Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and tightens the underlying tissues in the face and neck. This procedure can address signs of ageing such as descending skin, wrinkles, jowls, and skin folds. When considering this procedure, there is a wide range of facelift types to choose from.
Understanding the different types of facelifts is crucial for patients to make informed decisions about their treatment options.
Suitable Candidates for Facelift
Suitable candidates for the procedure are individuals looking to address visible signs of ageing in the face, such as descending skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and volume loss. In addition, the candidates must be in good overall health, have realistic expectations about what the procedure can and cannot achieve, be non-smokers or be willing to quit smoking before and after the procedure, and be willing to adhere to post-surgical instructions.
Before undergoing any type of facelift, it is essential for candidates to undergo a thorough evaluation by a specialist plastic surgeon to determine their suitability for the procedure.
Facelift Types
The common types of facelifts are the following:
- Traditional Facelift: Also known as SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) lift, this procedure involves creating surgical incisions along the hairline, extending around the ears to access the underlying SMAS layer, which is a network of tissues that provide facial support. In some cases, the incision can be extended into the scalp depending on the patient’s skin concern and recommendations of the surgeon. The surgeon then separates the skin from the underlying tissues and tightens the muscles and other supporting structures of the face and neck. Depending on the surgeon’s preference, excess fat and skin can be removed from the neck and jowls. A traditional facelift is suitable for patients who want to address moderate to significant signs of facial ageing.
- Mini Facelift: Also known as a limited-incision facelift or short-scar facelift, it targets signs of ageing on the lower face and neck area. It’s a less extensive surgery compared to a traditional facelift and is suitable for patients with mild to moderate signs of ageing. During the procedure, the surgeon creates shorter incisions around the ears or along the hairline. Excess skin is removed through these incisions and the remaining skin is lifted and repositioned.
- Deep Plane Facelift: This surgical procedure is performed to address more advanced signs of facial ageing in the mid-face, lower face, and neck. It involves repositioning the deeper layers of tissue of the face, including the SMAS layer and underlying muscles. Unlike traditional facelifts, it addresses a broader area of the face because it allows access and manipulation of the deeper tissue planes.
- Thread Lift: This technique is less extensive compared to other facelift types as it uses dissolvable sutures or threads to lift and reposition the descending tissues of the face. During the procedure, the threads are inserted into the skin using a needle or cannula. The surgeon then pulls the thread gently to lift and tighten the facial skin.
- Mid-Facelift: Also known as a cheek lift, this surgical procedure targets signs of ageing in the middle region of the face, including the cheeks and under-eye area. It can address volume loss in the cheeks and under-eye area as well as nasolabial folds. During the procedure, the surgeon creates incisions near the temples or within the hairline. Through these incisions, the surgeon repositions and lifts the underlying tissues of the cheeks.
Each type of facelift has its unique advantages and considerations. At Aesthetic Edge in Sydney, our specialist plastic surgeons, Dr Jeremy Hunt and Dr Maryam Seyedabadi, will first assess the patient’s aesthetic goals and anatomical characteristics to determine the most appropriate approach for individual needs and expectations.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery time from a facelift procedure will depend on several factors, such as the type of facelift, the extent of the procedure, the patient’s health and age, preoperative preparation, adherence to post-surgical instructions, and individual healing response.
After the surgery, patients will likely experience bruising, swelling, and discomfort. To reduce swelling, patients should keep their heads elevated (30-45 degrees) when sleeping or resting. Cold compresses can also be applied to the treated area to minimise discomfort and swelling.
Swelling and bruising may peak during the first few days. After a week, they will gradually resolve. During this time, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise and other activities that put pressure on the muscles of the face. Patients are also advised to wear the compression garment religiously to support the facial tissues and reduce post-surgical swelling. While most of the initial swelling and bruising should disappear after a few weeks, patients will need to wait several months to see the final results of the facelift procedure.
Throughout the recovery process, it is important to adhere to the post-surgical instructions and attend regular follow-up appointments.
Reasons to Choose Aesthetic Edge Clinic for Facelift Surgery in Sydney
During the consultation at Aesthetic Edge, our specialist plastic surgeons in Sydney will determine the most appropriate type of facelift for each patient based on several factors. This includes the patient’s facial anatomy, the extent and severity of volume loss and skin wrinkling, aesthetic goals, and overall health condition. In addition, our surgeons will also assess other factors, such as skin laxity and elasticity, as well as previous cosmetic procedures. They will also talk to the patient to know more about their expectations, preferences, and concerns regarding different facelift types. Furthermore, they will provide complete information regarding the risks, complications, and limitations of facelift surgery in order for patients to make informed decisions regarding their treatment options.
Based on these assessments, our surgeons will recommend the most suitable type of facelift while taking into consideration the patient’s facial anatomy, aesthetic goals, and overall health status. They will customise the treatment plan so that it aligns with the goals and meet the individual needs of each patient.
Our specialist plastic surgeons, Dr Seyedabadi and Dr Hunt also prioritise continuity of care by maintaining open lines of communication between patients and the surgical team from the initial consultation through post-operative recovery and beyond. This allows monitoring of patient progress and provides an opportunity to make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Moreover, this also allows our surgeons to address any questions or concerns that the patient may have.
