Full Face Lift in Turkey

A full face lift (also known as a rhytidectomy) is a comprehensive procedure that lifts and repositions the tissues of the face to reverse the visible signs of ageing. It addresses the entire face from the temples down to the jawline.

The key to a modern face lift is working on the deeper tissue layer called the SMAS. Rather than simply pulling the skin tight, which can create an unnatural, "windswept" look, your surgeon lifts and repositions the SMAS layer, which restores the natural contour and support of the face. The skin then drapes naturally over the improved foundation.

A full face lift can address:

• Deep nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth)
• Sagging cheeks and loss of midface volume
• Jowls along the jawline
• Loose, excess skin across the face
• A tired or aged appearance that does not reflect how you feel
• Loss of facial definition and contour

The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes 3-5 hours. Incisions are placed within the natural hairline at the temples, continuing in front of and behind the ear. Once healed, these incisions are virtually invisible.

A full face lift does not address the forehead, brows, or eyelids, these are treated with separate procedures that can be combined if desired.

A full face lift may be right for you if:

• You have noticeable sagging, jowls, or deep folds across the face
• Your facial skin and tissues have lost firmness and definition
• You want a comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower two-thirds of the face
• You are in good general health and fit for general anaesthetic
• You are typically aged 45 or older, though this varies based on individual ageing
• You are a non-smoker, or willing to stop smoking at least 4-6 weeks before and after (smoking significantly affects healing)
• You have realistic expectations, the goal is a refreshed, natural-looking appearance, not a dramatically different face

During your consultation, your surgeon will assess the degree of ageing across your face and discuss whether a full face lift, mini face lift, or combination approach is most appropriate.

Before Your Procedure

Your journey starts with a free consultation, online, by phone, or at one of our UK consultation days. You will discuss your concerns, and your surgeon will assess your facial structure, skin quality, and degree of ageing.

Once you decide to proceed, you receive a treatment plan and pre-procedure instructions, including stopping smoking, avoiding blood-thinning medications, and arranging time off work.

During Your Stay in Turkey

Your VIP transfer takes you to your 5-star hotel. The next day, you attend the hospital for pre-procedure assessments, blood tests, photographs, and a detailed consultation. Surgical markings are made while you are sitting upright.

The full face lift is performed under general anaesthetic and takes 3-5 hours. Your surgeon lifts the SMAS layer, repositions the deeper tissues, removes excess skin, and closes the incisions with fine sutures. You stay in hospital for 1-2 nights with attentive nursing care. Your personal translator is with you throughout.

After Your Procedure

You will have a supportive dressing around your face. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid build-up and are typically removed after 1-2 days. Your surgeon checks your healing before you travel home. Sutures are removed in stages over 7-14 days. You receive detailed aftercare instructions and 12 months of support.

A full face lift has a longer recovery than smaller facial procedures, but most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable it is.

Day 1-3: Expect significant swelling and bruising across the face, particularly around the jawline and ears. This is normal. Your face will feel tight and firm. Drains, if placed, are removed within 1-2 days. Pain is managed with prescribed medication. Keep your head elevated at all times.

Day 3-7: Swelling begins to settle. Bruising changes colour as it fades. You may feel numbness across parts of your face, this is normal. Avoid bending forward, heavy lifting, or any strain.

Day 7-14: Sutures are removed in stages. You will see a noticeable improvement in your facial contour, even with residual swelling. Most patients feel comfortable going out by the end of week 2 with light makeup if desired.

Week 3-4: Most visible bruising has resolved. Swelling continues to improve. You can return to work and normal social activities. Avoid strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks.

Month 1-3: Residual swelling and tightness settle. Your facial contour continues to refine. Numbness gradually resolves.

Month 3-6: Your final result becomes fully apparent. The face looks naturally refreshed, lifted, and youthful, without looking "done."

A full face lift is a major procedure, but it is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures worldwide and has a well-established safety profile when performed by an experienced surgeon.

Common effects (expected and temporary):

• Significant swelling and bruising, resolves over 2-4 weeks
• Tightness and numbness across the face, temporary, improves over weeks to months
• Mild to moderate discomfort, managed with prescribed medication
• Temporary hair loss around the incision sites, hair typically regrows

Less common considerations:

• Haematoma (blood collection under the skin), the most common complication; typically managed with simple drainage
• Nerve injury causing temporary weakness, usually resolves within weeks
• Visible scarring, rare with experienced technique, as incisions follow natural hairline and ear contours
• Skin irregularities, uncommon, can be addressed during follow-up
• Infection, rare, minimised through sterile conditions and antibiotics

How your safety is managed: Your procedure takes place at a government-licensed, JCI-accredited hospital with full monitoring. Your surgeon specialises in face lift procedures. Overnight hospital care ensures any early concerns are addressed immediately. Your 12 months of aftercare provides ongoing support throughout your recovery.