates, and recovery timelines.
A facelift offers numerous advantages beyond just looking younger. Some of the most notable benefits include:
✅ Reduction of Wrinkles & Sagging Skin – Eliminates deep creases and tightens loose skin, creating a smoother appearance.
✅ Restoration of Youthful Facial Contours – Lifts sagging cheeks and improves jawline definition for a more sculpted look.
✅ Long-Lasting Results – Unlike fillers or Botox, which require frequent maintenance, a facelift provides results that can last 10–15 years.
✅ Improved Self-Confidence – Many patients report feeling more youthful and confident post-surgery, enhancing both personal and professional interactions.
✅ Customizable with Other Procedures – Facelifts are often combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), a neck lift, or Botox for enhanced results.
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A good preparation ensures a smooth procedure and optimal recovery. You can follow these basic and essential steps:
📌 Consult a Board-Certified Surgeon – Discuss your goals, medical history, and expected results. Get a personalized plan and understand risks.
📌 Medical Evaluations – Blood tests, heart assessments, and medication reviews may be required.
📌 Quit Smoking & Alcohol – Stop smoking 4–6 weeks before surgery to improve healing. Avoid alcohol 2–4 weeks prior to reducing swelling and bruising.
📌 Adjust Medications & Supplements – Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen), vitamin E, and herbal supplements that increase bleeding risks.
📌 Plan for Recovery – Arrange time off work, prepare easy meals, and have a caregiver assist you for at least 24–48 hours post-surgery.
📌 Optimize Skincare – Keep skin hydrated, apply SPF daily, and use vitamin C serums to promote healing and collagen production.
A facelift (rhytidectomy) restores a youthful look by tightening skin and repositioning facial tissues. The process includes:
🔹 Anesthesia – General anesthesia is highly recommended in most cases. But in rare cases, sedation can be administered based on the patient’s request and suitability.
🔹 Incisions – Typically hidden along the hairline, around the ears, or under the chin to minimize scarring.
🔹 Tissue Lifting & Sculpting – Muscles and skin are tightened, excess skin is removed, and facial contours are enhanced.
🔹 Closure & Bandaging – Sutures or dissolvable stitches are used, followed by protective bandages for healing support.
The placement and length of incisions vary based on the extent of correction needed. Surgeons take great care to minimize visible scarring by placing incisions in natural creases and along the hairline. Here’s what to expect:
✔ Typical incision locations:
✔ Closure techniques:
This careful incision process ensures a balanced and rejuvenated facial appearance while keeping scars as inconspicuous as possible.
Proper post-surgical care is essential for minimizing complications and achieving the best results. Below is a detailed recovery timeline and important aftercare tips.
✅ Day 1-3: Swelling and bruising peak. Pain management with prescribed medications.
✅ Day 4-7: Swelling begins to subside, and sutures may be removed. Patients should avoid strenuous activity.
✅ Gradual reduction of swelling and bruising.
✅ Patients may return to light activities after 2 weeks, but no heavy exercise for 4-6 weeks.
✅ Skincare routines (gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sunscreen application) can resume.
✅ Scar management with silicone gels or creams.
✅ Avoid direct sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation on healing skin.
✅ Follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
✅ By ensuring adequate protein intake for metabolic needs, supplementing with collagen, and undergoing non–surgical procedures that support skin quality, you can extend the longevity of the results.
✔ Sleep with Head Elevated – Reduces swelling; use extra pillows or a recliner.
✔ Cold Compress for Swelling – Apply ice packs gently for the first few days.
✔ Avoid Straining & Bending Over – Prevents pressure on incisions.
✔ Hydrate & Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods – Supports faster healing.
✔ Follow Doctor’s Instructions – Attend post-op checkups and take prescribed medications.
After a facelift procedure, the recovery process occurs in stages, with noticeable changes over time. While immediate results can be seen right after the surgery, the final outcome evolves as swelling and bruising subside. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect at each stage of the healing process:
| Timeframe | Expected Results |
| Immediate Results | Visible lifting and tightening with some swelling and bruising. Skin may feel tight. |
| One Month Post-Surgery | Most swelling subsides, and natural contours become visible. |
| Three to Six Months Post-Surgery | Full results are apparent as tissues settle and scars fade. |
| Long-Term Outlook | With proper care, facelift results last 10–15 years, maintaining a youthful, refreshed look. Adequate protein intake, collagen supplementation, and non-surgical skin treatments can prolong results. |
Facelifts are mostly safe, but like any surgical procedure, they carry a small amount of potential risks. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon significantly reduces these risks.
