A facelift, or rhytidectomy, restores a younger facial appearance by tightening sagging skin and the tissues beneath it. It addresses the changes that come with age — loose skin on the cheeks and jawline, deepening folds, and a softening jaw outline.
Because the face, eyes, and neck read as a single unit, a facelift is often combined with other procedures — deep muscle tightening, fat transfer, or facial bone work — to produce a result that looks balanced rather than isolated to one area.
Kamol Cosmetic Hospital offers six facelift and associated procedures. Depending on your anatomy and goals, you may need one or several:
- Mini-facelift / mid-facelift
- Full facelift with SMAS
- Mid-facelift with synthetic absorbable materials
- Neck lift and neck tuck
- Forehead lift / brow lift
- Facial fat restoration with fat transfer
A Good Candidate
- Visible sagging or loose skin in the face, jawline, or neck
- Reasonable skin elasticity, which supports a better and longer-lasting result
- In good enough general health for sedation or general anesthesia
- A non-smoker, or willing to stop before and after surgery
- A positive outlook and realistic expectations
Preparation
Once you’ve consulted with the surgeon and decided to proceed:
- Stop smoking for at least two weeks before surgery.
- Stop aspirin and any other medication that interferes with blood clotting.
- Complete a physical examination and provide your medical history. Patients aged 40 and above generally need clearance from a physician or cardiologist regarding any cardiac risk before anesthesia.
- Undergo a facial examination and profile analysis so the surgeon can plan the right combination of procedures.
- Wash your hair with germicidal soap before the procedure.
- Confirm your expectations. Ask any remaining questions — particularly about what a facelift will and won’t change, such as its effect on fine wrinkles or on facial symmetry.
The Procedures
A facelift is usually performed under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia with sedation is possible in some cases. The operation takes approximately 2–4 hours depending on which procedures are combined.
1. Mini-Facelift / Mid-Facelift
This uses two incisions. The first runs from the temporal hairline, down in front of the ears, ending at the earlobe — the standard facelift incision, still widely used. It tightens excess skin and relies on tension to reposition the soft tissue beneath. The second incision sits near the lower eyelash line, where excess skin is reduced to balance the lift and tighten the cheek.
Best suited to patients with excess skin but minimal deep tissue descent.
Takes around 2 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
2. Full Facelift with SMAS
Our surgeons perform a subcutaneous facelift with a separate SMAS flap and SMAS-ectomy. The incision runs from the temporal hairline, down in front of the ears, and finishes behind the ears. The SMAS layer is then drawn upward and backward and secured, with the underlying muscle tightened where needed; the soft tissue and skin follow the repositioned flap. Excess skin is then removed.
This is the more thorough technique, and its results last considerably longer.
Best suited to patients with significant loose or sagging skin and descent of the facial muscle layer.
Takes around 3–4 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
3. Mid-Facelift with Synthetic Absorbable Materials
This technique suspends the deep muscle layer using an absorbable synthetic ribbon (Endotine®), through an incision in front of the ear extending to the temporal area. The material absorbs fully within about six months, by which time the tissue has settled in its new position. It can also enhance cheek volume and projection for a naturally rejuvenated look.
Some patients notice mild discomfort at the fixation site for a few months after surgery, which resolves as the material absorbs.
Best suited to patients with midface descent, or who want more cheek volume with only minor deep tissue laxity.
Takes around 2 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
4. Neck Lift / Neck Tuck
For patients with a heavy, wrinkled, or sagging neck. The surgeon may perform one or both techniques together.
A neck tuck uses a small incision under the chin, through which loose neck muscles are lifted and tightened (platysmaplasty). A neck lift uses incisions behind each ear — sometimes extended — to tighten the neck muscle via the SMAS layer along with the underlying tissues, and to remove excess sagging skin.
Usually performed alongside a full facelift.
Takes around 2–4 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
5. Forehead Lift / Brow Lift
A brow lift repositions the eyebrows for a more open, youthful appearance, with the incision placed 1–2 cm behind the hairline. Three approaches are available:
- Endoscopic brow lift, which leaves minimal scarring
- Temporal or limited brow lift, with incisions at the temporal area on both the right and left sides
- Classic brow lift, using a longer horizontal incision behind the hairline
6. Facial Fat Restoration with Fat Transfer
Fat transfer, as a micrograft or nano-graft, restores volume to areas that have hollowed with age. It suits patients with a naturally slim face or significant volume loss, and those who have had a facelift elsewhere with a disappointing result because volume — not just laxity — was the underlying problem.
Some patients need more than one session to reach their goal. Our surgeons will recommend the best approach, though the final decision is always yours.
Takes around 1–2 hours under sedation or general anesthesia.
Post-operative Care
- 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
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.
Risks and Complications
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.
Before & After of Facelift / Neck Lift
Reviews of Facelift Surgery
Video: Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)
Why is Kamol Cosmetic Hospital famous for Facelift Surgery
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a facelift and neck lift?
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.
What are the benefits of a facelift and neck lift?
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.
Am I a good candidate?
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.
What are the different types of facelift and neck lift procedures?
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.
What can I expect during the procedures?
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.
Are there health conditions that increase the risk?
Yes. High blood pressure is the main risk factor for bleeding under the skin (hematoma) after a facelift, so it must be well controlled beforehand. Smoking reduces blood supply to the lifted skin and significantly raises the risk of poor healing or skin loss, which is why stopping at least two weeks before and after surgery is essential. Please tell your surgeon about any medical conditions and medications at consultation.
Does a facelift address drooping eyelids?
No — eyelid concerns are treated separately with blepharoplasty, and brow position with a brow lift. These are commonly combined with a facelift in one operation, since the eyes and brows contribute as much to a rested appearance as the lower face does.
Is facelift surgery in Bangkok, Thailand safe for international patients?
Yes. Kamol Cosmetic Hospital in Bangkok is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), the same standard many patients look for at home, with structured care around patient safety, security, and privacy throughout your stay in Thailand.
How long should I plan to stay in Bangkok for facelift recovery?
Plan to stay in Bangkok for around 10–14 days. This allows your stitches to be removed (usually 5–10 days after surgery) and gives your surgeon time to check that early swelling is settling before you fly. Thailand is one of Asia’s leading destinations for facial rejuvenation surgery, and Kamol Trip can arrange accommodation close to the hospital. Many patients use the same stay for eyelid surgery or a brow lift.
