What to Expect During Your Facelift Consultation

Your facelift journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with your plastic surgeon. This meeting is your opportunity to share your reasons for considering the procedure and to discuss the results you’re hoping to achieve. Your surgeon will walk you through the entire surgical process—from pre-operative preparations to recovery—so you know exactly what to expect every step of the way.

We encourage open and honest communication during this consultation. Sharing your expectations, lifestyle habits, and any concerns allows your surgeon to tailor the procedure to your needs. A full review of your medical history will be conducted to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for facelift surgery. As part of your pre-surgery evaluation, photographs of your face will be taken to help you visualize your transformation post-procedure.

Your surgeon will also provide important pre-operative guidelines to help ensure the best possible outcome. These typically include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking at least three weeks before surgery, and avoiding aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications, as these can increase the risk of bleeding.

Facelift Surgery: Procedure Overview

Facelift surgery is typically performed in a hospital setting under local or general anaesthesia. Depending on the technique chosen and individual patient needs, the procedure generally takes between 2 to 4 hours.

During the surgery, the skin is carefully lifted, and the underlying facial muscles and tissues are tightened for a more youthful structure. Fat deposits in the face and neck may be sculpted, redistributed, or removed to enhance facial contours. Once the facial tissues are repositioned, the skin is redraped, excess skin is trimmed away, and the incisions are closed using sutures or surgical tape.

The placement and type of incisions depend on the specific facelift technique used and the patient’s anatomy and preferences. Below are the common types of facelift approaches:

Traditional Facelift

This classic technique involves an incision that begins at the hairline near the temples, travels around the ear, and extends into the lower scalp. Fat may be repositioned or removed from the face, jowls, and neck, while deeper tissues and muscles are lifted for structural support. Often, a small incision under the chin is added to address signs of ageing in the neck area. Excess skin is removed and the remaining skin is gently smoothed over the rejuvenated contours.

Endoscopic Facelift

An advanced and less invasive alternative, the endoscopic facelift uses small, strategically placed incisions—often hidden in the scalp. A tiny camera (endoscope) and specialized instruments are used to precisely lift and reposition the underlying facial tissues. This technique is especially effective for patients showing moderate ageing in the midface and upper face. Benefits include minimal scarring, reduced downtime, and faster recovery compared to traditional methods.

Limited Incision Facelift (Mini-Lift)

Ideal for those with mild to moderate skin laxity, the limited incision technique uses a shorter incision that starts at the hairline above the ear and wraps around the front of the ear without extending into the lower scalp. While this method offers less dramatic results than a full facelift, it’s a good option for younger patients or those seeking subtle rejuvenation.

Neck Lift

For those concerned primarily with neck ageing, a neck lift may be recommended. The incision typically begins in front of the earlobe, curves around the ear, and extends into the lower scalp, with an additional small incision under the chin. This approach targets sagging skin, jowls, and fat accumulation beneath the chin.

Incision Healing and Recovery

Incisions are closed using sutures—some of which may dissolve on their own, while others may need to be removed in a few days. Skin adhesive may also be used for a cleaner closure. Once healed, incision lines are generally discreet, blending naturally into the hairline and contours around the ears and face.

What to Expect After Your Facelift Surgery

After your facelift procedure, your surgeon may place a bandage around your face to help minimise swelling and bruising during the initial recovery period. Small drainage tubes might also be positioned to remove any excess fluid or blood that may collect beneath the skin.

It's normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort, temporary numbness, bruising, swelling, or slight drainage from the incision sites. Your surgeon will prescribe pain-relief medication to help manage any post-operative discomfort.

Typically, the day after your surgery, the drainage tube will be removed. Your surgeon will clean the incision areas, apply an antibiotic ointment, and re-bandage your face for continued protection and support.

Within 2 to 3 days, many patients transition from traditional bandages to an elasticised facial sling, which offers continued support while being more comfortable to wear. Around one week post-surgery, your stitches will likely be removed, and your surgeon will carefully assess the healing process.

Additional follow-up appointments will be scheduled to ensure your recovery is progressing well and to address any questions or concerns along the way.

Facelift Recovery & Aftercare: Supporting Long-Lasting Results

Our skilled medical team is committed to supporting you throughout every stage of your recovery. Proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing and achieving long-lasting, natural-looking results. To ensure a smooth recovery, please follow these key guidelines:

• Take prescribed pain medication and apply any topical ointments exactly as directed.

• Use cold compresses to help minimise swelling and discomfort.

• Keep your head elevated while sleeping or resting to reduce pressure and promote healing.

• Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, or vigorous exercise during the initial recovery phase.

• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and allow your surgeon to track your progress.

By carefully following these instructions and maintaining open communication with your doctor, you’ll support a smooth recovery and enhance the long-term outcome of your facelift.