What Are The Different Types Of Facelifts?
Learn And Get The Mid Or Neck Facelift You Need.
Discover the different types of facelifts and what they can do for you! Read our article and learn all the different facelift options that you can choose from.
As we age, it’s not just our skin that starts sagging – the underlying structures of the face begin to droop. This can lead to a loss of fullness in the cheeks and under the eyes, as well as the appearance of deepening wrinkles and creases around the mouth. And while we can’t prevent these effects of aging, we can reverse them with a facelift.
Thanks to medical advancements, different facelift types are available today to address specific facial areas and achieve the desired results. Before we delve into the different types of facelifts, let’s first look at what a facelift is.
What is a Face Lift?
Surgical Vs. Non-Surgical Face Lift
When considering a facelift, patients have the option of choosing between a surgical or non-surgical facelift. While both procedures can provide excellent results, there are some key differences to consider before making a decision.
Surgical facelifts require an incision to access the underlying layers of tissue. This type of facelift is typically more invasive and has a longer recovery time. Non-surgical facelifts, on the other hand, do not require any incisions. Instead, they use advanced technologies, such as radiofrequency or ultrasound, to heat the deeper layers of skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin.
A non-surgical facelift is a good option for patients who are not ready for a traditional facelift. Recovery from a non-surgical facelift is typically shorter than healing from a traditional facelift, but the results are not as dramatic nor permanent.
Let’s discuss the different types of facelifts available today.
Mini Facelift
Also known as a “weekend facelift” or a “lunchtime facelift”, this minimally invasive procedure can be performed in about an hour. It focuses on tightening only certain areas of your face such as your cheeks or jawline. Patients who can benefit from a mini facelift are those experiencing early signs of aging, such as saggy skin in the cheeks and jawline.
A mini facelift tightens deep facial tissues through shorter incisions. These incisions are typically placed along the hairline above each ear and/or in the ear’s natural creases. The surgeon can lift and tighten structural tissues around the cheeks through the incisions. The mini facelift is less invasive than a traditional facelift, and it has a shorter recovery time.
Traditional Facelift
A traditional facelift is the most common type of facelift and involves making incisions along the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin. It is more invasive than a mini facelift, but the results are more dramatic and permanent. It’s typically suitable for patients with apparent signs of aging, such as significant skin laxity in the cheeks and jowls.
Incisions during a traditional facelift are hidden along the hairline and extend around the ear. Another small incision is also performed under the chin. The surgeon can access deep facial tissues and muscles through these incisions to make corrections. A more lifted and youthful appearance is successfully achieved by tightening the tissues in these areas.
Excess fat can also be removed from the neck and jowls during a traditional facelift. Recovery from a traditional facelift is typically longer than recovery from a mini facelift, but the results are more impressive and last for much more years.
Mid Facelift
Brow Lift
As we age, the skin on our forehead starts sagging, leading to wrinkles and creases. A brow lift elevates the skin in this area, providing a more youthful appearance. A brow lift is specifically designed to address aging signs in the temple region. It corrects saggy skin, wrinkles, and drooping eyelids. The incisions are usually made along the hairline above each ear. Through these incisions, the surgeon can access deep structures and make corrections.
Thread Lift
Also called a barbed suture lift, a thread lift is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional facelift. Unlike traditional facelift that involves making incisions and removing excess skin, thread lift uses special threads inserted under the skin to lift and tighten the skin. Thread lifts can provide similar benefits to traditional facelifts, but they can’t offer dramatic results.
The threads used in a thread lift are made of materials that dissolve over time, so they do not need to be removed. The results might last for about a year, after which the threads will have dissolved and the effects will have worn off.
Thread lifts are a good option for patients who want to avoid surgery and those who want to see what results they can expect from a traditional facelift before committing to the procedure.
Liquid Lift
Injectables like dermal fillers are non-surgical alternatives to a facelift. These procedures can be used to address wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss.They are made of materials that add volume to the skin, helping fill in wrinkles and creases. Dermal fillers can also be used to add volume to the lips.
The results from dermal fillers typically last for six to 12 months. Recovery from injectables is typically shorter than recovery from a traditional facelift, but the results are not that dramatic.
Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation Treatments
Endoscopic Facelift
Endoscopic facelift is a game-changer in the world of facial rejuvenation. It uses state-of-the-art technology and techniques to lift and tighten the skin of the face and neck, resulting in a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
Unlike traditional facelift, the endoscopic facelift is minimally invasive and requires only small incisions hidden in the hairline. Through these tiny incisions, a small camera and specialized surgical instruments are used to lift and reposition the underlying tissue, resulting in a more natural-looking result.
Patients experience less scarring, a shorter recovery time, and a more refreshed and youthful appearance.
Evaluate The Risks & Benefits Of A Facelift
One of the main benefits of a facelift is its ability to produce long-lasting results that can improve one’s self-confidence and self-esteem. In addition, a facelift can help address sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and other signs of aging that cannot be corrected with non-surgical treatments.
However, there are also potential risks associated with facelift surgery. These risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Nerve damage
- Anesthesia complications.
Additionally, some patients may experience uneven results or dissatisfaction with the outcome of the procedure.
It is essential to thoroughly evaluate the risks and benefits of a facelift with a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon before making a decision. Factors such as age, overall health, and skin elasticity can also impact the success and safety of the procedure. The decision to undergo a facelift should be carefully considered and made in consultation with a trusted medical professional.
Understand The Recovery Process
- First 24-48 Hours: After the procedure, you will experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. You will need to rest and avoid any strenuous activities during this time.
- 1 Week: The swelling and bruising will gradually subside, making you feel more comfortable. Your surgeon will remove any sutures or drains, and you may be able to return to work or light activities.
- 2-3 Weeks: Most of the swelling should have resolved, and you may start seeing the results of your facelift. You may still experience some residual swelling or bruising, but this should continue to improve.
- 4-6 Weeks: Your skin and tissues will continue to heal. You may be able to resume more strenuous activities, but you should still avoid any high-impact activities or lifting heavy weights.
- 3-6 Months: Your final results should be fully visible, and you can enjoy the full benefits of your facelift. It’s important to continue following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and long-term results.
Prepare For The Procedure
Step 1: Consult with your surgeon
The first step in preparing for a facelift is to meet with your plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. During this consultation, your surgeon will also evaluate your medical history and current health to determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery.
Step 2: Follow pre-operative instructions
Your surgeon will provide you with a list of pre-operative instructions to follow before the surgery. This may include avoiding certain medications, stopping smoking, and adjusting your diet.
Step 3: Arrange transportation and help
Since facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You may also need help with daily tasks during your recovery period.
Step 4: Prepare post-surgery medication and supplies
Before your surgery, you will need to purchase any supplies or medications your surgeon recommends for your recovery. This may include pain medication, compression garments, loose-fitting clothes and ice packs.
Step 5: Plan for time off work
Recovery from a facelift typically takes several weeks, so you will need to plan for time off work or other responsibilities. Make sure you have enough time to rest and recover before returning to your normal routine.
By following these steps, you can prepare yourself for a successful facelift procedure and a smooth recovery.
Find A Qualified Surgeon: Planning Your Facelift With The Accredited Plastic Surgeon Dr. Stavrou
Learn more about facelift by scheduling a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Demetris Stavrou in Nicosia, Limassol, Athens, and Sliema (MD, MSc, EBOPRAS, ASPS).
Dr. Stavrou has extensive experience in facial surgery and an artistic eye. He uses cutting-edge surgical technology and advanced facelift techniques to rejuvenate your face and make you look at least 10 years younger. He will advise you on when it is best to undergo a facelift and ensure that you feel comfortable, confident and secure before and after the procedure.
Do you want to learn more about facelifts? Read now all the different types of facelift incisions and which option is better for you.
Dr Stavrou is a board-certified and highly experienced plastic surgeon in Cyprus, Greece and Malta, with a keen interest in informing patients about the latest updates on reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery.
- University of Athens Medical School
- Residency in Plastic Surgery at the Chaim Sheba Medical Center at Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Assistant Professor, St George’s, University of London / Medical School at the University of Nicosia
- Honorary Tutor at the University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, UK
- MSc with Distinction in “Wound Healing and Tissue Repair”, University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, U.K
- Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery (EBOPRAS)
- International Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) Instructor
- Fellowship in “Advanced Aesthetic Surgery” from the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery – Monash University, Australia
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
- Brow Lift
- Chin Augmentation
- Facelift
- Facial Cancer Treatment
- Neck Lift
- Otoplasty
- Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
