Face Lift in Turkey, Face Lift Cost

Glance to Facelift Surgery

Facelift	Fast facts
Procedure time ⏳	2-3 hours
Anaesthetic type 💉	Genel anesthesia or local (Mini facelift)
Length of stay 🛏	1 stay hospital
Up and mobile 🚶🏻‍♂️	1 day
Washing 🛁	3 days
Travel ✈️	1 week
Sexual activity ❤️	2 weeks
Driving 🚗	2 weeks
Return to work 📅	Next day (desk work)
Postoperative garment 👕	2 weeks
Sleeping 😴	On back 1 week
Exercise 🏃🏽‍♀️	6 weeks
Full recovery 🕺🏻	6 weeks
Final results 😃	3 months
Suitable age	40-60 years
Facial lift scars	Facial lift scars are typically well-hidden and fade over time.
Lifespan	Facial lift lifespan can extend up to 10-15 years.

What is a facelift?

Facelift also known as rhytidectomy is one of the facial treatments that is not only performed on account of aesthetic reasons but also a medical requirement. This refers to the operation carried out on the face to achieve the look of youthfulness against the effects of aging and genetics. Facelift surgery is very popular among women, however, men also resort to it to treat some wrinkling of the face skin and sagging that occurs after some age.  While performing facial lift procedures, simultaneously forehead lifts, eyebrow lifts, eyelid aesthetics, neck lifts liposuction and fat injection can be done.

Who is a good candidate for a facelift?

If a person is experiencing any of the following symptoms, a facelift surgery is an ideal option:

Significant Skin Laxity

Once the cheeks and neck lose their elasticity due to aging or external factors, their skin can become deeply wrinkled. Facelift surgery, in real terms, makes this skin tight and restores a more youthful face contour.

Deep Creases and Folds

Gradually, deepened folds can occur from the mouth to the nose and from the mouth to the chin. These folds are called nasolabial folds and marionette lines. In this lower face lift the surgeon can get rid of the lower face creases and make the face look younger.

Jowling and Loss of Jawline Definition

With the skin sagging more with age, the jawline will become less sharp, resulting in the jowls. A facelift procedure does that by re-positioning and tightening the underlying structures, hence restoring a better-defined and youthful jawline.

Neck Concern

Such as sagging skin around the neck, accumulation of fat under the chin, and posturing of the neck muscles people usually consult for this treatment. The process involves lifting and tightening the muscles of the neck and the extraction of the excess fat and skin, thereby improving the whole outlook of the neck and lower face.

Facial Volume Loss

Unlike the traditional facelift, which mainly concentrates on skin lift and deeper tissues, the latter is usually in combination with other procedures, for instance, fat injections, or fillers.

Persistent Aesthetic Concerns Not Addressed by Non-Surgical Treatments

Such patients would opt for non-surgical alternatives including fillers, botox, and laser treatments before they consider surgery. When they no longer produce the desired results, the last resort would be a facelift to get more gratifying and lasting results.

What to do before facelift surgery

Find experienced surgeon

A surgeon who is experienced is needed. Otherwise, some complications may occur.

Some drugs are stopped

Use of aspirin, coumadin, blood thinner, ibuprofen, pain relievers, and vitamin E should be avoided before the surgery. The need to discontinue vitamin supplements or herbal mixtures is possible, given the blood-thinning effects.

Food consumption is halted.

The patient should refrain from any food intake at least 8 hours before the current surgery. Otherwise, The patient under general anesthesia will still have food in his or her stomach, and later on, the food content might go up and block the trachea.

Quit smoking and consuming alcohol.

Smoking and alcohol for their long-term side effects are very serious. Nicotine leads to blood vessel contraction and therefore lowers the amount of oxygen in the blood, which may also be detrimental to wound healing, immune system, and infectious diseases. The patients should stop at least 10-15 days before the operation if it is possible to do so.

