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Facelift
A facelift rejuvenates the lower face, neck, and jawline. It may also include lifting the mid-face, forehead, and eyebrows. Book a consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Specialist in the article
LT plastiikkakirurgian erikoislääkäri
Revised 6/2/2025
Facelift in brief
- A facelift rejuvenates the appearance, improves facial contours, and can remove excess fat if necessary.
- Facelifts can be performed using various techniques, and the operating surgeon selects the most suitable method based on aesthetic goals and individual characteristics.
- The first step is a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss aesthetic goals, expectations, and overall health.
Who is a facelift suitable for?
A facelift may be appropriate if sagging skin on the jawline, neck, or under the chin is causing concern due to aging. Facelifts are performed on both women and men. Most patients undergoing a facelift are between 45 and 70 years old, but excellent results can also be achieved for those over 70.
A facelift, or lower face and neck lift, can address:
- Sagging skin on the cheeks that droops toward the jawline.
- Loose and hanging skin under the chin and on the neck.
- Lines extending from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
- Sagging skin and deep wrinkles in the cheek area.
- Excess fat under the chin.
It is advisable to discuss the suitability of the procedure with a plastic surgeon if you have high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, wound healing issues, or excessive scar formation, such as keloids.
Treatment of nasolabial folds
Nasolabial folds, which extend from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, are often treated with fillers that add volume to the skin. Deeper folds may require surgical lifting.
Treatment of marionette lines
Marionette lines, which run downward from the corners of the mouth, can make the face appear sad or tired. These are often treated with fillers, but deeper lines may require surgical procedures such as fat transfer or lower face lifting.
Neck tightening and firming
The skin on the neck is delicate and prone to signs of aging, such as sagging and wrinkles. A surgical neck lift removes excess skin and tightens tissues. Neck treatments are often combined with facelifts to achieve a harmonious result.
Additional procedures during a facelift
If necessary, other procedures, such as upper eyelid surgery or facial fat transfer, can be performed alongside a facelift.
A brow lift, or forehead and eyebrow lift, addresses functional and aesthetic concerns caused by drooping eyebrows.
Preparing for a facelift
- Consultation. The first step is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During the appointment, aesthetic goals, expectations, and any concerns are discussed. The plastic surgeon also evaluates overall health.
The consultation includes a review of past and current medical conditions, medications, supplements, previous surgeries and treatments, as well as alcohol and tobacco use.
- Possible weight loss. Significant weight loss of over 15 kilograms can affect surgical results. Therefore, the surgeon will discuss any weight loss plans.
- Physical examination. The plastic surgeon examines the facial bone structure and deep tissues, their thickness, skin elasticity, and the depth of wrinkles and folds. The hairline is also assessed. The surgeon plans the placement of the subtle incision made during the surgery.
- Smoking and medications. Smoking and certain medications should be discontinued two weeks before the surgery.
How a facelift proceeds
Facelifts can be performed using various techniques. The operating plastic surgeon selects the technique based on the discussed aesthetic goals and individual characteristics.
The incision is usually hidden along natural wrinkles and folds. It typically begins behind the hairline at the temple, continues in front of the ear, around the earlobe, and behind the ear, partially into the hairline at the back of the head.
During the surgery, the facial skin is separated from the deep tissues. Loose and sagging connective tissues are lifted back to their original position, improving facial contours. A small liposuction under the chin may also be necessary.
In the recovery room, the patient’s condition is monitored, and pain relief is provided as needed. Skilled staff ensure that post-operative recovery proceeds as smoothly and safely as possible.
The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. An anesthesiologist monitors the patient’s condition during and after the surgery. A facelift may require an overnight stay at Mehiläinen’s hospital ward or recovery room.
Recovery after a facelift
- Daily Activities. Light daily activities can be performed during the first week.
- Bandages and Stitches. Immediately after the surgery, a bandage is placed on the face to reduce swelling and fluid accumulation. Small drainage tubes may be placed under the skin to prevent fluid and blood buildup. During the first week after the surgery, the bandage is removed. Stitches are also removed unless dissolvable stitches were used.
- Swelling. Swelling in the facial area is common the day after surgery. It can be reduced by keeping the head elevated. Even during sleep, the head of the bed should be raised, or pillows should be used to maintain a semi-upright position.
- Bruising. Most bruises disappear within two weeks after the surgery, but it is advisable to allow 3–4 weeks for recovery. The pace of healing is individual.
- Pain Management. Pain may occur after the surgery and is managed with painkillers.
- Hygiene. Showering is allowed during the first week after the surgery.
- Excellent Results with a Facelift. Most patients who undergo a facelift are very satisfied with the results. However, recovery takes time, and the final results will be visible several months after the surgery.
Other related services
Botulinum and filler treatments
The treatments improve skin appearance and reduce wrinkles.
Breast augmentation surgery
An aesthetic procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts.
Breast reduction surgery
A surgical procedure that improves quality of life and reduces pain.
Consultation with a plastic surgery nurse
A free consultation helps you find the right treatment options.
Male breast reduction surgery
Breast enlargement in men is often caused by excess glandular tissue.
Plastic surgeon
A specialist in plastic surgery performs treatments and surgeries to enhance the appearance and functionality of the face and body.
Scar revision surgery
An experienced plastic surgeon helps eliminate bothersome scars.
Tattoo removal
Tattoo removal can be done safely with laser treatment or surgery.
Upper eyelid surgery
With age, the upper eyelid becomes slacker, which can result in a limited field of vision.
Frequently asked questions about facelifts
During a facelift, the skin on the face and neck is tightened, and excess skin is removed. The procedure may also involve lifting deeper tissues and removing excess fat. This improves facial contours and rejuvenates the appearance.
A facelift helps reduce signs of aging, such as sagging skin and deep wrinkles. It enhances the contours of the face and neck, which can boost self-confidence and create a more youthful appearance. While a facelift does not stop the aging process, the results are typically satisfying for many years.
Preparation begins with a consultation with a plastic surgeon, where your health status and aesthetic goals are discussed. Smoking and certain medications should be discontinued before the surgery. It is also important to follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions, such as avoiding significant weight fluctuations.
Recovery usually takes 3–4 weeks, but bruising and swelling may subside within two weeks. The final results will be visible several months after the surgery. Light daily activities can be resumed during the first week.
A facelift is generally suitable for individuals aged 45–70, but older patients can also benefit from the procedure. Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or excessive scar formation, may be contraindications. An initial consultation with a plastic surgeon is essential to assess suitability.
Thousands of women and men undergo facelifts each year with excellent results. However, all surgeries carry risks. The plastic surgeon will discuss these risks during the initial consultation, allowing you to make an informed decision about the procedure.
Following the plastic surgeon’s instructions during preparation is crucial to achieving the best possible surgical outcome.
