Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)
Facelift surgery (Rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic procedure that creates a younger facial appearance. This procedure can reduce sagging or folding skin on the cheeks and jawline and any changes that result from aging. Some cases may require combining the face, eye, and neck to create the overall facial appearance. It is expected that face and neck procedures, such as deep muscle tightening, fat transfer, facial bone augmentation, and facial bone contouring, will be combined to achieve the desired youthful look.
Kamol Cosmetic Hospital Bangkok offers Facelift and associated procedures. Someone may require one or more procedures, as follows:
- Mini-facelift / Mid facelift Skin
- Full Facelift with SMAS
- Mid Facelift by synthetic absorbable materials
- Neck lift and Neck tuck
- Forehead lift / Browlift
- Restoration of facial fat with fat transfer
A Good Candidate for Facelift
- Aging face
- Healthy for under sedation or general anesthesia
- Positive outlook and realistic expectations
Preparation for Facelift Surgery
After consultations with the surgeons and agreeing to proceed with the surgery, the preparation of the facelift will be as the following steps;
- Stop smoking for at least two weeks before surgery
- Stop Aspirin or any medications that interfere with coagulation
- Physical examination and medical history. The surgeons will require the patient's medical records. Most patients aged 40 and above need to consult with medical doctors and cardiologists regarding any possibility of heart complications, as this will be necessary when administering anesthesia
- Facial examination and facial profile analysis
- Before the procedure, hair wash with germicidal soap
- Confirmation of expectations, as the patient should ask any questions they still have regarding the outcome of a facelift, such as an effect on fine wrinkles or symmetry of the face
Procedure for Facelift
This procedure requires general anesthesia, though sometimes local anesthesia and sedation are possible. A facelift procedure takes approximately 2-4 hours. As the face, eyes, and neck work together to create an overall facial appearance, it usually combines face and neck procedures to achieve each person's goals.
At Kamol Cosmetic Hospital, we offer six facelifts and associated procedures for those who seek to restore youthfulness to their appearance.
1. Mini- facelift / Mid facelift
This procedure involves two incisions; the first is a simple skin incision at the temporal hairline, down to the front of the ears, and ends at the earlobe. It is a standard facelift procedure that is still in use today. This operation tightens excess skin and relies entirely on tension to shift the underlying facial soft tissue. The second incision is near the lower eyelash. In this area, the excess skin will be reduced to balance for lifting and tightening the cheek muscles. This procedure suits patients with excess skin and minimal deep, soft skin ptosis.
This procedure takes around 2 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
Picture1. Shows Mini-facelift / Mid facelift
2. Full Facelift with SMAS
Our plastic surgeons perform the subcutaneous Facelift with a separate SMAS Flap and SMAS-ectomy. The incision starts from the temporal hairline, down to the front of the ears, and ends behind the ears. Then, the SMAS is pulled upward and backward as tightly as possible. Underlying muscles might tighten, and subcutaneous soft tissue and skin will move following the SMAS flap. The skin is then resected to remove the excess skin. This facelift surgery is a more effective technique with longer-lasting results.
This procedure is suitable for patients who have a lot of excesses and sagging skin facial muscle ptosis to remove and restore a smoother, firmer, and more youthful appearance to their face.
This procedure takes around 3-4 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
Picture 2.Shows facelift by "Deep tissue technique with SMASectomy."
3. Facelift with synthetic absorbable materials
We provide a facelift by deep muscle suspension with synthetic absorbable ribbon (Endotine®). The incision is in front of the ear up to the temporal area. Endotine® will be absorbable within six months. This procedure can enhance cheek volume and projection for a natural, rejuvenated look. The patient may feel some discomfort a few months after surgery.
This procedure suits patients with midface (inner face) ptosis or who need more cheek volume and minimal ptosis of deep, soft skin.
This procedure takes around 2 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
Picture 3. Facelift by deep muscle suspension with synthetic absorbable materials (Endotine)
4. Neck Lift / Neck Tuck
This procedure helps someone with a thick, wrinkled, or sagging neck. The surgeons will perform one or both methods together. Neck tuck is a procedure in which the surgeon makes a small incision under the chin-neck line and carefully lifts and tightens loose neck muscles (Platysmaplasty). An incision of a neck lift is behind each ear, and a longer incision may also be made to stretch the neck muscle by SMAS. And underlying tissues and remove excess, sagging skin to restore a smoother, firmer, and more youthful appearance to the neck. This procedure is usually performed with a complete facelift.
