RHYTIDECTOMY
FACELIFT
A facelift — or rhytidectomy — remains the gold standard for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. No injectable or non-surgical treatment can replicate the lasting, natural results achieved by repositioning the deeper structural layers of the face. If you are bothered by sagging cheeks, deepening nasolabial folds, jowling along the jawline, or general facial laxity that makes you look older than you feel, a facelift can restore a refreshed, naturally youthful appearance that lasts for years. Turkey's plastic surgeons are internationally recognised for their expertise in modern facelift techniques, welcoming thousands of patients from Europe and beyond.
Istanbul has positioned itself as one of the world's leading centres for facial plastic surgery, with facelift procedures performed to the highest international standards. Turkish plastic surgeons are proficient in advanced techniques including the SMAS facelift, deep plane facelift, and composite facelift — procedures that address not just skin but the underlying facial architecture. International patients benefit from a fully managed experience, from pre-operative planning to post-operative support, coordinated by a dedicated team that understands the needs of those travelling from abroad.
A facelift is a surgical procedure that addresses laxity in the mid-face, lower face, and neck by lifting and repositioning the underlying SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer — the structural foundation of the face — before removing excess skin. Unlike procedures that simply pull the skin, modern facelift techniques work on the deeper layers to produce natural, long-lasting results without the 'operated' look. Incisions are carefully concealed within the hairline and natural creases around the ears. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately 3–5 hours. Patients typically stay in hospital for one night and require a recovery period of 2–3 weeks before returning to social activities, with final results fully visible after 3–6 months as swelling resolves.
AM I THE RIGHT CANDIDATE?
• You have moderate to significant facial sagging, jowling, or deep folds that non-surgical treatments can no longer adequately address.
• You are in good general health, with no uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions or clotting disorders.
• You have good skin elasticity and sufficient facial bone structure to support optimal results.
• You have realistic expectations — seeking natural rejuvenation rather than a dramatic or altered appearance.
BENEFITS OF FACELIFT
• Comprehensive rejuvenation: Addresses the mid-face, jowls, and jawline simultaneously for a harmonious, refreshed result.
• Natural, long-lasting outcome: By working on deeper structures, modern techniques deliver results that look natural and last 8–12 years.
• Improved jaw definition: Lifting the SMAS layer restores a cleaner, more defined jawline and reduces jowling.
• Renewed confidence: Patients consistently report that facelift results align their outer appearance with how they feel inside.
HOW DO WE PROCEED?
Step 1 — Online Consultation: Share frontal and profile photos along with your concerns. Our surgeon will assess your facial anatomy and recommend the most suitable technique within 24–48 hours.
Step 2 — Treatment Plan & Quote: A personalised surgical plan is prepared, detailing technique, whether combination procedures are advisable, and a full cost breakdown.
Step 3 — Travel Arrangements: Our coordinator arranges hotel accommodation and airport transfers to ensure a comfortable arrival in Istanbul.
Step 4 — Pre-operative Assessment: Blood tests, cardiovascular clearance, and a detailed face-to-face surgical consultation are completed on your first day.
Step 5 — Surgery & Hospital Stay: Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. You remain in hospital for one night under nursing supervision before moving to your hotel.
Step 6 — Follow-up & Aftercare: A thorough post-operative check is carried out before your departure. Drains and sutures are removed during your stay, and ongoing support is provided remotely.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the difference between a mini facelift and a full facelift?
A mini facelift uses shorter incisions and addresses early to moderate laxity, primarily along the jawline. A full facelift provides more comprehensive correction of the mid-face, lower face, and jawline. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate option based on your anatomy and goals.
2. What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift releases and repositions the deeper facial structures beyond the SMAS layer, allowing for more significant lifting of the mid-face and nasolabial folds. It is considered one of the most advanced techniques and produces very natural, long-lasting results.
3. Will I look 'pulled' or unnatural?
Modern facelift techniques focus on repositioning deeper layers rather than simply tightening the skin. When performed by an experienced surgeon, results should look refreshed and natural, not taut or operated.
4. How long is the recovery?
Most patients feel comfortable returning to social activities after 2–3 weeks. Significant swelling resolves within 4–6 weeks, and final results are visible at 3–6 months.
5. Are the scars visible?
Incisions are carefully placed within the hairline and in the natural folds around the ears. Scars become virtually imperceptible within a few months and are not visible in everyday social settings.
6. Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Facelift is frequently combined with neck lift, blepharoplasty, brow lift, and fat grafting for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Combination procedures are planned during your consultation.
7. How long do facelift results last?
Most patients enjoy their results for 8–12 years. The ageing process continues, but patients typically look consistently younger than they would have without the procedure.
8. How do I prepare for surgery?
Avoid blood-thinning medications in the weeks before surgery. Detailed preparation instructions are provided following your consultation.
9. What is the minimum age for a facelift?
There is no strict minimum age. Most patients are in their 40s to 60s, but a facelift may be appropriate earlier for those with significant premature facial laxity. Candidacy is assessed individually.
10. How do I get started?
Complete the contact form below or message us on WhatsApp with frontal and profile photos. Our team will respond with a personalised surgical assessment within 24–48 hours.
DOCTOR'S NOTE A facelift is the most complex and rewarding procedure I perform. It demands not only technical precision but a deep understanding of facial anatomy and the ageing process — and, perhaps most importantly, the artistic judgment to know what to do and what to leave alone. My philosophy is always to restore, never to overcorrect. The goal is not to erase the story of a person's face, but to turn back the clock in a way that feels entirely natural to them and to everyone around them. I spend a significant amount of time at consultation understanding what each patient actually sees in the mirror and what they hope for. Often, a thoughtful conversation reveals that what they need is different from what they initially assumed. I believe that kind of honesty is fundamental to a good outcome — and to a good doctor-patient relationship. I look forward to meeting you.