Step 2 — Anaesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation depending on the clinic’s protocol and the extent of the surgery. The patient feels absolutely nothing during the entire operation and is continuously monitored by the anaesthesia team.

Step 3 — Strategic incisions

The surgeon makes incisions following the natural contours of the ear: starting discreetly at the temple, continuing in front of the ear, around the earlobe, and extending behind the ear and into the hairline in cases that include neck treatment. These incisions are designed to remain completely hidden within the hair and natural skin creases.

Step 4 — SMAS repositioning

This is the key step that distinguishes modern facelift surgery from older techniques. The surgeon accesses the deep facial layer — the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) — and repositions it vertically to its original anatomical position.

Simply tightening the skin leads to artificial and short-lasting results. Working on the SMAS provides genuine, natural, and long-lasting rejuvenation because it corrects the true cause of facial ageing: the descent of the deep facial tissues.

Step 5 — Neck treatment (platysmaplasty)

When neck laxity, visible platysmal bands, or a double chin are present, the surgeon also treats the platysma muscle, tightening and repositioning it to create a defined and elegant jawline and neck contour. This may require a small additional incision under the chin, which is also well hidden.

Step 6 — Redraping and removal of excess skin

Once the deep tissues have been repositioned, the skin is gently redraped over the new structure without tension. Only then is the excess skin removed. This sequence — deep layer first, skin second — is what ensures a natural result and avoids the tight or “pulled” appearance of older facelift techniques.

Step 7 — Closure and dressing

The incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a soft compression dressing is applied around the face and neck. This helps reduce swelling, supports the repositioned tissues, and allows the skin to adapt properly to its new position.

Types of facelift available in Istanbul

Mini Facelift (S-Lift / Short Scar Facelift)
Indicated for patients with mild to moderate signs of ageing, typically between 40 and 55 years old, with early laxity in the lower face and neck. It involves shorter incisions, faster recovery, and very natural results. It is often the first step into surgical facial rejuvenation.

Full Facelift (SMAS Facelift)
The most comprehensive and commonly performed technique. It treats the entire face — cheeks, midface, nasolabial folds, jawline — and the neck by working deeply on the SMAS layer. It is indicated for moderate to advanced ageing and provides long-lasting, global rejuvenation lasting 8–15 years.

Deep Plane Facelift
The most advanced and technically demanding facelift technique. The surgeon works beneath the SMAS layer, releasing and repositioning facial retaining ligaments. It delivers the most natural, complete, and long-lasting results available today, particularly effective for deep nasolabial folds and midface descent.

Neck Lift
Indicated for patients whose main concern is neck laxity, visible platysmal bands, or loss of jawline definition. It can be performed alone or combined with a full facelift.

Facelift with Fat Grafting (Lipofilling)
A common combination in Istanbul. Alongside the facelift, the patient’s own fat is transferred to restore lost facial volume in areas such as the cheeks, under-eye region, and nasolabial folds, achieving a more complete rejuvenation.

What does a facelift correct?

• Removes excess and sagging facial and neck skin

• Repositions descended deep facial tissues

• Corrects neck laxity and double chin

• Restores jawline definition and facial oval shape

• Softens or eliminates deep nasolabial folds

• Corrects midface (cheek) descent

• Reduces platysmal neck bands

• Improves tired or aged facial appearance

• Provides 10–15 years of apparent rejuvenation with natural results

• Delivers longer-lasting results than non-surgical treatments

Recovery timeline

Days 1–2: The patient remains under medical supervision. Small drains may be placed and removed within 24–48 hours. Swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness in the face and neck are normal. A compression dressing is worn during the first days. Discomfort is well controlled with medication.

Days 3–7: Discharge from hospital. The patient rests in Istanbul with scheduled follow-ups. Sutures are removed gradually. Swelling and bruising begin to decrease day by day. Head elevation is essential, and all physical effort must be avoided.

Week 2: Most patients can return home. Swelling is significantly reduced, and bruising is resolving. Many patients can resume light social and professional activities with makeup if needed.

Weeks 3–6: Swelling continues to improve. Intense exercise, direct sun exposure, and facial massages must be avoided. Temporary changes in skin sensation are normal and gradually resolve.

2–3 months: Results become clearly visible, and the full transformation can be appreciated. The skin has adapted to the new tissue position.

6–12 months: Final results are fully visible. Scars mature and become barely noticeable. The rejuvenated appearance remains stable over time.

Advantages of facelift surgery in Istanbul

• Highly specialised facial plastic surgeons with international training and extensive experience in advanced facelift techniques

• Access to the most modern techniques: Deep Plane Facelift, SMAS Facelift, and facial fat grafting

• JCI-accredited hospitals and approval by the Turkish Ministry of Health

• 50–70% cost savings compared to Western Europe or the USA for the same surgical quality

• All-inclusive packages: VIP transfers, hospital stay, 4–5 star accommodation, preoperative tests, medication, compression dressing, and full follow-up care

• Dedicated Spanish-speaking coordinator throughout the stay

• Online medical follow-up after surgery

Ideal candidate for facelift surgery

A facelift is suitable for individuals who:

• Have moderate to advanced signs of facial ageing that non-surgical treatments can no longer correct effectively

• Present facial or neck skin laxity

• Show descent of deep facial tissues, loss of jawline definition, or pronounced nasolabial folds

• Have neck sagging, platysmal bands, or excess skin

• Seek long-lasting, natural results rather than an artificial appearance

• Are in good general health

• Maintain a stable weight

• Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking at least 3 weeks before and 1 month after surgery

• Have realistic expectations and understand that facelift rejuvenates but does not stop the ageing process