Short answer
A face lift (rhytidectomy) is surgery that lifts and tightens the deeper layers of the cheeks, jawline and upper neck, then removes excess skin. It usually takes 3-5 hours under general anaesthesia with 1 night in hospital. Most patients stay in Istanbul for 7-10 days and return to work after 2-3 weeks.
What is a face lift?
A face lift is an operation that repositions sagging facial tissue rather than simply pulling the skin tight. The surgeon lifts the deeper muscle and connective layer, known as the SMAS, so the result looks natural and lasts longer.
Depending on your needs, the surgery can focus on the lower face and jawline (a mini or lower face lift) or extend to the midface and neck. It is often combined with eyelid surgery, a brow lift or a neck lift.
Who is it for?
A face lift suits adults with moderate to advanced sagging that creams, fillers or threads can no longer correct. Good candidates are in stable health, do not smoke or are willing to stop, and have realistic expectations.
- Jowls and a less defined jawline
- Deep folds between the nose and mouth
- Loose skin and bands in the upper neck
- Volume loss in the midface
How the procedure is done
The operation is done under general anaesthesia in hospital. Incisions are usually hidden in the natural crease in front of the ear, around the earlobe and into the hairline behind the ear.
Through these incisions the surgeon lifts the SMAS layer, secures it in a higher position and trims excess skin before closing with fine stitches. Small drains may be placed for the first day. You stay 1 night in hospital so the team can check you closely.
Metropolmed's own surgical team performs the operation in Istanbul, and a personal coordinator stays with you from your first message to your 12-month follow-up. Your hotel, VIP transfers and a medical interpreter are arranged before you land in Istanbul.
Preparing for your face lift
Good preparation lowers the risk of complications. You will be asked to stop smoking and nicotine products at least 4 weeks before and after surgery, because nicotine reduces blood flow to the lifted skin. Blood-thinning medicines and some supplements are paused on your doctor's advice.
Bring a list of your medicines and any recent test results. Pre-operative blood tests and an anaesthetic review are done in Istanbul the day before surgery.
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after
- Pause aspirin, fish oil and vitamin E if advised
- Pack button-front tops and a travel pillow
- Plan 2-3 weeks before important events
Recovery and results
Swelling and bruising are strongest in the first week and settle gradually over 2-3 weeks. Stitches are usually removed after 7-10 days, before you fly home. You will be asked to sleep with your head raised and avoid heavy exercise for about 4 weeks.
Most patients feel comfortable in public after 2-3 weeks. The face continues to soften for several months, and the final result is usually seen between 6 and 12 months. A face lift does not stop ageing, but the improvement typically lasts many years.
Risks and safety
Like any surgery, a face lift carries risks. These include bleeding or a collection of blood under the skin (haematoma), infection, visible scarring, temporary numbness, hair loss near incisions and, rarely, injury to a facial nerve causing weakness. Smoking increases the risk of skin and wound problems.
A doctor assesses your suitability in person before surgery, reviews your medical history and blood tests, and explains which technique fits you. Our team follows you for 12 months after the operation.
Recovery timeline
- Day 1Overnight hospital stay, dressings and drains checked.
- Week 1Swelling peaks then eases, stitches removed around day 7-10.
- Week 2-3Most bruising fades, light daily activity and return to work.
- Month 3Most swelling has gone and the new contour is clear.
- Month 6-12Final result as tissues fully settle.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a face lift last?
A face lift typically lasts 8-10 years or more. Your skin keeps ageing naturally, but you will usually continue to look younger than you would without surgery.
Will my face lift scars be visible?
The scars are usually well hidden in the natural creases around the ear and within the hairline. They fade over 12 months and are rarely noticeable once healed.
What is the difference between a mini face lift and a full face lift?
A mini face lift uses shorter incisions and mainly treats early jowls and the lower face. A full face lift treats the lower face, jawline and often the neck, and suits more advanced sagging.
Can a face lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, a face lift is often combined with eyelid surgery, a brow lift, a neck lift or fat injection. Your surgeon will advise whether combining is safe for you.
When can I fly home after a face lift?
Most patients fly home 7-10 days after surgery, once stitches are removed and the surgeon has checked healing.