Pregnancy status should be released

In case of pregnancy or its possibility to occur, share it with the doctor.

On the day of surgery, there are some issues to do.

Some points should be aware of on the day of the surgery. 8 hours before surgery, eat nothing and drink no liquid including water. Priming for medicines like blood pressure and diabetes that you take every day all the time can be done in the morning after taking a sip of water. Makeup including hairspray, gel, or nail polish shouldn't be applied. You should wear comfortable clothes. Such clothes obtain comfort as they are easy to wear and comfortable.

How is performed facelift surgery?

As an expert plastic surgeon who focuses on facial rejuvenation via the facelift procedure, I apply to each treatment my in-depth knowledge of the multi-faceted characteristics that influence the surgical outcome.

Pre-operative Assessment

Skin Type and Ethnicity: Skin texture, thickness, and elasticity vary greatly between individuals, and this could affect both the surgical approach and the healing process. Ethnicity is also an important factor as some skin types are more likely to scar or hyperpigment.

Degree of Skin Laxity and Facial Bone Structure

Detailed assessment gives an understanding of the extent of skin drooping and underlying bone structure.

Anesthesia

Facelift surgery is usually conducted under general anesthesia so that the patient feels secure and pain-free throughout the operation. For less severe operations or for those patients who have special health conditions, local anesthesia combined with sedation anesthesia may be used. It is made in conjunction with an anesthesiologist after a detailed analysis of the patient’s medical history and test results.

Diagnostic Tests and Imaging

Pre-surgical Tests: CBC, X-ray, and EKG are used to determine whether the patient is perfectly fit for surgery and anesthesia. This examination is important to expose any underlying diseases that may worsen the procedure or recovery.

Photographic Analysis: High-resolution photos of the face are taken from different angles before the operation. They are used as a guide during the operation and as a reference point for post-operative assessments.

Surgical Technique and Incisions

The choice of incision patterns is individualized concerning the patient's unique facial structure, the magnitude of correction desired, and the patient's expectations. Consequently, incisions are carefully done at the edges of the ear's natural contours and extended to the hairline to hide visible scars.

To treat the problem in the neck, such as excess fat or loose skin, a small incision may be made just under the chin to give way to liposuction and contouring.

What are facelift techniques?

Classic Face Lift

The time-honored facelift, also known as the traditional or full facelift, focuses mainly on the lower two-thirds of the face and the neck. This complex process involves the incisions that usually start from the temples through the ears and end with the lower portion of the scalp. The skin is precisely raised to achieve the tightening and realignment of the muscles and underlying tissues. In a classic facelift, individuals who have a lot of skin laxity and deep wrinkles can see drastic transformations in their appearance.

Mini Facial Lift

The mini facelift is less invasive than the usual facelift and is the best option for patients with mild to moderate signs of aging, for example, slight skin sagging and fewer facial wrinkles. The incisions are much shorter and usually do not extend further away from the ears. It (the procedure) centers on the tightening of the skin and removing wrinkles, mainly, in the lower face and jawline. It is usually a short recovery time. so it becomes the most widespread option for people who are interested in a quicker postoperative period.

Endoscopic Face Lift

The endoscopic facelift is an advanced surgical procedure, which utilizes the most modern device – a miniature camera and special instruments. Due to the reduced size of incisions, which are usually made within the hairline, the technique is very efficient and focuses primarily on the mid-face, such as cheeks and lower eyelids. It works very well when there is a need to correct such drooping and deep creases around the area.

Deep Plane Facial Lift

The deep plane facial lift, in contrast to traditional techniques, is aimed at the muscles of the face and SMAS layer, not only the facial skin. This method enables more profound and real-life-looking results by repositioning the whole facial structure rather than just tightening the skin. The procedure suits the people with notable sagging and who need significant improvements.

