Face Lift (Rhytidectomy)

I have wrinkles
My skin looks saggy
My face does not appear youthful with tight, smooth skin

Officially referred to as rhytidectomy, but commonly referred to as a face lift, this surgical procedure can reduce the signs of ageing, such as sagging skin. The treatment helps to decrease the appearance of wrinkles and smooth the skin.

Officially referred to as rhytidectomy, but commonly referred to as a face lift, this procedure can reduce the signs of ageing, such as sagging skin.

The treatment helps to decrease the appearance of wrinkles and smooth the skin. It can also have a tightening effect, which works to improve firmness and create a more toned look, while also reducing creases around the mouth and eyes. You can choose to have a full face lift or target specific areas if there is part of your face you are more concerned about, such as the brow, lower portion of the face or neck.

Typically, a face lift will be conducted under general anaesthetic. To begin with, the surgeon will make an incision in the hairline and around the ears. In order to remove excess fat, the skin is then separated from the muscles, which are subsequently tightened. If you’re having surgery on your neck too, a third incision will be made and a similar process followed before the skin is pulled across once again.

A face lift can also be achieved through keyhole surgery. If you’ve chosen this option, several small incisions will be made instead. Tools including an endoscope to transmit images are passed through the incisions, allowing the surgeon to carry out his or her work. This option minimises scarring and improves recovery time.

After your face lift you may find you have some swelling and bruising. This can be eased by applying a cooling compress to the affected area. In some cases, drainage tubes may be used but they will be removed after a few days. All the bandages should be removed five day after the surgery takes place. Most patients will find that they make a full recovery in three weeks or so and can then go back to work and their normal day-to-day routine.

The best candidates for a facelift are those who have experienced some sag in the skin on their face and neck but still have some elasticity and a strong, defined bone structure. Most patients are aged between 40 and 60 but the treatment can still be successful into the 70s and 80s.

Everyone is unique so the cost of the treatment will vary on a case-by-case basis however, prices start from around £6,000.