What is a Face Lift? Meloplasty Surgery Explained

September 8, 2023

For individuals seeking cosmetic enhancements, various surgical options are often considered. Among these options is the face lift, or meloplasty, a widely known and frequently chosen procedure. This article aims to provide a practical overview of meloplasty (face lift surgery), detailing the procedure’s technical aspects and its role in addressing ageing-related concerns.

Understanding Face Lift Surgery

A face lift, or meloplasty, is a surgical procedure intended to address visible signs of ageing that manifest on the face. This intervention is employed to counteract a loss of skin elasticity, wrinkle formation, and the gradual reduction of facial volume over time by tightening the skin and addressing underlying tissues.

Face Lift: The Surgical Process

The process of meloplasty (facelift surgery) involves several key steps:

  • Anesthesia Administration:  general anaesthesia in a hospital setting is a requirement of meloplasty (facelift surgery)  
  • Strategic Incisions: Precise incisions are made around the ears and hairline, providing access to specific areas.
  • Underlying Tissue Repositioning and Tightening: Repositioning and tightening of the tissues address loss of skin elasticity and volume for a more defined facial appearance.
  • Excess Skin Removal: Skilled removal of excess or loose skin enhances the overall appearance of the face.

Modern face lift techniques prioritise a natural outcome that complements your unique features, resulting in an appearance that looks authentic. In essence, a face lift delivers a lifted version of your natural self, emphasising surgical precision and aesthetic sensibility for a revitalised appearance. 

Recovery and Results

Once the face lift surgery is complete, you’ll enter the recovery period. Here’s what you can expect from this phase:

  • Initial Discomfort and Swelling: Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days are natural and gradually subside.
  • Gradual Improvement: Over weeks, swelling and bruising diminish, revealing improved contours and features.
  • Post-Operative Care: Following instructions for skincare, diet, and activity optimizes healing.
  • Final Results Over Time: While immediate changes are noticeable, full outcomes develop over 3-12months.

Remember that every individual’s healing journey is unique, so patience is key as you await the final results.

Benefits and Considerations

Benefits:

  • Addressing Signs of Ageing: A primary objective of a facelift is to address visible signs of ageing. The procedure targets concerns such as changes in skin elasticity, the formation of wrinkles, and other age-associated manifestations.
  • Long-Lasting Results: While not permanent, the results of meloplasty face lift) are known to be long-lasting. The procedure can provide you with results that last for several years.
  • Enhanced Facial Contours: Through the repositioning of underlying tissues and the removal of excess skin, a face lift can refine the contours of your face, resulting in a more defined and distinct appearance.
  • Natural-Looking Outcome: Modern meloplasty (facelift) techniques aim to create a natural-looking outcome. The goal is to rejuvenate your appearance without giving off an obvious “worked on” look.

Considerations:

  • Surgical Nature: A meloplasty (facelift) is a surgical procedure, and as with any surgery, there are risks involved. It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your specialist plastic surgeon about potential risks and complications.
  • Downtime: While recovery durations can vary, a recuperation phase usually follows a facelift. It may necessitate taking time off work and refraining from specific activities during the initial healing stage.
  • Individual Variation: Each person’s anatomy and healing process are unique. As a result, the exact outcomes and recovery timeline can vary from individual to individual.
  • Qualified Surgeon: The choice of a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon holds paramount importance. Ensuring that your surgeon is board-certified and has a history of successful facelift procedures is crucial.

In the process of deciding on a meloplasty (facelift surgery), thoughtful consideration of potential advantages and risks is essential. Consulting with a medically qualified professional to ascertain if the procedure aligns with your objectives and expectations is recommended.

Shape Clinic Client Gallery: View Our Face Lift Before & After Results.

Shape Clinic: Sydney Face Lift Specialists

At Shape Clinic, our experienced team led by Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Steven Liew are  dedicated to guiding you through the entire process of meloplasty (face lift surgery) – from consultation to recovery – using a personalised approach.

If you’re looking for more information about what meloplasty entails, get in touch with our team today.