⚠ Hematoma (Blood Collection Under Skin) – Can be drained if needed.
⚠ Infection – Proper wound care and antibiotics prevent this.
⚠ Nerve Injury – Rare but may cause temporary weakness in facial expressions.
⚠ Unsatisfactory Results – Revision surgery can correct asymmetry or undercorrection.
Facelift costs vary significantly based on location, surgeon expertise, and procedure complexity.
Traveling to Turkey for a facelift can save between 50% – 80% on surgery costs compared to prices in Europe, Oceania, and North America. The cost of a facelift at Vanity Cosmetic Surgery Hospital in Turkey starts from $3,900. Whether you’re considering a facelift or another facial rejuvenation procedure, Vanity may be an excellent option for you for affordable, high-quality care, with its European and American Board certified surgeons.
| Country | Average Cost (USD) |
| USA | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| UK | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Vanity Cosmetic Surgery Hospital | $3,100 – $3,500 |
| Türkiye | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| Germany | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| Canada | $7,000 – $18,000 |
| Australia | $8,000 – $22,000 |
| Italy | $7,000 – $18,000 |
| France | $6,500 – $17,000 |
🌟 Affordable Prices – Costs are 50-80% lower than in the US or Europe.
🌟 High-Quality Care – Top clinics like Vanity Cosmetic Surgery Hospital offer internationally accredited surgeons.
🌟 All-Inclusive Packages – Many clinics provide hotel stays, transportation, and post-op care in the package.
🌟 Advanced Techniques – Turkish surgeons specialize in the latest facelift methods, ensuring natural results.
🌟Istanbul – A modern, historic and multi-cultural metropole. Capital of the Ottoman Empire for centuries. The second most visited city in the World in 2024. Visitors can easily find everything they need during their stay.
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As Vanity Cosmetic Surgery Hospital, we work with surgeons with international certificates so that you can trust us.
A well-performed facelift can last 10-15 years, depending on genetics and lifestyle.
A Cinderella facelift is a temporary, non-surgical procedure that uses dermal fillers, Botox, and sometimes radiofrequency treatments to lift and smooth the skin. It typically lasts for a few days to a couple of weeks, making it popular for special occasions.
Yes! Modern techniques focus on subtle lifting, avoiding an over-pulled appearance.
Most patients are between 40-70 years old, but mini facelifts are great for younger individuals.
Discomfort is mild to moderate. Pain medication helps in the first week.
Turkey: $3,500 – $6,500
USA: $10,000 – $25,000
No procedure stops aging, but results last a decade or longer.
A facelift typically lasts 7 to 15 years, depending on the technique used and how well a patient maintains their skin with skincare, a healthy lifestyle, and non-invasive treatments. While the procedure resets aging, the natural aging process continues.
The “20-minute facelift” refers to a non-surgical or minimally invasive procedure that provides a temporary lifting effect. It usually involves dermal fillers, Botox, or thread lifts to tighten and lift the skin without surgery. Results can last several months to a couple of years, depending on the method used.
A deep plane facelift is often considered the most natural-looking because it repositions deeper facial tissues rather than just pulling the skin. Unlike traditional facelifts, this technique minimizes a tight or “pulled” appearance, leading to smoother, more youthful results.
A 360 facelift is a comprehensive facial rejuvenation that addresses the entire face and neck rather than just one area. It often includes a facelift, neck lift, eyelid surgery, and fat grafting for a complete transformation.
Güray Yeşiladalı, M.D.
Güray Yeşiladalı M.D. is graduated from Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine. He won the Turkish-German Medical Association Scholarship and had the chance to study in Giessen University, Germany. He started his Plastic Surgery residency in Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital in Istanbul. Apart from performing thousands of plastic surgery operations, he was accepted as an International Fellow to Wisconsin University, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in United States, and had the chance to improve his surgical skills, experience and international communication abilities. He is the founder of Vanity Cosmetic Surgery hospital (2016).
Sandhya Pruthi, M.D., Face-lift, (2022, August 4).
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/face-lift/about/pac-20394059
Facelift (rhytidectomy), (2023, October 2).
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/cosmetic-surgery/facelift/
Casey, J. (2002, May 14). Erase Aging With a “Mid-Facelift”?
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/features/erase-aging-with-mid-facelift
Brazier, Y. (2017, March 10). Cosmetic surgery: What you should know.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/155757
