Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Süleyman Köken stated that aging, sun exposure, or weight gain and loss can cause sagging and deformities in the face, and that these problems can be successfully corrected with a facelift. Op. Dr. Süleyman Köken answered patients’ frequently asked questions about facelift surgery.

Will there be scars after a facelift? A facelift is a surgery that leaves scars. This is because we need to cut and remove the excess sagging skin, and then reshape and stitch the remaining skin back into place. Wherever there are cuts and stitches, there will inevitably be scars. But our goal in this type of surgery is to conceal the scars as much as possible.

What precautions should be taken before and after a facelift? Diet should be carefully monitored for several weeks before the surgery. Medications to reduce swelling may be started before the operation. If blood thinners are being used, they should be discontinued at least one week beforehand. Smoking should be stopped several weeks before the surgery and absolutely avoided for at least two weeks afterward, as it will delay healing. After the surgery, the sutured areas should be cared for and dressed, and compression garments should be worn for at least two weeks to prevent swelling. Showering should be avoided for a few days, and the suture areas should be kept dry. After the surgery, sports involving bending over on the stomach should be avoided, and medications or herbal supplements that may increase swelling or cause bleeding should not be used.

Will there be pain after a facelift? A facelift is not a painful surgery. However, it is a surgery with considerable swelling and bruising. Patients will be more bothered by the swelling than the pain. However, as the swelling decreases over time, patients will begin to feel more satisfied with the appearance.

Does a facelift make you look younger? Yes, absolutely, that’s the goal of this surgery. Our aim is to make the patient look younger by tightening sagging, sunken, and deformed areas of the face.

Are the results of a facelift permanent? The permanence of a facelift varies depending on the surgical technique. There are several facelift techniques. Some, which we call mini-facelifts, involve techniques performed above or below the main taut structure of the face. While not as long-lasting, classic facelifts, or deep plane facelifts, offer more satisfying results for a longer period compared to other techniques.

What results can be expected from a facelift? The patient must be thoroughly examined before surgery. The patient should also be of a certain age. Results are more pleasing in patients with significant deformities. For patients with very minor deformities, surgery can be postponed by applying minimally invasive, non-surgical procedures.

Should I protect myself from the sun after surgery? Because there are areas that were cut and stitched during surgery, sun exposure to these areas increases the likelihood of the scarring being undesirable. Therefore, you should avoid sun exposure for approximately 2 weeks after surgery, or if you must go out, use sunscreen and limit your exposure time. If the patient cannot do this, it would be more beneficial to have the surgery during the winter months. You should wait at least 2 weeks before making vacation plans after surgery. If there is any opening of the stitches or minor areas that haven’t fully healed, vacation plans should be postponed. Before making any vacation plans, you should definitely consult your doctor, have your stitches checked, and follow the advice your doctor gives you.