A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce visible signs of aging in the face and neck. As we age, skin loses elasticity, and facial tissues lose volume. Eventually, this leads to the development of jowls on the lower face, deep wrinkles, and loose skin on the neck. A facelift addresses these issues by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues and muscles, and redraping the skin over the newly repositioned facial contours.
Traditional Full Facelift
This comprehensive approach addresses aging throughout the face, jowls, and neck. Dr. Yıldıran would typically make incisions that begin in the temple area, continue around the ear, and may extend into the lower scalp. This technique allows him to reposition deeper tissues, remove excess skin, and redrape the remaining skin for a more youthful appearance. Given his specialty training at Istanbul Medical School’s Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Yıldıran would have extensive experience with this gold-standard technique that provides the most dramatic and long-lasting results.
Mini-Facelift
For patients with mild to moderate facial sagging, Dr. Yıldıran might recommend this less invasive option. The procedure involves shorter incisions, typically around the ears, and less extensive tissue manipulation. His participation in the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Society Fellowship Program (2022) would have enhanced his skills in these modern, less invasive approaches. Mini-facelifts offer quicker recovery times while still providing noticeable improvement, particularly for younger patients or those in the early stages of facial aging.
Mid-Facelift
This specialized technique targets the middle portion of the face—specifically the cheeks and nasolabial folds (lines running from the nose to mouth corners). Dr. Yıldıran might perform this procedure through small incisions in the lower eyelid or hairline. His attendance at the Face and Neck Istanbul 2024 congress would have exposed him to the latest advancements in mid-face rejuvenation techniques. This approach is particularly effective for patients whose primary concern is cheek sagging rather than neck or jowl issues.
SMAS Facelift
The Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System (SMAS) is a layer of tissue beneath the skin that connects facial muscles to the skin. Dr. Yıldıran’s specialized training would allow him to manipulate this layer effectively, creating tension in the right direction to lift sagging features without creating an unnaturally tight appearance. This technique provides more natural and longer-lasting results than older skin-only approaches, as it addresses the structural changes that occur with aging.
Deep Plane Facelift
This advanced technique represents the cutting edge of facelift surgery. Dr. Yıldıran, with his extensive training and participation in national congresses such as the EPCD 28th National Congress (2024), would be familiar with this sophisticated approach. The deep plane technique involves releasing and repositioning facial tissues at a deeper level than traditional facelifts, particularly around the midface and jowls. This provides more natural-looking, longer-lasting results and may be particularly suitable for patients with significant sagging or those who have previously had facelift procedures.
As a specialist who completed his training at one of Turkey’s most prestigious plastic surgery departments and has maintained active membership in multiple aesthetic surgery associations, Dr. Yıldıran would be able to evaluate each patient individually to recommend the most appropriate technique based on their specific anatomy, degree of aging, and desired outcomes.
Facelift Before After Photos
Procedure Timeline
| Stage | Description | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | Assessment, planning, medical evaluation | 1-2 weeks before surgery |
| Preparation | Medication adjustments, lifestyle changes | 2 weeks before surgery |
| Surgery | Outpatient procedure, general anesthesia | 3-6 hours |
| Initial Recovery | Bandages, drainage tubes, significant swelling | 1-2 weeks |
| Return to Work | Resuming normal activities | 2-3 weeks after surgery |
| Final Results | Complete healing, swelling subsided | 2-3 months |
Candidates for Facelift Surgery
- Individuals with sagging in the mid-face area
- Those with deep creases below the lower eyelids
- People with deep creases along the nose extending to the corner of the mouth
- Individuals with facial fat that has fallen or is displaced
- Those with jowls due to loss of muscle tone
- Individuals with loose skin and excess fatty deposits under the chin and jaw
Recovery and Aftercare
Following a facelift, patients typically experience bruising and swelling that gradually subsides. Pain is generally minimal and can be managed with prescribed medication. Initial recovery takes about two weeks, during which time visible bruising will fade and most swelling will resolve. Complete healing and final results may take several months as the tissues settle into their new position.
Recovery Milestones:
- Days 1-3: Rest with head elevated, cold compresses, medication management
- Days 4-7: Removal of drainage tubes, possible suture removal
- Days 7-14: Return to light activities, continued swelling reduction
- Weeks 3-4: Return to normal activities, makeup can conceal residual bruising
- Months 1-3: Continued refinement of results as final swelling resolves
Risks and Complications
While generally safe, facelift surgery carries risks including:
- Scarring (usually hidden in hairline)
- Hematoma (blood collection under the skin)
- Nerve injury (usually temporary)
- Hair loss at incision sites
- Skin necrosis (rare)
- Asymmetry
- Anesthesia risks
Long-term Results
A facelift can set back the aging clock by 5-10 years, but it doesn’t stop the aging process. With proper skin care, sun protection, and healthy lifestyle choices, results can last for many years.