Endoscopic deep plane facelift

That is our most important goal. At Caolín we work in the deeper tissue layers rather than simply tightening the skin. This gives a very natural and long-lasting result. At the consultation, and again in the conversation on the day of surgery, we go through your wishes for how big a change you want.

Many patients have had filler in the face before a facelift. In principle this is not a problem, but if you have a lot of filler in the face during the surgery, it will be harder to predict the final result once the filler has been reabsorbed. Tissue containing filler also often becomes more irritated after surgery, which can lead to slightly more swelling afterwards. So if you have a lot of filler in the face, we always recommend having it dissolved before a facelift.

SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) is the deeper layer of muscle and connective tissue beneath the skin. The modern facelift, the deep plane facelift, works beneath this layer to achieve a natural and long-lasting result, rather than simply tightening the skin, which lasts for a shorter time and risks an artificial look.

The result develops gradually over 3–6 months. Most people see a clear and positive difference within the first few weeks, even in the middle of the healing process.

The result of a facelift is long-lasting. The ageing process continues naturally, but from a new, lifted starting point. Smoking, sun exposure and fluctuating weight are the factors that have the greatest negative impact on skin ageing.

Desk-based work can typically be resumed after 1–2 weeks. Most people are socially presentable after 2–3 weeks, once the worst of the swelling has subsided. Sport and strenuous activity should be avoided for approx. 6 weeks.

Stopping smoking for at least 4–6 weeks is by far the most important. Smoking markedly reduces blood circulation and seriously increases the risk of complications. Blood-thinning medication and certain herbal remedies must be paused. You will be guided thoroughly through all the preparation advice once your surgery date has been set.

The endoscopic facelift is typically gentler and has a shorter downtime than an open facelift. The first few days are the most demanding. Swelling, tightness and discolouration of the face are to be expected and subside gradually. Keep your head slightly raised and avoid activities that raise your blood pressure for the first 2 weeks.

− Time off work: Typically 1–2 weeks.

− Socially presentable: Most people are ready for social situations after 2–3 weeks.

− Sport and strenuous activity: Avoid for 6 weeks.

− Sun on the scars: Avoid for at least 12 months, use at least SPF 50.

− Final result: Seen gradually over 3–6 months, as the swelling subsides and the tissue settles.

A successful facelift lasts a long time, but the face continues to age from a new, lifted starting point. Smoking, sun exposure and significant weight fluctuations are the factors that have the greatest negative impact on skin ageing.

A facelift is a well-proven procedure, but like all surgery it carries risks. The most relevant are bleeding, infection, asymmetry, temporary or permanent nerve effects, unsightly scarring and wound-healing problems. The risk of serious complications is low, but rises significantly with smoking.

Every treatment journey at Caolín starts with a thorough, no-obligation consultation. We take the time to talk about your wishes, assess your anatomy and give you honest advice about what is possible and what will give the most natural and harmonious result for you.

You are welcome to bring someone with you, and you can always contact us with questions along the way.