This procedure takes around 2-4 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
Picture 4. Shows neck lift and neck tuck procedures
5. Forehead lift/ Browlift
A brow lift is repositioning an eyebrow to achieve a more youthful appearance. The incision scar is behind the hairline by 1-2 cm. There are three types of brow lift as follows:
- An endoscopic brow lift, which results in a minimal scar
- A temporal or limited brow lift, where incisions are at the temporal area, both correct and left
- The classic brow lift, where a long incision is made horizontally behind the hairline. (See More)
6. Facial restoration with fat transfer.
Fat transfer as a micrograft or nano-graft supports particular areas that need contouring and fulfillment. This procedure is suitable for patients with a slimmer face and loose fat who have undergone facelift surgery with unsatisfactory results due to the lack of volume. Some patients may need more procedures to achieve a desired youthful look. Experienced surgeons can recommend the best options, though the final decision remains at the patient's
discretion.
This procedure takes around 1-2 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
Picture 5 shows the areas of facial fat transfer
Postoperative Care for Facelift
- Keep the face elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling
- Gentle movement to support blood circulation
- Wear a compression bandage at all times for the first three days and then at home while sleeping for one month
- Avoid aggressive or strenuous activities for one month after surgery
- Stop smoking or drinking alcohol for at least two weeks after surgery
- Sutures are removed around 5-10 days after surgery
- Keep any follow-up appointments with your surgeon to check the healing process and ask any questions that may concern you
- Follow all postoperative instructions and attend all postoperative appointments
Risks and Complications for Facelift Surgery
Facelift complications will be managed with the proper care, medication, or surgical correction. The risks include:
- Postoperative hematoma under the skin
- Scarring. Incision scars from a facelift are permanent but typically will be hidden under the hair. It is rare for the incision to become a red, raised scar. Injection of steroids or other treatments will be used to improve the appearance.
- Nerve injury and sensory nerve damage, although the effects are self-limiting, usually recover within 6-12 months.
- Skin loss, though very rare, could still happen. Facelift surgery may interrupt the blood supply, possibly resulting in partial skin necrosis and delayed healing.
- The other risks and complications are similar to those of other major surgeries, including side effects from anesthesia. Lifestyle and preexisting medical conditions may increase risks.
Recovery from Facelift Surgery
- After surgery for a few days, Bruising, swelling, hypersensitivity, and numbness will make you uncomfortable.
- The face and neck will improve after a few weeks, and then a gentle massage will be begun to stimulate the nerve and lymphatic drainage to reduce swelling and recovery period.
- You can return to work 14 days after surgery, but some swelling may still occur.
- You start exercise four weeks after surgery.
- The final result takes 6 – 12 months.
Getting to Know for Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)
Endotine Lift
An Endotine Lift is a type of minimally invasive facelift procedure that uses small,...
Neck Tuck / Neck Lift
A neck lift, also known as a neck tuck, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to...
Understanding SMAS Technique
A SMAS facelift technique is a surgical procedure that targets the deeper layers...
Before & After of Facelift / Neck Lift
Reviews of Facelift Surgery
Video: Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)
Why is Kamol Cosmetic Hospital famous for Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)?
The appearance of the face is often the first impression people make, and maintaining a youthful and refreshed look is important for many individuals. Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a popular procedure for those seeking to restore a more youthful appearance to the face.
Kamol Cosmetic Hospital is known for its expertise in facelift surgery, with a team of talented and experienced surgeons led by Dr. Kamol Pansritum. Our surgeons will analyze the face and individual facial features, considering proportion, angle, and aesthetics to create a personalized and harmonious outcome.
At Kamol Hospital, we are proud to have a modern and well-equipped facility accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a prestigious global healthcare organization. Our team of professionals, including plastic surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, and dentists, works together to ensure the safety, security, and privacy of every patient.
With a track record of consistently good results and satisfied clients, Kamol Cosmetic Hospital has become a top destination for facelift surgery. Whether you want to restore a youthful appearance or enhance your overall look, we are here to help you achieve your goals.
Why Thailand is a plastic surgery destination?
