Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

There are different types of facelifts, such as full face lift, lower or partial face lift, laser face lift, temporal face lifting, and composite rhytidectomy. The type of facelift you choose will affect the recovery time. Several other parameters can also impact the recovery time from a facelift, factors such as the extent of the surgery, the technique used, and the post-operative care. In general, it takes approximately 3 months to fully recover from a facelift. 

During a facelift procedure, also known as a rhytidectomy, the surgeon makes strategic incisions both behind and in front of the ears to minimize and conceal scarring. In some cases, these incisions may extend into the scalp. This allows access to the deeper facial layers, where the skin and soft tissues can be repositioned and lifted, restoring the underlying facial muscles to a more youthful state. This process may also include muscle tightening, and in some cases, liposuction of the neck may be performed to enhance the facelift's overall effect.

At New You, we understand that not everyone requires a full facelift, which is why we offer less invasive alternatives, such as the mini-facelift, micro-facelift or an isolated neck lift. These options can be discussed with your specialist facial surgeon, Arda Küçükgüven, for a tailored approach to your rejuvenation goals. He is one of the best face lift surgeons in the area and has extensive experience and expertise in performing various types of facelifts. 

Absolutely, achieving a natural-looking facelift is a primary focus at New You Harley Street. We understand the importance of achieving a natural-looking facelift. That's why we utilize the innovative Deep Plane technique, which focuses on manipulating a deeper layer beneath the surface of the facial skin known as the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) to create a more youthful face. Over time, the SMAS undergoes a descent and forward shift, instigating a notable transformation in the facial structure. The once youthful and heart-shaped face gradually transforms into a more mature and square-shaped appearance over time. Regaining the youthful heart shape necessitates a strategic adjustment in the positioning of the SMAS.

Traditional facelift methods often involve pulling the skin tight, which can lead to an unnatural, "pulled" appearance. However, the Deep Plane technique avoids this issue by working with the SMAS, the deeper layer of facial tissue that dictates the overall facial shape. By releasing the SMAS from its anchoring ligaments, we can allow it to move freely, creating a more natural, relaxed appearance.

Imagine your facial structure as a bed, with the skin representing the bed cover and the SMAS as the duvet beneath. Trying to lift the SMAS without releasing it from its anchoring ligaments would be like attempting to make a bed while someone is sitting on it - it simply won't work. The Deep Plane technique eliminates this problem, giving you the most natural-looking results possible.

A facelift is a complex and delicate procedure that requires a high level of skill, experience, and artistry from the surgeon. That is why you should choose a qualified and reputable plastic surgery face lift surgeon, who can provide you with the best face lift results possible.

At New You Harley Street, we are proud to have Arda Küçükgüven as our distinguished facial plastic surgeon, who performs all of our facelift procedures. He has received training at some of the world's most renowned craniofacial units and has authored scientific papers focused on anti-aging facial surgery and facial anatomy. His mastery as a facelift surgeon is unmatched making him the ideal choice for those who are contemplating facelift surgery.

A facelift can help you look younger and fresher. However, some people may worry that a facelift will leave them with visible and unsightly scars. Fortunately, this is not the case, as modern facelift techniques and technologies have minimized the scarring and made it virtually invisible.

While facelift surgery may result in some scarring, these scars are brief and discreetly positioned along the facial contours, at the front of the ear, beneath the earlobe, and within the crease behind the ear. These locations are chosen to blend in with the natural folds and creases of the skin, and to be easily concealed by the hair or makeup. The scars are also very thin and fine, and will fade over time, becoming barely noticeable. So you can rest assured that you aren’t left with any obvious scarring after a facelift.

Yes, absolutely! Many patients choose to combine their facelift with other procedures to achieve a more harmonious and balanced result. During your consultation, feel free to discuss your interests and goals with your surgeon, and they will advise you on the best options for your individual case.

Some popular combinations include pairing a facelift with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) to address sagging eyelids and improve the overall appearance of the eyes. Others may choose to combine their facelift with a brow lift to correct droopy eyebrows and forehead wrinkles. Still, others may opt for a combination of a facelift and neck lift to address loose skin and fat beneath the chin and jawline.

The amount of time you'll need to take off work following a facelift will depend on the type of work you do. If you have a desk job, you may be able to return to work as soon as the next day, while those with more physically demanding jobs may need to take more time off.

During the initial stages of recovery, you can expect some swelling and discomfort around the incision areas. However, this should subside within the first week or two. Most people are able to return to their normal activities, including work, after two weeks.

It's important to keep in mind that everyone's recovery process is different, and some people may require more time off than others. Your surgeon will provide you with personalized instructions and guidance throughout the recovery process to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.

The results of a facelift are not permanent, but they can last for an extended period. A facelift can reset the clock, so to speak, giving you a more youthful appearance. After the procedure, while the face will naturally undergo aging, it will do so from this refreshed starting point of rejuvenation. With proper care and maintenance, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, you can enjoy the benefits of your facelift for years to come.

Generally, your surgeon will advise you to wait for 48 hours before showering. This allows enough time for the incisions to heal properly and reduces the risk of complications. However, it's crucial to follow your surgeon's specific advice, as they may have specific requirements based on your individual case.

When showering, it's vital to be gentle around the face to prevent irritating the incisions or causing any damage to the delicate tissues. You should avoid using hot water, which can cause blood vessels to expand and lead to bleeding or bruising. Instead, use lukewarm water and a mild cleanser recommended by your surgeon.

Traditional facelift methods often involve pulling the skin tight, which can lead to an unnatural, "pulled" appearance. However, the Deep Plane technique avoids this issue by working with deeper layers of facial tissue that dictates the overall facial shape. Therefore, Deep Plane Facelifts tend to leave more natural, relaxed looking results.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved with a Deep Plane Facelift, but we will be able to address any of your concerns within your consultation, including how to limit the possibility of complications.