Facelift Surgery Istanbul

Facelift surgery is a surgical facial rejuvenation procedure that aims to reposition sagging tissues, particularly in the mid-lower face and jawline, and to address excess skin where necessary. It does not stop aging; the goal is a more rested and balanced appearance while preserving the person's facial anatomy.

What Is Facelift Surgery?

Changes in the face are not caused by excess skin alone; the subcutaneous tissues, facial ligaments, fat compartments and neck structures may all be affected. For this reason, rather than simply pulling the skin, the examination determines which anatomical layers will be addressed.

Terms such as mini facelift, classic facelift or face and neck lift do not refer to a single standard technique. The choice is based on the location and degree of sagging, skin quality, hairline, previous procedures and the person's healing capacity.

Who May Be a Candidate?

• People with loss of jawline definition, downward changes in cheek tissues or sagging of the neck
• Adults who expect more noticeable tissue repositioning than non-surgical treatments can provide
• People whose general health is suitable for surgery and anesthesia and whose smoking can be managed
• People who accept that the result will not stop aging and that scars will not disappear completely

What is assessed during the examination?

Assessment 1

The front, side and three-quarter views of the face are examined together with skin elasticity, fat distribution, the jawline and the neck.

Assessment 2

The hairline, the area around the ears, previous surgical scars and facial nerve function are assessed.

Assessment 3

Medications affecting bleeding risk, smoking, blood pressure and chronic diseases are reviewed; medication changes are made only with the approval of the relevant physicians.

Assessment 4

The incision plan, anesthesia, healthcare facility, possible use of drains and follow-up schedule are explained.

How Does the Process Work?

1. Incisions are usually adapted to the natural lines of the hairline and around the ears; the plan varies from person to person.
2. Deep tissues are repositioned in a controlled manner where necessary, and excess skin is redraped without tension.
3. If there is neck sagging, the neck structures can be addressed in the same session; additional procedures are planned only when a safe operating time and individual risks allow.

Recovery and follow-up

In the early period, swelling, bruising, tightness and temporary numbness can be expected. No single timeframe can be given for returning to social life and work; the plan is based on the scope of the procedure and the speed of healing. Final tissue settling continues over weeks to months, and scars mature over time.

Expected results and limitations

The result is not to turn the person into someone else, but to reduce sagging while preserving the natural proportions of the face. The face continues to age; how long the effect lasts depends on genetics, sun exposure, smoking, weight change and skincare habits.

Alternatives and complementary options

For mild tissue changes, energy-based treatments, fillers, botulinum toxin or thread lift options may be considered; however, these methods are not equivalent to the tissue repositioning achieved by a surgical facelift.

Possible risks and complications

• Bleeding or hematoma, infection, wound separation and visible scarring
• Temporary, rarely permanent, effects on facial nerve branches and asymmetry of facial expressions
• Changes in sensation, changes in the hairline or temporary hair loss
• Impaired skin circulation; increased risk especially in smokers
• Asymmetry, under- or over-correction and the need for revision

Frequently asked questions