Thailand is a top destination for plastic and cosmetic surgery. The surgeons' high-quality specialist skills, first-class hospital treatments, and affordable cost add up to a satisfying package. There is also the temptation to recover post-procedure in luxury hotels or recovery service apartments.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Facelift and neck lift procedures are surgical procedures that are designed to improve the appearance of the face and neck by lifting and tightening any sagging skin, removing excess fat, and smoothing out wrinkles.
These procedures can help you restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance by addressing the signs of aging, such as sagging jowls, drooping eyelids, and a sagging neck.
A: Facelift and neck lift procedures offer individuals a great many benefits, such as:
- A more youthful appearance: Restore a more lifted and youthful look to the face and neck.
- Reduced wrinkles and lines: Smooth out wrinkles and fine lines for a more youthful complexion.
- Improved facial contour: Define the jawline and cheekbones for a more sculpted appearance.
- Tighter, firmer skin: Eliminate excess skin and tighten the underlying tissues for a smoother, more toned look.
- Improved neck definition: Address sagging skin and excess fat in the neck area for a more defined and youthful neck.
- Enhanced self-confidence: Feel more confident and comfortable with your appearance.
A: Ideal candidates for the procedures are typically:
- In good overall health.
- Non-smokers.
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure.
- Have moderate to severe signs of aging in the face and neck
Before making any final decisions, please schedule your consultation with one of our qualified plastic surgeons and they will assess your individual needs and determine if a facelift or neck lift is suitable for you.
A: There are several types of facelift and neck lift procedures, each with its own approach and benefits:
- Traditional facelift: This involves longer incisions around the ears and hairline to lift and tighten the skin and muscles of the face and neck.
- Mini facelift: This is a less extensive procedure with shorter incisions and is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate sagging.
- Mid-face lift: This focuses on lifting and tightening the mid-face area, including the cheeks and cheekbones.
- Neck lift: This addresses sagging skin and excess fat in the neck area, thus creating a more defined and youthful neck.
A: Facelift and neck lift procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon will:
- Make incisions in the designated areas.
- Lift and tighten the underlying muscles and tissues.
- Remove excess skin and fat.
- Redistribute fat or tissue grafts to create a more balanced and youthful appearance.
- Close the incisions with sutures.
The procedures usually take several hours to complete.
A: After a facelift and neck lift, you can expect the following:
- Some swelling and bruising, which is normal and will eventually subside with time.
- Mild pain and discomfort, which can be managed with medication.
- Drains to remove excess fluid.
- You will wear bandages or dressings to protect the incisions.
- Limited activity for several weeks.
Rest assured you can return to work and some light activities within a few weeks after the procedure, however, a complete recovery may take several months.
A: Scars are an inevitable aspect of any surgical procedure, however, our surgeons at Kamol Cosmetic Hospital will use only the most advanced techniques and aim to minimize scarring by placing the incisions in discreet locations.
Over time, the scars will fade and become less noticeable.
A: You might experience a little discomfort and some soreness after your surgery, however, this can be managed with pain medication. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative care to help you throughout your recovery.
A: Both facelift and neck lift effects are typically long-lasting, but aging will continue to take its toll. For optimal results, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, and using sunscreen can help prolong the results of your surgery.
A: Generally, these surgeries are not covered by insurance providers. However, in some cases, where these procedures are medically necessary, you may be covered. Check with your insurance company in advance, just in case.
A: Kamol Cosmetic Hospital is a world-leading provider of cosmetic surgery in Bangkok, Thailand. We offer:
- Experienced cosmetic surgeons: Our skilled surgeons are experts in facial plastic surgery techniques with a proven track record of successful and satisfying outcomes.
- Superior facilities: Our hospital is kitted out with advanced technology and we will provide you with a safe and comfortable environment for your cosmetic surgery.
- Personalized care and attention: Each treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and aesthetic goals.
- Comprehensive aftercare: We will provide you with thorough post-operative care and support in order to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
- Excellent reputation: We are wholeheartedly committed to patient satisfaction and delivering natural-looking, beautiful results.
A: The cost of your procedure will vary depending on the type of procedure being performed, the extent of the surgery itself, and a number of other individual factors.
Our team will provide you with a personalized quote during your consultation.
A: Scheduling a consultation with us is quick and painless. Either give us a direct call or contact us via email and we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.