With time the deeper layer of the face (the SMAS) and the skin lose their support: the cheeks descend, jowls form along the jawline, the fold from nose to mouth deepens and the neck skin loosens. Creams, Botox and fillers soften the surface but cannot lift tissue that has dropped.
A Facelift repositions the deeper tissue and removes the excess skin; a Neck Lift does the same for the neck and jawline, and the two are usually combined. The aim is a rested, natural version of your own face, not a different one.
What a Facelift Addresses
- Jowls and loss of a clean jawline
- Deep nose-to-mouth and marionette folds
- Loose, hanging skin and bands in the neck
- Descended cheeks and a hollow look under the cheekbones
- Early wrinkles and crow's feet, as part of the overall rejuvenation
How the Surgery Is Done
Incisions start in the hairline at the temple, follow the natural crease in front of the ear, pass behind the ear lobe and end in the hair behind the ear, so the scars sit at the edges of the face. Through these the deeper SMAS layer is tightened and repositioned and the skin is re-draped without tension. For the neck, a small incision under the chin allows the muscle bands to be tightened and excess fat removed.
Facelift and Neck Lift are done under general anaesthesia as a day-care procedure. Fat Grafting to the cheeks and temples is often added to restore lost volume.
Recovery
A light dressing is worn for the first day or two. Bruising and swelling are at their peak at 2–3 days and largely settle by two weeks, when most people are comfortable returning to work and social life; strenuous exercise waits for about four weeks. Numbness around the ears is normal for a few weeks. Scars fade over 6–12 months and are hidden by hair and the natural creases.
Facelift or Non-Surgical Treatment?
In the early stages of ageing, Botox, fillers, nanofat and skin treatments can be enough. Once tissue has descended, a Facelift is the only treatment that lifts it. A mini-lift with shorter scars suits early jowling; a full face and Neck Lift suits more advanced change. The consultation is about matching the procedure to the degree of ageing and to the recovery time you can afford.
Risks and Limitations
Bleeding under the skin, infection, delayed healing behind the ear (especially in smokers), temporary weakness of a facial nerve branch, numbness and visible scarring are the recognised risks and are discussed before surgery. A Facelift does not stop ageing; it resets the clock, and the face continues to age naturally from the new starting point.
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Part of Facial Plastic Surgery in Bangalore — see the overview for the full range of procedures, including those without a dedicated page.
Need More Information?
Call +91 95355 81616, email connect@drvybhavderaje.com or book an appointment online .
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Facelift done as a day-care procedure?
Yes. Facelift and Neck Lift are done under general anaesthesia and most patients go home the same day.
Where are the scars after a Facelift?
In the hairline at the temple, in the crease in front of the ear, behind the ear lobe and in the hair behind the ear — placed to hide the eventual scars. A small incision under the chin is used for the neck.
How long is recovery after a Facelift?
Bruising and swelling largely settle by two weeks, when most people return to work. Strenuous activity is avoided for about four weeks and scars continue to fade for 6–12 months.
How long does a Facelift last?
The face keeps ageing from the new starting point, but the improvement is long-lasting — commonly many years. Sun protection, not smoking and a stable weight help preserve it.
Can I have Botox or fillers instead of a Facelift?
In early ageing, yes — they soften lines and restore volume. Once the cheeks have descended and jowls have formed, only a Facelift lifts the tissue; non-surgical treatments can still complement it.
Is a consultation a commitment to surgery?
No. Use the consultation to understand your options, alternatives, limitations and recovery, then take the time you need to decide.
This page is general information written by Dr Vybhav Deraje for patients and families. It does not replace an individual consultation; treatment plans depend on clinical assessment.