With age, the skin loses its elasticity, mimic lines deepen and sagging facial contours occur. The effects of this natural process can be aesthetically and psychologically disturbing for many people. Today, it is one of the most commonly used methods for those who want to reverse these effects: Face lift surgery.
So, how young does facelift surgery really make you look? How long do the effects last? Who is it suitable for and how natural are the results? In this article, we take a detailed look at facelift surgery and examine how this procedure can rejuvenate you physically and mentally.
What is Facelift Surgery and at What age is it Preferred?
Face lift is a surgical aesthetic procedure performed to reduce the signs of aging. The muscle tissue and connective tissues under the skin are tightened, excess skin is removed and the face is restored to a younger form.
Although it is generally preferred by individuals aged 40 and over, this age range may vary depending on the skin type, genetic factors, lifestyle and aging rate of the person. Facelift surgery gives effective results, especially in cases where visible sagging, significant decreases in the jaw line and loosening in the neck area begin.
However, in recent years, the trend of rejuvenation with less invasive applications such as facelift or mini facelift at an earlier age (between 35-40) is rapidly increasing.
How Many Years Younger Does Facelift Surgery Make You Look?
One of the most curious questions: How many years younger does facelift surgery make you look?
Although the answer to this question depends on personal variables, in general, a facelift operation can make an individual look 8 to 12 years younger.
The rejuvenation effect achieved may vary according to the following factors:
- Skin type and quality
- Level of aging
- Technique applied (full face lift, mini face lift, neck lift, etc.)
- Surgeon's experience
- Post-operative care process
In other words, a person looking in the mirror after a successful facelift operation may feel as if he/she has returned to his/her past self.
Before and After Facelift: What is the Real Change?
There is a visible, dramatic difference between before and after facelift surgery. Before the surgery, signs of aging such as sagging cheeks, jawline uncertainty and loosening in the neck area are evident. After the operation, the facial oval is reshaped, the jaw line becomes clearer and sharper, the cheek and neck area is lifted, and the skin looks smoother and younger.
Moreover, with the techniques developed today, it is possible to achieve a natural and understated rejuvenation. People may tell you that you look rested and fit, not that you have had aesthetics.
How to Reduce Signs of Aging on the Face?
Facelift is one of the most effective methods to reduce the signs of aging. However, in order to get the best result from the procedure, the aging process of the face should be analyzed well. Signs of aging are generally seen in the following areas:
- Forehead and eyebrows: Mimic lines and drooping
- Eye contour: Bags, wrinkles
- Cheeks: Sagging and loss of volume
- Jawline: Uncertainty and “jowl” appearance
- Neck: Sagging skin and lines
Facelift surgery provides a youthful appearance by restoring the skin and tissue structure in these areas. If necessary, this procedure can be supported by procedures such as eyelid aesthetics (blepharoplasty), fat injection or filling.
How Long Does the Effect of Facelift Surgery Last? Is It Permanent?
Although the results of facelift surgery are long-term, they are not permanent as the aging process continues. However, the effect usually lasts between 7 and 15 years. The duration of the effect may vary depending on the person's genetic structure, skin quality, lifestyle (smoking, nutrition, sun exposure, etc.) and postoperative care.
In other words, a facelift performed with the right technique can make you look years younger. In addition, even if signs of aging reappear over time, your face will never return to its non-surgical state; a more advantageous appearance is always maintained.
Is a Natural Look Possible with Facelift Surgery?
In the past, facelift surgeries could cause an artificial appearance without facial expressions. However, with the modern techniques used today, it is possible to achieve rejuvenation without distorting the facial expression.
The following are important for a natural facelift:
- Correct positioning of muscles and connective tissues
- Not overstretching the skin
- Surgeon's knowledge of anatomy and aesthetic approach
- Planning in accordance with the proportions of the face
Thanks to the face and neck lift surgery performed by a good surgeon, those around you will only say “You look so good!” but will not understand what you have done. This is already the most desired result
