Non-Surgical Facelift

A non-surgical facelift is a non-invasive aesthetic treatment that will visibly reduce the signs of aging and give the skin a younger, firmer appearance for people who are not yet ready for plastic surgery.

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What Is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting sagging, wrinkles, and skin laxity that develop with the natural aging process. Often referred to as facial rejuvenation, it involves repositioning the skin and underlying tissues, removing excess skin, and tightening the remaining tissue to achieve a firmer, smoother appearance.By addressing signs of aging in both the face and neck, a facelift can significantly reduce visible aging and restore a fresher, more youthful look.
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Is a Non-Surgical Facelift Possible?

Yes. Non-surgical facelift techniques—also called facial rejuvenation—are available and are known under names such as Focused Ultrasound, HIFU, Ultherapy, Doublo, and Ultraskin. These are safe, non-invasive ultrasound-based treatments that target both the skin surface and deeper facial tissues. The procedure involves applying sound waves at specific frequencies through devices similar to ultrasound machines, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin.

There are several non-surgical methods that can refresh and lift the face without traditional surgery, often described as minimally invasive or completely non-invasive. Examples include:

  • Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy: Uses RF energy to heat the tissues beneath the skin, boosting collagen production and promoting a firmer texture.
  • High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): Delivers focused ultrasound energy deep into the skin to stimulate tightening and lifting.
  • Laser Treatments: Apply controlled heat energy to the skin, encouraging collagen regeneration and improving firmness.
  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Primarily used for pigmentation and visible vessels, but also enhances elasticity for a subtle lifting effect.
  • Dermal Fillers: Hyaluronic acid and similar fillers restore lost facial volume, smooth wrinkles, and refresh facial contours.

While these treatments generally involve minimal downtime, their effects and longevity vary from person to person. Choosing the right method requires a thorough evaluation of skin condition, desired results, and professional medical advice.

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How Is a Facelift Performed?

A facelift—also known as rhytidectomy—is a surgical procedure designed to correct sagging, wrinkles, and other visible signs of aging in the face and neck. It is usually performed under general anesthesia.

The operation begins with an incision starting in front of the ear and extending along the hairline. The skin is gently lifted to expose the underlying tissues, where sagging muscles and connective tissue are repositioned or tightened. Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is carefully redraped for a smoother, firmer appearance. The incisions are closed with precision, and stitches are typically removed after a few weeks. Full recovery may take several weeks.

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

The longevity of a facelift varies depending on factors such as skin quality, age, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. On average, the effects last between 7 and 10 years. During this time, the face and neck generally maintain a more youthful and lifted look. However, aging continues naturally, and over time, additional procedures may be desired to maintain results.

Recovery After a Facelift

Following surgery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for several days. Recovery generally spans a few weeks, with stitches removed in the early post-operative period. Rest, protecting the face from strain, and following the surgeon’s aftercare instructions are crucial. It may take several months for the final results to fully settle, revealing the refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

Can a Facelift Be Repeated?

Yes. In some cases, a facelift can be performed more than once. The results of the initial surgery may gradually diminish over time as part of the natural aging process. When this happens, patients may consider a secondary facelift. Whether a repeat procedure is necessary depends on the individual and is influenced by factors such as post-operative care, lifestyle habits, and genetics.

At What Age Can You Have a Facelift?

Facelift surgery is most commonly chosen between the ages of 40 and 60, though this is not a strict rule. The key factor is the presence of noticeable signs of aging in the skin. Some people opt for a facelift earlier, while others choose it well into their 60s. The procedure is equally suitable for both men and women, and male facelift surgeries are increasingly common.

Will Everyone Notice a Facelift?

Not necessarily. The goal of facelift surgery is to create a natural, refreshed appearance—not an overly tightened or “operated on” look. While there is a recovery period during which swelling or bruising may be visible, the final results emerge gradually. Depending on the surgeon’s technique and the patient’s natural features, others may simply notice that you look more youthful and well-rested, without realizing you’ve had surgery. Over time, your close circle may observe a fresher and younger appearance.

Do you have any questions?

EBOPRAS approved plastic surgeon MD. Güray Yeşiladalı is also a member of ISAPS and ASAPS.

When Can You Return to Normal Life After a Facelift?

The timeline for resuming normal activities after a facelift varies from person to person. In most cases, patients can return to light social activities within a few days, though full recovery may take several weeks. During the first few days, swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common. Following post-operative care instructions is essential, along with taking protective measures to avoid strain on the face. Strenuous physical activities, prolonged sun exposure, and excessive facial movements should be avoided during the healing period.

