Facelift Structural rejuvenation with naturalness and proportions

Cervicofacial lifting is one of the most effective procedures to counteract the relaxation of the facial and neck tissues, restoring definition to the contours and harmony to the overall face. As time passes, the deeper layers loosen, the skin loses elasticity, and the face tends to take on a tired or heavy appearance.

The procedure specifically targets these structures, restoring the original position of the deep tissues (SMAS) and redefining the jawline and neck profile, without altering the face’s identity.

Facelift surgery is indicated for cases of ptosis of the middle and lower third of the face, loss of mandibular definition, cervical bands, excess skin, or soft tissue sagging. The goal is not to “tighten the skin” but to restore support and naturalness, for a harmonious and credible result even up close.

The treatment is personalized: every face tells a different story and deserves a correction tailored to its proportions, to achieve a rejuvenating effect that is authentic and never artificial

Evaluation and personalized plan

The first phase of the process is the morphological evaluation of the face. During the visit, the surgeon carefully analyzes the various anatomical levels involved: the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS), skin quality, fat distribution, platisma muscle tone, and the underlying bone structure.

From this analysis, a personalized plan is created, which defines the direction, intensity, and vectors of the pulls, always respecting the natural expression lines.

In many cases, the facelift is combined with complementary procedures, such as lipostructure (to restore volume to emptied areas) or submental liposuction (to improve the neck profile and mandibular angle).

The goal is global rejuvenation and proportionate improvement, enhancing the overall appearance of the face while maintaining its authenticity.

Surgical technique

Facelift surgery involves thin and well-hidden incisions along the natural folds of the skin, typically in front of and behind the ear, with a possible extension in the temporal area if necessary.

Through these incisions, the surgeon lifts and reshapes the deep facial layers, working on the SMAS through pleating or advancement to reposition the tissues in a stable and lasting way.

For the neck, a platysmaplasty (reshaping of the platysma muscle) may be performed to address cervical sagging. After the tissue is lifted and any excess skin removed, thin sutures are applied, and temporary drains may be used to prevent fluid accumulation.

The procedure typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the extent and associated techniques.

Anesthesia, recovery, and risks

Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, either in an outpatient setting or with an overnight stay. At the end, the face may show swelling and bruising, which tend to reduce over the first week.

After 10-14 days, most patients can resume normal activities, while full social recovery generally occurs between 14 and 21 days, depending on the type of surgery and individual response.

The scars are thin and placed in strategic areas — along the hairline and in the pre- and post-auricular folds — making them invisible even up close.

Common risks associated with any surgery may include hematomas, skin discomfort (more frequent in smokers), or temporary sensory-motor changes, which resolve spontaneously.

Carefully following post-operative instructions is crucial to ensure proper healing and stability of the result over time.

Frequently asked questions from patients

Will I look “pulled”?
No. Modern facelifts do not simply stretch the skin but work on the deeper muscle layers (SMAS), allowing for a natural, harmonious, and credible rejuvenation.

How long will the result last?
The effects of the facelift last for several years. Duration may vary depending on skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle, but the face will continue to appear fresher and more defined compared to the natural passage of time.

Will the scars be visible?
The incisions are carefully placed along the hairline and around the ear, where the natural lines of the face make them nearly imperceptible. Over time, they become thin and barely noticeable.Facelift surgery for the face and neck is a structural rejuvenation procedure that does not aim to change the features but to restore balance and freshness. Thanks to modern techniques on the SMAS and platysmaplasty, it is now possible to achieve lasting and natural results, respecting the face’s expressiveness and maintaining harmonious proportions between the face and neck.