face procedures
Face and Neck Lift
What is Face and Neck Lift Surgery?
A facelift also known as rhytidectomy and a necklift also known as a lower rhytidectomy (and platysmaplasty / cervicoplasty) are procedures designed to address signs of ageing in the mid-lower face and neck.
A face and neck lift can be performed as a standalone procedure or alongside other facial procedures, such as fat grafting, brow lift, blepharoplasty and lip lift. Face and neck lift procedures include Deep plane lifts, Isolated Neck Lift / Contouring / Reduction, Early Maintenance Facelift, Mini Lift and Endoscopic Lifts.
Why Have a Face and Neck Lift?
As we age, the skin loses elasticity, facial and neck muscles begin to slacken, and facial volume deflates and becomes disproportionate to a youthful contour. This creates several age-related stigmata, such as:
- excess skin and wrinkles
- sagging and drooping of cheeks
- midface sagging and malar deflation
- prominent nasolabial and melolabial folds
- heavy or saddened mouth appearance
- jowls
- loss of facial volume
- neck bands
- turkey neck
- loss of jawline definition
These changes can be due to ageing or following recent weight loss or a genetic predisposition.
The rate at which these changes occur varies from person to person and is likely influenced by genetic factors. The stress of daily life, the pull of gravity, smoking and sun exposure further impact the ageing process of the face. The ageing of the face may not necessarily align with the ageing of the rest of the body and mind, leading to a disconnect between the face in the mirror and one’s perceived self.
The goal of treatment is to achieve a rejuvenated appearance without appearing overtly altered, resulting in a younger, healthier and fresher look. It addresses and tightens loose or sagging skin, enhances muscle tone, cheek, jawline and neck definition and restores a more youthful face and neck contour.
What is SMAS Surgery?
Surgical treatment is always tailored and customised to each individual concern. There are a variety of ways through which a face can be rejuvenated – SMAS based surgical techniques. These specialised techniques involve releasing all tethering points in the face and neck and between muscle layers – referenced as ‘deep plane’ surgery. This removes tension on the subsequent lift, generating redundant skin which is removed and closed in a different vector. These techniques contribute to rejuvenated, natural, fresher, harmonious and long-lasting results
How is Face and Neck Lift Surgery Performed?
There are different techniques for face and neck lifts and each person is different and should be customised to suit you. The main difference comes with where the incisions are made. Face and neck lift procedures include SMAS based – ‘Deep plane’ lifts, other SMAS based facelifts and Isolated Neck Lift / Contouring / Reduction.
A facelift procedure involves the raising and repositioning of the skin and soft tissue on the face. The surgical incisions are made on both sides of the face, starting in front of the ear and extending up along the hairline, either in front of or behind the cartilage. The incisions also extend behind the earlobe and into the crease behind the ear, continuing into the lower scalp. In some cases, a small incision may be made under the chin for the neck lift portion of the surgery. The SMAS and facial volume are entered, released, lifted and then secured internally. The neck muscles and volumes are lifted and contoured. This generates excess loose skin, which is then precisely removed and carefully closed.
Our Doctors
Michael McBride FRCS (Plast)
