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Rhytidectomy Surgery Sydney

About the Procedure

Age-related changes in the face may include resorption of craniofacial skeletal structures, loss of subcutaneous fat, and decreased dermal elasticity. In combination, these factors can lead to soft tissue descent, the formation of rhytids and jowls, and a reduction in mandibular border definition.

What is Rhytidectomy?

Rhytidectomy, also referred to as meloplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address ptosis of the midface and lower face by repositioning soft tissues and excising redundant skin. Rather than relying solely on skin tension, this procedure involves repositioning of the underlying musculoaponeurotic system to restore volume and contour.

Dr Steven Liew (MED0001151298 FRACS) performs a deep plane rhytidectomy technique, which involves the mobilisation of deeper facial layers to achieve repositioning of soft tissues with reduced reliance on skin traction.

A Word from Dr Steven Liew

“My surgical approach focuses on restoring facial anatomy by repositioning descended tissues rather than creating tension on the skin. In my practice, I favour the deep plane rhytidectomy technique, which allows for comprehensive soft tissue elevation and volume restoration while maintaining natural facial dynamics.” Dr Steven Liew, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001151298 FRACS)

Disclaimer: Rhytidectomy is a complex surgical procedure and carries risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve injury, haematoma, asymmetry, and dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcomes. A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is essential to assess individual suitability and discuss potential risks, outcomes, and alternatives. A second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner is recommended prior to proceeding.

Results

Rhytidectomy may be considered for individuals with age-related changes such as soft tissue descent, dermal laxity, volume loss, and reduced bony support, which can contribute to the development of jowls, deep facial folds, and diminished jawline definition.

A multi-region facial rejuvenation approach addressing anatomical changes across the upper, mid, and lower thirds of the face.
Reposition and augment soft tissue structures to address age-related volume loss and contour changes.
Excise redundant skin and address soft tissue laxity associated with age-related dermal changes.

What to Expect from Rhytidectomy?

During your preoperative consultation, Dr Steven Liew (MED0001151298 FRACS) will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your facial anatomy, soft tissue distribution, and skin laxity to determine the most appropriate vector and extent of tissue repositioning.

Rhytidectomy involves the elevation and repositioning of facial soft tissues, including the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), followed by excision of redundant skin. In selected cases, volume restoration using autologous fat grafting or other adjunctive techniques may be incorporated to address age-related facial deflation.

This procedure is intended to address structural changes in the mid and lower face and is tailored to the individual’s anatomical needs and treatment goals.

Procedure Duration: Approximately 4–8 hours
Estimated Recovery Period: 2–6 weeks, varying by individual healing and procedural complexity

Disclaimer: All surgical procedures at Shape Clinic are performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeons, Dr Steven Liew (MED0001151298 FRACS) and Dr Ania Smialkowski ( MED0001668109 FRACS). Individual results, healing responses, and recovery times vary. All surgical procedures carry inherent risks, including but not limited to infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve injury, asymmetry, and dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcomes. A consultation with a qualified practitioner is required to determine suitability. A second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner is recommended prior to proceeding with surgery.

Candidate Suitability for Rhytidectomy Surgery?

Rhytidectomy, commonly known as facelift surgery, may be considered for patients exhibiting moderate to advanced signs of facial aging. This can include loss of soft tissue volume, decreased bone density, and diminished skin elasticity, which contribute to features such as jowl formation, deepened nasolabial folds, and decreased definition of the mandibular border.

Facelift surgery aims to provide more comprehensive rejuvenation of the mid and lower face. It may be appropriate for individuals seeking significant structural and aesthetic correction.

Patients interested in addressing isolated concerns or seeking subtle improvements might consider non-surgical treatment modalities, which can be discussed during a specialist consultation.

Disclaimer: All surgical procedures carry risks. Individual responses to surgery vary. A consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon is required to assess suitability and discuss risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. A second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner is recommended prior to proceeding.

Differences Between Rhytidectomy and Cervicoplasty

Rhytidectomy is a surgical procedure primarily targeting the facial soft tissues, including the mid and lower face, to address skin laxity, subcutaneous tissue descent, and deep facial folds.

Cervicoplasty is a surgical procedure focused on the neck region, involving the excision of excess cervical skin and, often, tightening of the underlying platysma muscle to improve neck contour and reduce sagging.

Both procedures may be performed independently or in combination depending on the patient’s anatomical concerns and aesthetic goals.

Cervicoplasty may be performed concurrently with rhytidectomy to provide comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face and neck. Cervicoplasty specifically addresses skin laxity and soft tissue descent in the submental and cervical regions, including the area inferior to the mandible.

The procedure involves excision of redundant cervical skin and may include tightening of the underlying platysma muscle to improve contour and reduce skin redundancy along the neck, jawline, and jowl areas.

Differences Between Rhytidectomy and Browplasty

Browplasty, also known as a brow lift or forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that addresses ptosis (drooping) of the eyebrows and dynamic or static forehead rhytids (wrinkles). It primarily targets the upper third of the face, aiming to elevate the brows and reduce forehead lines.

The procedure involves excision or repositioning of excess skin and underlying soft tissues, including muscles, to improve brow position and reduce deep glabellar and forehead creases.

Browplasty may be performed in conjunction with a rhytidectomy or a blepharoplasty to achieve comprehensive rejuvenation of the periorbital and forehead regions. It is generally indicated for patients with concerns localized to the brow, forehead, and upper eyelid areas.

Like to know more about your treatment options?

Email us at concierge@shapeclinic.com.au or contact us on (02) 8356 2888 to book your consultation. During this consultation, a thorough clinical assessment will be conducted to determine whether any treatment is appropriate based on individual health and clinical factors. Please note that individual results may vary, and no specific outcomes can be guaranteed. All treatments carry risks.

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