Composite Face Lift

The composite face-lift is an advanced method that not only lifts the skin and the SMAS tissues but also lifts the deeper soft tissues and muscles, particularly around the eyes, and the midface. Such a comprehensive approach drastically modifies aging signs which offer you a refreshed look that is well-balanced and natural.

SMAS Facelift (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System)

The SMAS facelift, on the other hand, aims at the tissue just underneath the skin and the subcutaneous fat. It adds this tension along with the skin tightening, which results in a more firm and natural-looking lift. This technique is better known for producing a substantial improvement in the contour of the face and neck.

Subperiosteal Face Lift

The subperiosteal facelift goes even deeper and aims at the tissues just above the facial bones. The process involves picking up all of the soft tissue that lies on the facial bones, which increases the volume and shape of the face, particularly the area of the cheeks and eyebrows.

MACS Face Lift (Limited Access Cranial Suspension)

A MACS facelift provides for minimized scarring and a shorter recuperation period. It uses tiny incisions along the hairline and around the ears to lift the deeper facial layers using special stitches. This procedure is especially efficient for lifting the lower face and neck.

S-LIFT

Named after the tiny, S-shaped cut made at the front of the ear, the S-LIFT is the mini lift that deals with the lower third of the face. This minimally invasive approach is optimal for younger patients or those with mild aging and ensures a smooth recovery and natural, subtle improvement.

What to do after facelift surgery (Comprehensive guide)

There were thoughts that after the facial lift procedure, the face would become quite swollen and bruised and that it was necessary to wait a long time to go out into society. However, there is no need to have these concerns anymore due to the use of new technologies in the field of plastic surgery and the use of endoscopic surgical procedures. Because the damage to the tissues during the surgery is minimized and therefore the recovery time of the patients is shortened.

If the doctor's recommendations are followed after the facial lift surgery, the facelift recovery process is comfortable.

Hospital stay

The length of stay in the hospital after surgery is at the discretion of the physician and is usually 1 day. After this period is completed, the patient who is discharged can participate in daily life.

Eating and drinking should be stopped

Nothing should be eaten or drunk until the effect of the anesthetic wears off (approximately 2 hours). After the operation, light movements and walking accelerate the healing process.

Mild pains are relieved with painkillers

There may be mild severe pain after the operation. Painkillers given by the physician are sufficient to relieve the pain (usually analgesics containing paracetamol, acetaminophen, or dipyrone are preferred).

Swelling and bruising are temporary

Edema or bruising is common after surgery. This is normal and there is no need to worry. Cold application is made on the cheeks every 1-2 hours and for 10-15 minutes each time. As a result of cold application, swelling, redness, and bruises will pass more quickly. 2 days of cold application is sufficient. Swelling and bruises begin to decrease in 7-10 days and completely disappear within 3 weeks.

Check-up should be done

Control examination should be done on the day determined by the physician. Bandage removal and suture removal are performed during examinations.

Smoking should be stopped

Smoking causes constriction of blood vessels, reducing the amount of oxygen dispersed throughout the body. Reduced oxygen causes delayed healing.  Due to the weakening effect of smoking and alcohol on the immune system, the formation of infections is also easier. For this reason, even if the consumption cannot be completely stopped, it should be interrupted for at least 15 days.

The head should be kept above the heart level

Care should be taken that the head is above the level of the heart during hospitalization and pillows should be placed under the head. Lie down should be on your back if possible. This lying position will also reduce edema, bleeding, and pain formation.

Heavy work and sports should be avoided for a while

You should rest enough in the days after the operation. Due to heavy work and sports, the face area may not be adequately protected and may be damaged. Moreover, sudden movements should be avoided in order not to damage the seams.

The face should be protected from heat

There may be an increase in temperature in the face area due to environments such as spas, baths, and saunas. This may delay the swelling down and increase the pain, especially in the days immediately after the operation.

The bandage is removed on the 7th day at the latest.

