What is a Facelift Surgery?

Hello, I am Dr. Ahmet Kaplan. Today, I would like to inform you about one of the most frequently asked and preferred procedures in aesthetic surgery: facelift surgery. The changes that occur on our face with the aging process create both physical and psychological effects for many people. Facelift surgery is an effective method applied to reverse these changes and achieve a younger, more dynamic appearance. In this article, I will share with you the details of facelift surgery, who it is suitable for, the recovery process, and much more.

What is a Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery, medically known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure performed to reduce sagging, wrinkles, and signs of aging in the face and neck area. This surgery is based on the principle of tightening the muscles and tissues under the skin, removing excess skin, and reshaping facial contours. After the surgery, patients achieve a younger and fresher appearance.

Who is Suitable for Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery is generally preferred for individuals aged 40 and above, but it can also be performed at younger ages for those who experience early signs of aging. Suitable candidates for the surgery should have the following characteristics:

• Noticeable sagging in the face and neck area,
• Deep wrinkles and lines,
• Loss of definition in the jawline,
• Reduced skin elasticity,
• Good overall health and non-smoking status.

Before the surgery, we conduct a detailed consultation with our patients to understand their expectations and create an appropriate treatment plan.

How is Facelift Surgery Performed?

Facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The basic steps of the surgery are as follows:

• Incisions: Incisions are made starting from the front of the ear and extending towards the scalp. These incisions are planned to leave minimal scarring.
• Reshaping Skin and Tissues: The muscles and tissues under the skin are tightened, fat tissues are redistributed, or excess fat is removed.
• Removing Excess Skin: Sagging excess skin is trimmed and removed.
• Sutures: The incisions are closed, and the surgery is completed.

The duration of the surgery varies depending on the patient’s needs but generally takes between 2-4 hours.

Recovery Process After Surgery

There are some important points that patients should pay attention to after facelift surgery:

• First 48 Hours: Swelling, bruising, and mild pain may occur on the face. This process is alleviated with cold compresses and painkillers recommended by the doctor.
• 1st Week: Swelling and bruising begin to subside. Patients can usually return to their social lives within 7-10 days.
• 1st Month: Swelling on the face largely disappears, and the results of the surgery become noticeable.
• 3-6 Months: Full recovery is achieved, and the rejuvenation of facial contours becomes clearly visible.

After the surgery, we regularly call our patients for check-ups and closely monitor the recovery process.

Risks and Complications of Facelift Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, facelift surgery carries some risks. These include:

• Infection,
• Bleeding,
• Scarring,
• Nerve damage (rarely),
• Asymmetry.

However, when performed by an experienced surgeon, these risks are minimized. Before the surgery, we inform our patients about all potential risks and take necessary precautions.

Advantages of Facelift Surgery

Facelift surgery offers many advantages both physically and psychologically:

• A younger and fresher appearance,
• Increased self-confidence,
• Sharper facial contours,
• Long-lasting results (10-15 years).

Although the effects of the surgery are not permanent, the aging process is slowed down, and patients can maintain a youthful appearance for many years.

My Approach as Dr. Ahmet Kaplan

Aesthetic surgery is not only a physical but also an emotional transformation process. Therefore, understanding each patient’s expectations and offering them the most suitable treatment plan is of great importance to me. During facelift surgery, I work meticulously to achieve a natural appearance and preserve my patients’ facial expressions. My goal is to help my patients feel better about themselves and give them the opportunity to look in the mirror with inner peace.Facelift surgery is an effective method to reverse signs of aging and achieve a younger appearance. However, the success of this surgery largely depends on the surgeon’s experience and the patient’s expectations. If you would like to learn more about facelift surgery or schedule a consultation, I would be happy to welcome you at my clinic in Turkey.Stay healthy and beautiful, Dr. Ahmet Kaplan