Facelift surgery

Basic information

As a person ages, their facial features change. Aging becomes visible through the loss of skin’s glow and firmness, and the sagging of subcutaneous tissue. Fat beneath the skin also diminishes with age.

As the skin loosens and the underlying tissue thins, facial features begin to droop. The facial shape shifts from oval to more square as the jawline softens. This results in the so-called “jowls,” which are difficult to conceal with cosmetics or fillers. The neck area and under the chin also begin to sag. The jaw contour fades, and the corners of the mouth may turn downward.

One of the most important starting points when planning a facelift is mental well-being. A new face does not guarantee a new life or the resolution of personal problems. A good outcome also requires a positive state of mind. While a facelift can enhance appearance and boost self-esteem, everything else depends on the individual.
It is important to note that a facelift does not improve the skin’s quality, although this is a common misconception. A facelift is often combined with fat transfer, which brightens, repairs, and improves skin elasticity.

At what age should you consider a facelift?

There is no official recommended age. Some people seek a facelift in their early 40s when signs of aging or a particular facial feature become bothersome. A facelift done in early middle age can help prevent visible signs of aging.
In some cases, people undergo a facelift even earlier if genetic factors cause premature aging changes.

Typically, facelifts become relevant between the ages of 40 and 65, when the face no longer reflects how young a person feels mentally or physically.

A facelift is a plastic surgery procedure

A facelift can surgically address issues like deep wrinkles, sagging facial skin, or a so-called “turkey neck.” The results of the surgery are long-lasting. However, aging continues even after the facelift. Post-surgery, signs of aging can often be treated more easily with skincare products and, if needed, minor surgical or non-surgical procedures.

Recovery from facial surgery varies by individual. Swelling and bruising may last 2–3 weeks. The skin may feel numb for about three months. Makeup can typically be applied 7–10 days after surgery, and the skin should be well protected from sunlight.

Facelift recovery is relatively quick. Swelling may persist for several weeks. The final result is usually visible within 3 to 6 months. Bruising, swelling, and other side effects can be treated with Arnizen™ cream. Lymphatic therapy is recommended before and after surgery to prevent and reduce swelling.
Sick leave is typically needed for at least two weeks.

Full facelift surgery

A full facelift targets both the face and neck tissues.

The surgical incision runs from the front of the earlobe along the hairline and around to behind the ear. A full facelift is most suitable for individuals aged 45–70, though it can be performed earlier in some cases.

The procedure also lifts the subcutaneous tissues of the neck, tightening both facial and neck areas.

The facelift technique depends on the desired outcome and the surgeon’s methods. In most cases, a small portion of hair (about six centimeters) must be shaved from the temple area above and behind the ear. The incision is then made near the hairline, continuing from the temple around the earlobe and behind the ear to the hairline. The surgeon then works with the fat and muscle layers beneath the skin. The skin is pulled upward and backward, and excess skin is removed. The procedure takes approximately 2–4 hours in total.

Mid-facelift surgery

In a mid-facelift, the tissues in the middle part of the face are repositioned and tightened. The procedure lifts the cheekbones and midface, including the area between the nose and mouth corners. Softened and sagging cheek tissues are elevated and fixed in place, reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds that age the face. The outer corners of the eyes and the lower eyelids also appear more youthful. Because the tissues are permanently fixed to new positions, the results remain excellent for a long time.

Mid-facelift results become visible quickly. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia.
Scars remain hidden in the lower eyelid area or within the hairline.

This procedure is generally performed after age 40. However, it can be done as early as age 35 if aging signs or facial features are bothersome.

Minifacelift

The Minifacelift, also known as the Hollywood Lift, is suitable for individuals aged 40–60. It targets the jawline, midface, and neck.

The procedure begins with a relatively small incision in front of the earlobe. The surgeon then tightens the skin and, if needed, the SMAS layer (supporting facial tissue), and removes excess skin. Finally, the incision is carefully closed.
The Hollywood Lift restores youthful fullness, firmness, and facial contours. However, the results are very natural:

• The jawline lifts and firms (eliminating “jowls”)
• Even deep nasolabial folds smooth out
• The midface lifts and firms
• Age-related tissue laxity disappears
• The neck also tightens to some extent

Despite its noticeable results, the Hollywood Lift can be done under local anesthesia.

Results typically last 5–10 years, though duration varies individually.

Choosing the type of facelift

Signs of aging differ slightly from person to person. The midface often shows the earliest signs, and these changes are easily noticeable. For some, aging is most visible around the eyes or mouth. These are individual differences.

A skilled surgeon treats each patient as an individual. An experienced surgeon sees the face as an aesthetic whole, considering different facial areas during surgery planning. The goal is always balance and a natural appearance.

Anyone considering a facelift should first consult a specialist and openly discuss their goals and expectations. After a free consultation, it is recommended to also book a consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Riikka Veltheim.

Recovery support products

• Arnizen™ Cream Gel – for bruising and swelling
• Scarsilc Gel – for scar treatment
• Lamelat™ Serum – for UV protection