Rhytidectomy

A SMAS Facelift repositions the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, a supportive tissue layer beneath the skin. Working with this layer allows the lift to rely less on skin tension and may support more balanced facial contours when appropriately planned.

A Deep Plane Facelift works beneath the SMAS layer to reposition connected facial tissues as a unit. It may be considered for selected patterns of midface descent and deeper folds, although suitability depends on facial anatomy and the surgeon’s assessment.

A Mini Facelift usually uses shorter incisions and a more limited lift focused on the lower face and early jowling. It may suit selected patients with mild to moderate laxity, but its possible benefits and limits should be considered alongside longer-term goals.

A Short Scar Facelift uses a reduced incision pattern, usually to address selected concerns in the lower face. Scar position and the amount of correction possible depend on facial anatomy, hairline features and the degree of tissue laxity.

A Midface Lift, sometimes called a cheek lift, addresses descent of the cheeks and the transition below the eyes in selected patients. It may be performed alone or combined with other facelift components when clinically appropriate.

A neck lift with facelift treats neck laxity, visible bands or excess skin alongside facial lifting. Combining these procedures may improve balance between the face and neck, but it also affects the extent of surgery, recovery planning and travel timing.

The surgeon reviews facial anatomy, skin quality, asymmetry and neck involvement. Incision placement and lift direction are planned around the hairline, ear position, tissue descent and the patient’s preferences regarding scars.

Depending on the selected technique, deeper layers such as the SMAS may be repositioned and secured. Excess skin is adjusted without relying on excessive surface tension. When a neck lift is included, neck tissues may be treated during the same operation.

The incisions are closed and dressings may be applied. Some surgeons use temporary drains, particularly when facial and neck surgery are combined. Early follow-up visits allow the clinical team to monitor healing and remove drains or sutures when appropriate.

• Share your full medical history, previous facial procedures and any bleeding or clotting concerns
• Review all medications and supplements with the surgeon and prescribing clinician before making changes
• Stop smoking or using nicotine products if advised because nicotine can interfere with healing
• Allow enough time away from work and social commitments for visible swelling and bruising to settle

• Choose accommodation within practical reach of the clinic for early follow-up visits
• Arrange a responsible support person for the first 24 to 48 hours when recommended
• Plan for limited activity and head elevation during the early recovery period
• Pack loose, comfortable clothing that does not need to be pulled over the head

Many patients arrive 1 to 2 days before surgery for an in-person consultation, consent and preoperative checks. The surgeon confirms the treatment plan, incision placement, anesthesia arrangements and early recovery instructions.

An overnight stay may be recommended depending on the clinic, anesthesia plan and extent of surgery. Patients should receive written instructions covering swelling, incision care, medications and warning signs that need prompt attention.

Follow-up visits are usually arranged during the first week. When drains are used, removal depends on drainage and the surgeon’s protocol. Sutures are removed according to incision location and healing progress.

Return travel timing depends on swelling, incision stability, general recovery and the surgeon’s assessment. Many patients plan approximately 10 to 14 days abroad, while a longer stay may be advised after more extensive surgery or when closer monitoring is needed.

Swelling, bruising and tightness are common. Temporary numbness may affect the ears, cheeks or scalp. Care usually focuses on rest, head elevation, incision care and attending scheduled follow-up appointments.

Depending on swelling, comfort and the surgeon’s advice, many patients gradually return to desk work and light routines during this period. Bruising often fades, although firmness, residual swelling and numbness may continue.

Facial contours often appear more settled as swelling continues to reduce. Scars begin to soften and sensation may improve gradually. Activity is usually increased step by step according to healing and clinical guidance.

Most swelling has usually resolved by this stage, although subtle changes and scar maturation can continue. Facelift results are generally assessed over time rather than during the early recovery period.

• Keep incisions clean and follow the clinic’s instructions for showering and washing your hair
• Avoid picking at scabs or applying products to healing wounds unless approved
• Protect scars from sun exposure after the surgeon confirms that it is appropriate
• Report increasing redness, warmth, swelling or discharge promptly

• Sleep with the head elevated and avoid early bending, straining or heavy lifting
• Delay strenuous exercise until the surgical team confirms that it is appropriate
• Avoid tight headwear, pressure over incisions and facial massage unless specifically instructed

• Request a written surgical summary and aftercare plan to share with a local clinician if needed
• Arrange remote check-ins to review healing, symptoms and scar care
• Confirm who to contact if new or concerning symptoms appear after travel

• Swelling, bruising and temporary numbness
• Visible scars and temporary firmness along incision lines
• Temporary asymmetry while swelling settles
• Changes in skin sensation around the ears, cheeks or scalp

• Hematoma or bleeding that may require additional treatment
• Infection
• Nerve injury that may affect facial movement
• Delayed wound healing or skin compromise, with a higher risk among smokers
• Hair loss near incision sites
• Blood clots, which are uncommon but potentially serious

Urgent medical assessment is needed for rapidly increasing swelling on one side, significant bleeding, fever, severe or worsening pain, spreading redness, shortness of breath, chest pain or sudden facial weakness. Patients recovering abroad or after travelling home should have clear instructions on where and how to seek help.

Turkey has a broad medical tourism infrastructure and many plastic surgery centers that work with international patients. Standards vary between providers, so patients should compare surgeon credentials, facility quality, anesthesia support, communication and the schedule for postoperative checks before choosing a clinic.

Iran has established medical training and experience in facial surgery. International patients considering treatment there should focus on the quality of consultation, scar planning, facility standards, communication and a clearly documented follow-up schedule during the stay and after returning home.