Facelift & Necklift

Quick Facts

Overview

A facelift and necklift addresses sagging skin, jowl formation, and neck laxity that develops with age. Modern facelift techniques work on the deeper SMAS layer (the fibrous network beneath the skin) rather than just pulling the skin, resulting in natural results that last considerably longer.

We offer three main approaches: the standard SMAS facelift, the deep plane facelift, and the mini (short scar) facelift. Your facelift can be combined with other procedures such as fat transfer, eyelid surgery, brow lift, or laser resurfacing for enhanced overall facial rejuvenation.

Who Is This Procedure For?

• •Sagging skin and loss of facial contour
• •Jowl formation along the jawline
• •Neck laxity (often called “turkey neck”)
• •Desire for a refreshed, natural-looking appearance
• •Typically best suited for patients in their 40s–60s

What Does the Procedure Involve?

The SMAS facelift works by tightening the fibrous network beneath your skin (the SMAS layer), removing excess skin, and creating tension in these deeper layers to produce a natural, long-lasting result.

The deep plane facelift releases and repositions tissues as a single unit, providing longer-lasting results but typically resulting in more swelling during recovery.

The mini facelift uses shorter incisions placed along the hairline and in front of the ears, without extending behind the ears. This technique is ideal for early to moderate aging and requires less extensive surgery.

Risks & Considerations

• ⚠Haematoma (bruising): Occurs in less than 5% of cases. Managed with simple drainage if needed.
• ⚠Temporary nerve changes: May cause facial asymmetry or altered sensation. These typically resolve within 3–6 weeks.
• ⚠Sensory changes/numbness: Usually temporary and recovers within 6–12 months.
• ⚠Permanent numbness: Rare, typically confined to the lower earlobe area.
• ⚠Scarring: Scars follow natural contours and fade over 6–12 months.
• ⚠Delayed healing: Occurs in approximately 2% of cases, particularly in smokers.
• ⚠Secondary procedures: 5–10% of patients may require revision surgery for optimal results.

Recovery Overview

Patient Information Leaflet

Download the official BAAPS/BAPRAS patient information leaflet for facelift and necklift surgery to learn more about the procedure, risks, and aftercare.