An individual approach to facial rejuvenation

A facelift aims to improve sagging around the lower face and redefine the jawline by lifting and repositioning facial tissues.

At Brits Medical and Cosmetic Service (BMACS), a consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand the available options and explore whether surgery is appropriate for you.

Book a consultation to discuss your facial rejuvenation options with BMACS.

A facelift, also called a rhytidectomy, is an operation that addresses loose skin and sagging tissues, particularly around the cheeks, jawline and lower face.

Depending on the technique, surgery involves repositioning deeper supporting tissues and removing excess skin. A neck lift may be considered alongside it where neck laxity is also a concern.

The aim is a refreshed appearance that respects your facial features. Results vary, and a particular outcome cannot be guaranteed.

Facelift surgery may help address:

• Jowls and reduced jawline definition.
• Sagging tissues in the lower face.
• Loose facial skin.
• Some deeper folds associated with tissue descent.

A facelift does not stop ageing or treat every aspect of facial appearance. Fine surface lines, pigmentation, sun damage, forehead changes and eyelid concerns may require different treatments.

The appropriate operation depends on your anatomy, skin quality, degree of tissue laxity and treatment goals.

A more limited or “mini” facelift may be considered for selected patients with less extensive changes. Other patients may require a more comprehensive procedure or a combined face and neck lift.

Terms such as “mini facelift” can describe different operations. Your surgeon should explain exactly which tissues will be treated, the likely scars and the limitations of the proposed technique.

A surgical facelift and a suture or thread lift are different procedures.

Surgery involves incisions and more extensive tissue repositioning. Suture lifts use threads to support selected tissues and have different indications, risks and duration of effect. They should not be presented as providing equivalent results.

Your consultation should establish which approach, if any, is suitable for your concerns.

Your surgeon will explain the incision placement, tissues being treated and type of anaesthetic proposed.

Depending on the operation and your circumstances, local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthetic may be considered. Whether you can return home the same day depends on the procedure and your recovery.

You will receive instructions about preparation, transport home and any support needed afterwards.

Suitability depends on your overall health, medical history, skin condition and expectations.

Tell your surgeon about medication, supplements, previous facial treatments, smoking and nicotine use. These details can affect surgical planning, bleeding risk and wound healing.

You should understand the recovery involved and have realistic expectations about scars, symmetry and the changes surgery can achieve.

Your consultation should cover:

• Your priorities and the changes you would like to explore.
• An examination of your face and neck.
• The proposed technique and alternatives, including no treatment.
• The surgeon’s qualifications and experience.
• The anaesthetic, treatment setting and recovery arrangements.
• Risks, aftercare and how complications would be managed.
• A written quotation explaining what is included.

You should have time to reflect and ask questions without pressure to proceed.

Swelling, bruising, tightness and temporary numbness are common after surgery. You may need dressings and follow-up appointments to check healing and remove stitches where necessary.

Plan time away from work and social commitments. Your surgeon will advise when you can drive, exercise, wash your hair and return to your usual activities.

Early swelling can temporarily affect your appearance. The result becomes clearer over several months as tissues settle and scars mature.

Possible complications include:

• Bleeding or a collection of blood beneath the skin.
• Infection and delayed wound healing.
• Noticeable scars or skin loss.
• Changes in sensation.
• Nerve injury causing temporary or permanent facial weakness.
• Asymmetry or changes to the ears, hairline or hair growth around incisions.
• Blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia.

Further treatment or corrective surgery may sometimes be needed. Your surgeon should explain your individual risks and any associated costs before you decide.

Discuss facelift surgery and its alternatives in a consultation tailored to your facial anatomy and preferences.

Visit bmacs.org.uk⁠ to request a consultation.

Treatment is subject to clinical assessment and suitability. All surgery carries risks, and results vary between individuals.