Rhytidectomy, commonly known as a facelift, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at restoring a youthful appearance to the face and neck. By removing sagging skin and lifting the deeper tissues, it enhances facial contours, reduces wrinkles, and restores volume to the midface, delivering natural and long-lasting results.
The modern technique offers significant rejuvenation with minimal scarring and a rapid recovery. It effectively addresses skin laxity in the cheeks, neck, and the area around the mouth; however, it does not correct wrinkles on the forehead or lips—unless combined with other procedures, such as a blepharoplasty.
The procedure is not determined solely by age but is tailored to the unique needs of each face. It is highly important for smokers to quit smoking prior to surgery.
A rhytidectomy does not simply change your appearance—it restores freshness and confidence, bringing harmony between how we look and how we feel.
Consultation Session
During your initial consultation visit, the primary goal is to clearly define your personal desires and expectations from the procedure. The surgeon will evaluate whether you are a suitable candidate for the surgery through a detailed medical history and a comprehensive clinical examination. During the discussion, all available options will be presented, along with the most appropriate recommendation, as well as full disclosure regarding potential risks and complications that may arise.
Anesthesia & Length of Stay
The procedure is performed under light anesthesia/sedation or general anesthesia and typically requires an overnight stay at the hospital.
Associated Risks in a Facelift
A rhytidectomy is a safe procedure with limited risks. General complications include postoperative bleeding and infection, which occur rarely but can happen. If not detected in time, these issues may affect a portion of the nerve responsible for facial muscle movement. This limitation in nerve function can lead to incomplete movements in specific areas of the face. Mobility is expected to return gradually, but it may take up to a year for full recovery. It is, therefore, crucial to understand that you should not hesitate to contact your surgeon if you have any doubts regarding the risks mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Bruising and swelling are common immediately after the procedure and are completely normal. Returning to work depends on the nature of your job and typically occurs two weeks after the surgery. Sutures are removed 1 week post-surgery, after which makeup can be applied. Exercise can be resumed after one month.
Incisions are placed in areas where they are less visible: in front of or inside the ear, at the hairline, and behind the ears. Over time, they become unnoticeable. The scars will be slightly red during the first few months until their color blends in. The final appearance of the scars is typically complete about one year after the surgery.
Most patients return to mild daily activities within the first few days after surgery, while some can return to work after about two weeks, depending on the demands of their job. Sports activities can be resumed, on average, after 4–6 weeks.
It is important to listen to your body: pain serves as a protective sign, so if certain movements cause discomfort, it is best to avoid them. In the following weeks, swelling gradually decreases, but it may still persist for some time; therefore, we advise postponing any important social activity for at least two months after the surgery. Full recovery is typically complete in about one year.
Your cheeks will feel tight and perhaps slightly asymmetrical for a few months, even though this will not be visible. The skin in front of the ears will be numb for the same period of time, but sensation will gradually return over time.