The bandage worn after the operation is removed after 6-7 days at the latest, depending on the type of operation. The attached bandages have an effect that prevents the skin from settling and prevents the formation of edema.

The shower should be interrupted

The day recommended by the physician should be taken as a basis for the shower. It is possible to take a shower with warm water after 2 days, provided that the area is not wet.

Protection from the sun

It should be protected from the sun as much as possible. If it is necessary to go out in the sun, high-impact protectors should be used.

Stitches are removed

Your surgeon will inform you on the day the stitches will be removed. The stitches are removed after approximately 7 days, depending on the type of operation.

It is beneficial to take 7-10 days off.

Although it is possible to stand up immediately after the operation and start normal work within 1-2 days, it is useful to rest. It would be appropriate to return to routine life after a week or 10-day leave. It may take 1-2 months for the face to fully heal and reach the desired state.

Pomade can be used

Antibiotic and/or emollient pomades recommended by your doctor can be applied on the suture lines 2 times a day.

Patience for make-up

After removing the face wrap, the skin can be gently cleaned with soapy water or Vaseline skin care lotions, if the doctor's approval has been obtained. However, one must be very sensitive during cleaning. Make-up should not be worn for at least two weeks.

Facial expressions should be reduced

It is necessary to avoid facial expressions that will stretch the seam line, such as laughing excessively for a few days, or excessive talking for 2 weeks.

Foods that need to be chewed a lot should be interrupted.

Foods that are difficult to chew or that require a long time to chew should not be consumed for a while. It will be beneficial to reduce the amount of salt in the diet for 3 weeks.

Clothes should be specially chosen

Instead of the dresses that are worn through the head, those that are buttoned in the front should be preferred. Particular attention should be paid to this dressing style for 7 days.

How much does a facelift in Turkey cost?

Avarage face lift cost are given in table.

Location	Average Cost
Facelift costs Turkey	$3,000 - $6,000
Facelift costs UK	£7,000 - £12,000
Europe facelift price	€5,000 - €12,000

Facelift Turkey packages include accommodation, airport transfers, and a facelift cost. These packages are very suitable for foreign patients. Please contact Op.Dr.Arif Yılmaz to learn about our current facelift costs.

Is facelift surgery painful?

Because the facial lift surgery is carried out under general anesthesia, the patient does not get pain or suffer during the process.

Some patients experience slight pain for 2-3 days after surgery due to the influence of narcotics that have their effect soon after the operation. Your surgeon will recommend painkillers to combat them. Swelling after the facelift surgery also causes pain by pressing on the nerve. Icold treatments (ice or ice pack can be applied every 1 hour for 10 minutes) will reduce pain.

Is a facelift permanent?

As a result of the facelift procedure performed properly, facelift results last 10 years.

Personal care after the surgery affects the permanence of the results. Excessive use of cigarettes and alcohol, an intensely stressful life, unbalanced sleep or insomnia, avoidance of sports and exercise, unbalanced and unhealthy eating habits, and not taking precautions against sun rays adversely affect the duration of permanence.

Some other treatments such as filling and botox under the control of surgeons cause more permanent results.

Does a facelift leave scars?

In the classical facial lift, the incisions are placed in front of and behind the ear at the natural line points. Since the facelift incisions are made in areas such as the front and back of the ear and the scalp, a very slight facial scar occurs. This facial scar takes the color of the skin after 21 days and becomes vague over time. During endoscopic facial lift, small incisions of 1-2 millimeters are inside the hair, so scars are not seen. However, the care after the surgery is important. Especially if the habit of substances such as cigarettes and alcohol continues, both the healing process will slow down and the facelift scars may become more obvious.

How long does a facelift procedure take?

A facelift procedure tends to last between 1 and 3 hours. 

Of course, more complicated, multilayered surgeries will require more time but the discussion about timelines will be held during your consultation.

Will I need a general anesthetic for a facelift procedure?

