How Facelift Surgery Can Help Address Signs of Facial Ageing

Facial ageing is a gradual process that affects everyone differently. Over time, changes in skin, muscle, fat and bone can alter the way the face looks. While these changes are an expected part of life, some individuals consider surgery if they feel their appearance no longer reflects how they feel. For those seeking a surgical option, a Facelift may be considered.

Understanding Facial Ageing

Facial ageing is a complex process that often begins in the late 30s and continues gradually over time. Multiple changes occur in the skin, underlying tissues and skeletal structure, contributing to the overall appearance of facial ageing. These changes can include:

Reduced Collagen and Elastane Production

Collagen and elastin are essential proteins that support the skin’s structure and flexibility. Collagen provides strength and firmness, while elastin allows the skin to stretch and return to its original shape. From early adulthood, the production of these proteins gradually decreases, which can lead to reduced elasticity, thinning of the skin and the development of fine lines.

The reduction of both collagen and elastin, along with changes in fat distribution and muscle support beneath the skin often result in changes to texture, tone and tightness as we age.

Skin Laxity

Skin laxity develops over time due to gradual changes in the skin’s structure and support. As mentioned above the body produces less collagen and elastin with age, which reduces firmness and elasticity.

Reduced support from fat and muscle beneath the skin, as well as a decreased ability to retain moisture, can make the skin appear thinner and more fragile.

It can also lead to a deepening of the nasolabial folds (between the nose and mouth) and marionette lines (running downward from the mouth).

Volume Loss

Decreases in volume due to either ageing or weight loss can change the overall shape and structure of the face, making certain areas appear flatter or hollow. This can lead to the appearance of excess skin as it no longer has the same underlying support. Volume loss can affect the cheeks, temples and under-eye area, contributing to an aged appearance.

Bone structure changes

As part of the ageing process skeletal changes can also occur. Over time, bone density may reduce and the overall structure of the face can shift. These changes can influence the shape and proportions of the face, particularly in areas such as the eye sockets, jawline and midface.

All of the above changes are an expected part of the ageing process. However, factors like sun exposure, smoking and genetics can accelerate these changes. These changes do not affect everyone in the same way, but they can contribute to an appearance that some people find concerning.

How Facelift Surgery May Addresses Facial Ageing

Facelift surgery is designed to target the structural changes that occur in the face over time, including skin laxity, loss of facial volume and changes in the underlying tissues. Rather than focusing solely on the surface of the skin, a Facelift can address deeper layers to help support the facial structure. A Facelift may help address facial ageing by:

  1. Repositioning underlying tissues: The procedure can lift and reposition the deeper layers beneath the skin, such as the SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System), which can help provide support to areas of concern.
  2. Reducing excess skin: Skin that has stretched over time can be removed or redraped, helping to smooth lines and folds and reduce the appearance of jowls.
  3. Alter facial proportions: By adjusting the underlying tissues and skin, a Facelift can help increase facial balance and proportions, particularly around the cheeks, jawline and neck.
  4. Addressing specific areas: Different techniques allow surgeons to target particular regions, such as the mid-face (cheeks and under-eye area), lower face (jawline and jowls), or neck, depending on the patient’s individual facial ageing and areas of concern.

Types of Facelift Surgery

There are several different Facelift procedures, each designed to address specific concerns, facial anatomy and stages of ageing.

  • Full Facelift: A Full Facelift addresses moderate to advanced facial ageing, targeting both skin laxity and the underlying layer called the Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System (SMAS). This procedure allows for comprehensive repositioning of underlying tissues and removal of excess skin.
  • Partial Facelift: A Partial Facelift is a less extensive version of the Full/SMAS Facelift. It involves shorter incisions and less manipulation of the SMAS layer. This procedure may be recommended for those with early signs of ageing or for older patients who prefer a more moderate change.
  • Mid-Facelift: The Mid-Facelift focuses on the cheeks and under-eye area. It lifts and repositions mid-face fat pads to alter cheek definition and reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds.
  • Lower Facelift: A Lower Facelift targets the jawline, chin and neck area. It can help address jowls and excess neck skin. In some cases, it may be performed alongside a Neck Lift for a more comprehensive result.
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Dr Kode does not perform the Deep Plane Facelift.
  • Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty): Although not technically a Facelift, a Neck Lift is often performed alongside Facelift procedures. It involves tightening the neck muscles and removing excess skin and fat for a firmer neck profile.

During a consultation, Dr Kode will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your personal goals and provide guidance on whether surgery is suitable and which technique may be most appropriate for your needs.

Who is a Suitable Candidate?

Facelift surgery may be considered for individuals experiencing:

  • Reduced skin elasticity resulting in excess skin around the lower face and neck
  • Deep facial lines and wrinkles, particularly around the mouth and nose
  • Volume loss in the mid-face and cheeks
  • Softened jawline definition
  • Localised fat deposits or excess skin under the chin
  • Significant weight loss resulting in excess facial skin

Suitability for Facelift surgery depends on several factors, including overall health, skin quality and realistic expectations. Adults in good health who do not smoke and who understand the potential outcomes and risks may be suitable candidates. A consultation with a specialist plastic surgeon like Dr Gary Kode is essential to determine if this procedure is appropriate.

Risks and Considerations

Like all surgical procedures, a Facelift carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve injury, or changes in sensation.

Dr Kode will discuss potential risks and complications during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. Visit our Risks and Complications page for more information.

Recovery and Results

Recovery after Facelift surgery differs from person to person, but most individuals need to allow time for rest and healing. Bruising and swelling typically resolve over a few weeks, although full recovery will take longer. Results can last for several years, though the ageing process continues and further changes may occur with time.

Consultation with Dr Gary Kode

A Facelift is a significant procedure and requires careful consideration. If you are considering Facelift surgery or have concerns about facial ageing and what to learn more about your options we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne and Launceston.

Each Facelift procedure performed by Dr Kode is tailored to the patient’s unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. In some cases, a Facelift may be performed alongside other procedures such as a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty), Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery), or Brow Lift (Browplasty) for a more comprehensive result.

For more information, please visit Facelift Melbourne |Dr Gary Kode Australia or schedule a consultation with Dr Kode.

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