Facelift

Step 1 – Anaesthesia

Facelift surgery can be performed under intravenous sedation with local anaesthetic or general anaesthesia. Dr Ching will discuss the most suitable option based on your comfort and the complexity of the procedure.

Several complementary treatments can further enhance the results of a facelift. These may include:

• Fat transfer to restore lost facial volume and enhance contour
• Skin rejuvenation techniques such as Tixel, Morpheus8, or Laser to improve tone and texture
• Wrinkle reduction through fine-tuned injection of fat or dermal fillers

Step 2 – The Incision

Depending on your individual needs, facelift options include a conventional (SMAS) facelift, a deep plane facelift, a mini-facelift, or a neck lift.

In a traditional SMAS facelift, the incision typically begins at the temple hairline, continues around the ear, and ends in the lower scalp. The skin is gently lifted, and the underlying SMAS layer (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) is tightened to redefine the jawline and neck. Fat may be removed or repositioned to improve contour, and excess skin is trimmed for a smoother finish.

In a deep plane facelift, the surgeon works beneath the SMAS layer, releasing and lifting the deeper muscles and fat pads as a single unit. This approach addresses midface sagging more effectively and provides a more natural, longer-lasting rejuvenation.

Occasionally, a small incision beneath the chin may be added to refine the neck and jawline further.
For patients with mild to moderate laxity, a mini-facelift offers subtle improvement with shorter scars and quicker recovery. A neck lift can be performed at the same time to tighten loose skin and reduce fat deposits under the chin and jaw.

Step 3 – Closing the Incisions

The incisions are closed with fine sutures, many of which dissolve naturally. Once healed, the scars are well-concealed within the hairline and along the natural contours of the ears and face. Whether performed as a conventional or deep plane technique, the goal is a natural, balanced result with minimal visible scarring.

Step 4 – See the Results

As swelling and bruising subside, the rejuvenated contours of your facelift become visible. Both deep plane and conventional facelifts deliver a firmer, smoother, and more youthful facial appearance, helping restore definition and confidence.

For even greater enhancement, complementary procedures can be added:

• Fat transfer for volume restoration
• Energy-based skin tightening with Tixel, Morpheus8, or Laser
• Wrinkle refinement using fillers or fat injections

Your final results should appear natural and refreshed—helping you look like yourself, only younger and well-rested.

After facelift surgery, a bandage is placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. Drains are generally not used.

Specific instructions need to b followed to look after the wounds. Medications are prescribed for pain and to avoid infections. Dr Ching will see you one week after surgery or earlier if there are any problems.

While most patients can venture out to the public within 7-10 days, it can take 3-4 months for your face to feel normal regarding sensibility, texture, and tightness.

Sun protection daily, a good skin regimen and a healthy lifestyle will extend your facelift results.

As swelling and bruising decrease, the improvements of a facelift appear. Your final result will produce a more youthful and rested appearance and help you feel more confident.

With facelift surgery, good results are expected, but there are no guarantees. In some cases, a single surgical procedure may not be possible, and another surgery may be necessary to obtain optimal results.

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