Yes, the full facelift of course will require a general anaesthetic, although some of the simpler ones and mini facelifts might just do with a local one with sedation as an option.

Will there be swelling and bruising after a facelift?

Yes, following all the surgeries there will be swelling including facelift procedures.

I have found that patients bruise to different degrees after surgery, depending on their natural healing time frame. The only expected side effects are the possible bruising and swelling that should go away in 2-3 weeks.

How long will I need to take off work?

We suggest that you book 1-2 weeks off at work. More time may be needed for more complex surgeries. The duration will depend on the job category and the surgical method.

When can I exercise after a facelift?

Following 4-6 weeks you can return to sports and other strenuous activities, please check with your surgeon first as the recovery period varies from case to case.

When can I wear make-up after facelift surgery?

We recommend you stay away from wearing make-up for at least a week after your facelift procedure. Make sure you don't apply your makeup over the incisions if you wear makeup since it can cause the exposure of harmful bacteria to your incisions which will in turn delay the healing process. You might contact your doctor or nurses if you are uncertain.

Will a facelift get rid of my wrinkles?

The face-lifting procedure is more focused on lifting soft saggy skin, especially the neck and cheeks. Even though you will see the lines and wrinkles improved to a certain extent through facelift surgery, if this is your main concern, then nonsurgical procedures such as wrinkle relaxing injections or laser rejuvenation might be better suited for you.  

What are the alternatives to a facelift?

Among the available noninvasive procedures, the list includes non-surgical facelifts, fat transfer treatments, and facial rejuvenation procedures, which, in turn, will combat the signs of aging on the skin such as age patches, wrinkles, and loss of fat volume to the face.

• One Stitch Facelift
• Organic Facelift (Fat Transfer)
• 8 Point Lift
• Wrinkle Relaxing Injections
• Dermal Fillers
• Laser Treatments

To find out more about facelift alternatives please, contact us here.

What is the difference between a full and mini facelift?

Full facelift concentrates on the area from that of your eye region to the jaw area and a mini facelift is more modeled on the lower end of your face. Additionally, the incisions used in mini facelifts are also smaller, meaning the recovery time will usually be decreased slightly.

What are the risks of a facelift?

Facial lifting surgery, as with any invasive surgery, does carry some level of risks that come with it. These facelift risks range from bleeding, and infections to adverse reactions to anesthesia. Patients can be affected by scars, nerve damage causing muscle weakness/asymmetry, or skin necrosis which is more prevalent in smokers. Therefore, those who want to undergo this procedure must talk about the possible consequences with their plastic surgeons to reveal the risks and benefits of the surgery.

Am I too old to have a facelift?

The greater number of people undergoing a facelift in our clinic are over the age of 40. It has no maximum age limit; rather, being realistic about your expectations is important. Preferably, the best effects are evidenced in people who still happen to be on the elasticity side of their skin, have good bone structure, and, most importantly, are fit and healthy. To begin with, initial consultation with our competent facial plastic surgeons is the best way to your eligibility for the surgery as well as the anticipated outcome.

Does a facelift remove a double chin?

Yes, a facelift, performed by a surgeon, will help to create a more youthful look by tightening the saggy skin and repositioning or removing extra fat from the chin and neck region. Not only for the lifting of the face skin, but a face-lift also involves other techniques that incorporate working towards a tighter jawline and neck offering complete rejuvenation. For patients with more significant double chins, a combination of liposuction or other techniques can be the best choice.

Are fillers better than a facelift?

No, the fillers do not carry on the same function as facelifts, rather they tend to play different roles. Filler and botox injections work for minor adjustments and volume correction and provide only temporary results; a facelift gives a more comprehensive cover of nasolabial folds, jowls, and sagging skin wrinkles.

Note:

You can contact us to get detailed information about facelift surgery and to be examined.  This article is for informational and advisory purposes. The recommendations of your surgeon who will examine you and perform the surgery should be a priority. We wish you a healthy day.