Treatment
A facelift is a surgical procedure performed to rejuvenate the contours of the face and neck. This treatment addresses sagging skin, deeper folds (such as the nasolabial fold and marionette's groove), and drooping cheeks ("hamster cheeks"). This gives you a fresher, tighter appearance and makes you look 10 years younger on average.
Your plastic surgeon will discuss with you which technique is most suitable. Depending on your wishes and needs, you can choose from techniques such as the mini-lift, MACS lift or SMAS lift. In some cases, a facelift is combined with lipofilling, where lost volume in the face is replenished with your own fat tissue.
How does a facelift proceed?
A facelift targets not only the skin, but also the underlying muscle layers (SMAS technique). The result is natural and long-lasting :
- Preparation : the skin is cleaned and you are given a local anaesthetic.
- Skin and muscle tightening : the surgeon makes an incision in a natural crease in front of the ear, continuing into the head hair. Muscle layers are then tightened with lifting loops placed deep into the tissue.
- Excess skin removal : after skin tightening, excess tissue is removed. The incisions are closed with subcutaneous sutures and special skin glue.
- Neck and chin : if necessary, fat is removed via liposculpture to give the neck and chin a tight contour.
Who is a facelift suitable for?
From around 40 years of age, the skin starts to age visibly. This process is influenced by :
- Gravity : skin and underlying muscle layers are pulled down.
- Reduced elasticity : connective tissues in the skin become weaker.
- Volume loss : fat and muscle tissue between the skin and bone melts away. Stress, sunlight, smoking and heredity can accelerate these processes.
A facelift is suitable for people who suffer from :
- deep creases between nose, corners of mouth and cheeks.
- drooping cheeks or an upset jawline.
- excess skin on the neck.
See the before and after results of this treatment
Important information
Scar
A facelift uses modern techniques such as the MACS lift, where scars are minimal and almost invisible. Incisions are placed in natural folds (near the ear and in the hair). Only subcutaneous sutures and skin glue are used; there are no visible threads.
Possible risks
Temporary numbness in the skin around the ear. This usually recovers on its own within a few weeks to months.
Smokers are more at risk of slower healing and crusting. A smoking cessation before and after surgery is highly recommended.
Anaesthetic
Nowadays, a facelift is almost always performed under local anaesthesia, combined with a mild sedative (sedation).
Precautions
Before surgery : wash your hair thoroughly to minimise skin bacteria. Report the use of blood thinners, diabetes, or smoking to your surgeon.
During the procedure : the facelift is performed under local anaesthesia with a mild sedative if needed. You will be continuously monitored by qualified nurses.
After the procedure : you will receive your surgeon's personal mobile number for any questions or concerns.
Recovery
Day of surgery : you may go home the same day. Classic painkillers such as paracetamol are sufficient to combat discomfort.
First week : your face will be swollen and any bruising will be visible. You can work from home, but avoid social activities.
Second week : swelling subsides, and make-up can be used to even out the skin. You can resume your social life.
From the third week : the face normalises and you can return to full work.
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How an appointment at our clinic will proceed
At our clinic, we take a personal and expert approach to boost your self-confidence and achieve the best results.
Dr. Patrick Dedoncker
Certified plastic surgeon
Make an appointment
Simply schedule your appointment online or by phone. Choose a time that suits you and let us know your specific wishes or questions in advance.
Consultation
During the consultation, Dr. Patrick Dedoncker discusses your wishes and expectations. We perform a comprehensive analysis to draw up a personalised treatment plan.
Get to know
Meet recognised plastic surgeon Dr. Patrick Dedoncker, who will go through your treatment plan with you in detail. Together we determine the best approach for the desired result.
Treatment and care
Experience professional care and guidance, tailored to your needs. We make sure you feel comfortable and well-supported during and after treatment.
Contact us
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