What is my goal in facelift surgery as Asst. Prof. Dr. Mert Ersan?
Over time, gravity, repetitive facial movements, decreased skin elasticity, and volume loss lead to sagging facial contours, a tired appearance, and diminished definition. My goal is to correct these changes in a way that respects the face’s natural anatomy—repositioning the tissues upward and outward to restore a more youthful, dynamic, and aesthetically pleasing appearance. I aim for results that are noticeable yet natural, preserving facial expressions without creating an artificial look.
Which techniques do I use in facelift surgery?
- Deep Plane Facelift: Preferred for patients with advanced sagging. This technique involves releasing and repositioning deeper tissue layers vertically and laterally to achieve more natural and longer-lasting results.
- Traditional SMAS Facelift: A long-lasting and effective technique that addresses the underlying muscular and fascial layers of the face, providing solid and durable rejuvenation.
- Mini Facelift: Ideal for younger patients with mild sagging. It involves shorter incisions and offers quicker recovery while still delivering visible improvement.
- Combined Facelift and Neck Lift: Treating the lower face and neck together provides a more balanced and harmonious rejuvenation.
Endoscopic Facelift May Be a Suitable Alternative for Select Patients (See: Endoscopic Facelift)
Each patient’s needs are unique. For those with less significant sagging, especially in the brow, temple, and midface regions, the endoscopic facelift may be an excellent minimally invasive option. Through small incisions hidden in the scalp, tissue lifting is performed using an endoscopic camera. This scarless approach offers natural but effective results. For more details, see: Endoscopic Facelift
Who is a good candidate?
- Individuals aged 40 and above
- Patients with noticeable sagging in the face and neck
- Those experiencing loss of skin elasticity and a tired facial expression
Surgical Process and Recovery
- Anesthesia: Performed under general anesthesia
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Hospital Stay: Usually requires one overnight stay
- Recovery: Return to social activities within 10–14 days on average
- Scarring: Incisions are hidden around the ears, within the scalp, and behind the ear if a neck lift is also performed
Which Procedures Can Be Combined with a Facelift?
Facelift surgery can be combined with various procedures to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation of the upper and lower face, as well as the neck:
- Endoscopic Facelift: Particularly effective for the upper and midface; offers scarless and natural results (See: Endoscopic Facelift)
- Neck Lift: Enhances the jawline and neck contour when performed alongside a facelift
- Fat Grafting: Adds volume to the forehead, chin, temples, and under-eye areas for smoother facial transitions
- Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty): Corrects drooping eyelids to restore a more rested and youthful look
- Lower Eyelid Surgery: Removes under-eye bags, shortens the lid-cheek junction, and provides smoother midface transitions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this surgery make me look unnatural?
No. When performed using the appropriate techniques and with respect for the facial anatomy, natural expressions are preserved and the results appear harmonious and authentic.
How long do the results last?
Although the aging process continues, the outcomes of a facelift typically remain effective for many years.
How is the cost determined?
Pricing is personalized and determined after a detailed consultation and facial assessment.
