A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to reposition and tighten facial soft tissue structures in order to restore a more youthful facial contour. The technique focuses on manipulation of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer in accordance with anatomical principles, allowing for long-lasting and natural-looking results.

Incisions are typically made along the hairline and behind the ears, following natural skin creases to minimize visible scarring. The approach and surgical plan are carefully assessed and customized by the surgeon based on individual anatomy and aesthetic goals.

This procedure may also be combined with adjunctive treatments such as dermal filler injections or botulinum toxin administration, depending on the clinical judgment of the physician and the patient’s specific needs.

Facelift Program (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift procedures can be performed in multiple areas of the face. The surgeon will assess individual concerns to determine the most appropriate technique. The face is generally divided into four main regions:

1. Forehead Lift
Addresses the forehead and glabellar lines, including wrinkles, folds, or sagging skin. Suitable for: Those with brow ptosis, deep frown lines, or forehead skin laxity.

2. Upper Facelift / Temporal Lift
Repositions soft tissue around the lateral forehead, brows, and outer eyes. Suitable for: Individuals with sagging outer eyes, lateral brow droop, or changes in brow shape.

3. Midface & Lower Facelift
Targets the cheeks, nasolabial folds, oral commissures, jawline, and jowls. Suitable for: Those seeking enhanced contour in the midface and lower face.

4. Neck Lift
Treats the neck and submental area with sagging skin or creases. Suitable for: Individuals with a “turkey neck” appearance or poor neck-jawline definition.

Key Advantages of SMAS Layer Facelift: 

Deeper tightening: The SMAS layer lies beneath the skin and provides strong support. Lifting this layer anchors the face to a firm structure, resulting in a natural and long-lasting effect.
Effective wrinkle correction: It reduces sagging in the cheeks, jawline, chin, and neck by lifting both muscle and soft tissue, producing clear firming results.
Lower risk of over-tightening: Because the lift targets the SMAS rather than just the skin, the skin is not pulled too tightly, avoiding an unnatural appearance.

Mini Facelift Procedure:
Ideal for patients with mild sagging around the nasolabial folds. Small incisions are made on both sides, from the temple down to the upper ear. The tissue beneath the skin is dissected to the lower face at the SMAS layer. The SMAS is lifted and secured, skin excess is removed, and the wound is closed with hidden-scar techniques.  Full Facelift

Procedure and Incisions:
Suitable for patients with generalized facial sagging. Incisions are made on both sides near the ears and around the tragus. The skin and deep tissue, including the SMAS, are dissected and lifted. Excess skin is removed, then the incisions are closed using scar-concealing methods.