What Is a Facelift Tape?

A facelift tape is a skin-care product designed to temporarily tighten sagging skin and reduce visible wrinkles and signs of aging. These thin, transparent adhesive strips are applied to targeted areas of the face. By gently pulling and lifting the skin, they create an instant tightening effect that smooths lines and reduces sagging.

As we age, collagen—the protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity—naturally decreases, leading to looseness and wrinkles. While facelift tapes provide only temporary results, some cosmetic procedures, such as collagen thread lifting, aim for a more lasting effect. In collagen thread lifts, fine collagen threads are inserted beneath the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin tightness over time.

For best results, facelift tapes are often used alongside other skin-care or anti-aging treatments. Regular use can temporarily soften the appearance of sagging and fine lines, but they are not a permanent solution.

What Is a Mini Facelift and How Is It Done?

A mini facelift is a targeted facial rejuvenation procedure focusing on specific areas of the face to address early signs of aging. It is particularly effective for mild sagging, fine wrinkles, or early skin laxity along the jawline.

Usually performed under local anesthesia, it involves small incisions and subtle lifting of facial tissues. The skin and underlying structures are repositioned to create a smoother, more refreshed appearance. Because it is less invasive than a full facelift, the recovery period is shorter and involves minimal downtime—making it a popular option for those seeking natural, subtle improvements without undergoing extensive surgery.

How Does a Mini Facelift Differ from a Full Facelift?

A traditional or full facelift is a more comprehensive surgical procedure that targets the entire face. It typically involves a longer incision, lifting the skin, repositioning underlying tissues, and removing any excess skin. This approach addresses more advanced signs of aging such as significant sagging, deep wrinkles, and noticeable laxity along the jawline.

By contrast, a mini facelift is a lighter procedure that focuses on specific areas of the face. It uses smaller incisions or stitches and is often performed under local anesthesia. This method is best suited for treating early signs of aging—such as mild sagging, fine wrinkles, or slight looseness in the jawline.

In short, a full facelift provides a broader rejuvenation, while a mini facelift offers a subtler improvement with less invasiveness. The right choice depends on the severity of aging signs and the patient’s expectations.

What Is a Liquid Facelift?

A liquid facelift is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure designed to give the face a younger, firmer appearance by injecting specialized dermal fillers beneath the skin.

Most commonly, hyaluronic acid fillers are used. Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture and restore volume. During the procedure, the filler is strategically injected under the skin to support facial structures, tighten contours, and smooth wrinkles.

The results are not permanent—the effect fades as the filler is naturally broken down by the body, and maintenance sessions are needed at regular intervals to preserve the look.

Common Treatment Areas for a Liquid Facelift:

  • Wrinkles: Helps soften fine lines such as crow’s feet and forehead creases.
  • Sagging Skin: Improves mild skin laxity and reduces drooping.
  • Cheek Enhancement: Restores volume loss in the cheeks, reducing hollowness and defining the cheekbones.
  • Lips: Adds fullness to thin lips or replenishes volume lost with age.

A liquid facelift offers visible, natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime—making it a popular option for those who want a refreshed appearance without surgery.

Do you have any questions?

EBOPRAS approved plastic surgeon MD. Güray Yeşiladalı is also a member of ISAPS and ASAPS.

What Is the Thread Lift Method?

The thread lift method is commonly used on areas such as the face, neck, brows, jawline, and around the eyes. During the procedure, fine threads are inserted beneath the skin using special needles under local anesthesia. These threads anchor to the underlying tissues and, when tightened, lift the skin—helping reduce sagging and create a firmer, more youthful appearance.

The threads are typically made from either dissolvable or permanent materials. Dissolvable threads are gradually absorbed by the body over time, while permanent ones can deliver longer-lasting results. Although the effects of dissolvable threads are temporary, they can still provide a visible improvement with minimal downtime.

Thread lifting is considered a minimally invasive procedure and does not require traditional surgery, making it an appealing choice for those seeking subtle yet noticeable lifting effects.

HIFU Non-Surgical Facelift

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-surgical skin-tightening method that uses concentrated sound waves to stimulate tissue repair and collagen production. The term “focused ultrasound” refers to directing these sound waves deep into the skin’s foundational layers, promoting firming and lifting without incisions.

The effects of HIFU usually become noticeable within a few months after treatment and can vary from person to person. Over time, the stimulated collagen production enhances skin tightness and elasticity, often leading to progressively better results in the months following the procedure.
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