Plastic Surgery

Facelift

Repositioning deeper facial layers and skin for jowls and neck laxity that injectables cannot honestly treat.

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Procedure time
Usually 3–5 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Time in Istanbul
Typically 10–14 nights
Back to desk work
Often after 2–3 weeks
Overview

About Facelift

A facelift repositions the deeper tissues of the lower face and neck and removes excess skin to improve jowls, deep folds and sagging. Incisions usually run in front of and behind the ear, partly within the hairline.

A facelift addresses sagging rather than skin texture or fine lines. It is often combined with a neck lift and sometimes with eyelid or brow surgery.

Suitability

Who it may be suitable for

  • Sagging in the lower face and jawline, such as jowls
  • Loose skin in the neck
  • Good skin elasticity and bone structure
  • Good general health, a stable weight and no smoking, or willingness to stop

These are general points only. Whether an operation is suitable for you is decided by the treating surgeon after an in-person examination, your medical history and any tests they request.

The process

How it works

  1. Remote review

    You share photos and your medical history. The surgeon gives a first opinion on whether the operation is suitable and what it could realistically achieve.

  2. Consultation in Istanbul

    The surgeon examines you in person, confirms the plan, explains the risks and arranges pre-operative tests before you give consent.

  3. Surgery

    Under general anaesthesia, the deeper facial layers are lifted and secured, excess skin is removed and the incisions are closed.

  4. Check before you fly

    The surgeon reviews healing before you travel home, and you receive written aftercare instructions and remote follow-up.

Aftercare

What to expect and aftercare

  1. First week

    Swelling and bruising are at their peak. You sleep with your head raised, use cold compresses as advised and avoid bending and heavy lifting.

  2. Days 5–10

    Stitches are usually removed and much of the bruising fades. Some people feel comfortable in public with light make-up.

  3. Weeks 2–6

    Most visible swelling settles, though some tightness or numbness can remain. Exercise is resumed gradually.

  4. Months 3–12

    Residual swelling resolves and scars fade. The final result is usually judged after several months.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Good to know

Risks and considerations

  • Temporary numbness of the cheeks and ears is common. Injury to facial nerves is rare and usually temporary.
  • A collection of blood under the skin (haematoma) is the most common early complication and may need treatment.
  • Hair loss near incisions and visible scarring can occur.
  • Smoking and nicotine products significantly increase the risk of wound-healing problems. Most surgeons ask you to stop for several weeks before and after surgery.
  • Results take months to settle and cannot be guaranteed. Some people need a revision procedure.
FAQ

Common questions

How long does a facelift last?

Results often last many years, but the face continues to age. Most people still look younger than they would have without surgery.

Will I look different?

The aim is a refreshed version of your own face, not a different one. A natural result depends on careful planning.

How long should I stay in Istanbul after surgery?

It depends on the operation. Many are planned around one to two weeks so the surgeon can check you and remove stitches or drains before you fly. Flying soon after surgery raises the risk of blood clots, so your surgeon confirms when it is safe to travel.

How is the cost decided?

The price depends on the operation the surgeon recommends after examining you, the hospital stay and any combined procedures. You receive a written, itemised quote before anything is booked, with no obligation to proceed.

Related treatments
Next step

Talk to a coordinator about Facelift

Share your details and a coordinator will reply with clear next steps. There is no obligation to proceed.

This page is general information, not medical advice; a treating clinician confirms your plan after assessment. ELAVIA Global coordinates care; clinical evaluation and treatment are delivered by independent, licensed partner facilities and their specialists.