Facelift & Neck Rejuvenation
What Is Facelift & Neck Rejuvenation?
A facelift is a surgical procedure designed to correct age-related changes in the lower two-thirds of the face and neck. These changes may include sagging jowls, deep nasolabial folds, loss of jawline definition, and laxity of the neck skin. Unlike techniques that tighten only the skin, modern facelifts target the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), the deeper structures responsible for facial support. This ensures long-lasting improvement and a more youthful, natural contour, often combined with neck rejuvenation for a fully balanced result.
Symptoms and Concerns a Facelift Can Address
A facelift may be suitable if you experience:
- Sagging or drooping in the mid-face
- Deep wrinkles and folds
- Jowls or blurred jawline
- Loose skin or banding in the neck
- Loss of facial volume
- Tired or aged appearance despite skincare or nonsurgical treatments
Types of Facelift & Neck Rejuvenation
Dr. Esen tailors the surgical approach based on the patient’s anatomy, aging pattern, and expectations. Available techniques include:
Deep Plane Facelift
An advanced technique that repositions the SMAS layer and underlying facial structures as a single unit, rather than just tightening the skin. This provides a more natural, longer-lasting lift with a lower risk of the “pulled” or “windswept” look associated with older facelift methods.
Mini Facelift
A less invasive alternative for patients showing early signs of aging. It focuses on lifting the mid-face and jawline through shorter incisions and a quicker recovery, making it a suitable option for patients not yet ready for a full facelift.
Neck Lift
Targets loose skin, muscle banding, and fat accumulation under the chin and along the neck — areas a facelift alone does not always fully address. The platysma muscle is tightened and repositioned, excess fat is removed or contoured, and loose skin is redraped for a smoother, more defined neck and jawline. Neck Lift is most often performed together with a facelift for complete facial rejuvenation, but can also be tailored as the primary focus for patients whose main concern is neck laxity rather than facial sagging.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
A facelift may be appropriate if you:
- Are between 40 and 70 years old (or younger with early signs of aging)
- Notice sagging skin, jowls, or deep wrinkles
- Are in good physical health
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations about outcomes
- Prefer surgical results over temporary nonsurgical options
A consultation with Dr. Esen includes detailed facial analysis, skin quality assessment, and discussion of your goals to determine the most suitable approach.
How the Facelift Procedure Is Performed
A facelift is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on the technique.
- 1. Incision placement, discreetly placed around the ears and into the hairline to ensure scars remain virtually invisible
- 2. SMAS layer lifting, repositioning the deeper facial structures for a naturally youthful contour
- 3. Removal or redistribution of fat, including fat grafting where needed to restore facial balance
- 4. Skin redraping, trimmed without tension to prevent an “overdone” look
- 5. Neck refinement (if needed), tightening the muscles and skin in the neck region for a smooth, firm result
- 6. Closure and dressing, with fine sutures used to support optimal healing
Facelift Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3 Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal. Patients are advised to rest with the head elevated.
Days 4–10 Bruising gradually fades. Most patients feel comfortable performing light activities.
Weeks 2–3 Many patients return to work. The majority of swelling subsides.
Weeks 4–6 Results become more refined. Normal exercise may resume after medical clearance.
Months 3–6 Final results are visible. Scars continue to mature and fade.
Expected Results
A successful facelift delivers:
- A firmer, more defined jawline and mid-face contour
- Smoother neck skin without sagging or banding
- A naturally refreshed appearance without an "overdone" look
- Long-lasting results that continue to refine over the following months
- Improved confidence with results that age gracefully with the patient
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do facelift results last?
Most results last 8–12 years, depending on skin quality, lifestyle, and the technique used.
Will I look unnatural?
Dr. Esen’s deep plane approach is designed to lift underlying structures rather than pull the skin, avoiding the tight or “windswept” appearance of older techniques.
Are the scars visible?
Incisions are placed within the hairline and around the ear, making resulting scars very difficult to notice once healed.
When can I return to work?
Most patients return to work within 2–3 weeks, once visible bruising and swelling have subsided.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Facelift is commonly combined with neck lift, eyelid surgery, or fat grafting for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.