Facelift and Neck Lift: What’s the Difference and How They Work Together

Feb 10

Cosmetic surgery procedures like a facelift (rhytidectomy) or a neck lift (platysmaplasty) aim to address changes associated with facial aging by repositioning and tightening the skin and underlying tissues of the face and jawline.

The procedure is intended to restore facial contours and reduce the appearance of excess skin in the lower face and neck. A facelift aims to achieve a natural-looking outcome that aligns with the individual's facial structure and aesthetic goals.

What is a facelift?

A facelift aims to reduce signs of ageing by:

Tightening facial muscles and skin
Removing or repositioning underlying tissue.

Facelifts work best in people who:

Are otherwise healthy
Have noticeable signs of ageing such as loose skin, deep folds and loss of facial contour.
Individuals in their 40s to 60s, although patients outside this range may also benefit depending on their skin quality and anatomical changes.
Non-smokers, or those willing to stop smoking before and after surgery, as smoking can impair healing and affect results.
Have realistic expectations of what it can accomplish and understand this surgery does not stop the aging process.

While it may reduce signs of ageing on your face by lifting and tightening skin (and sometimes muscles), a facelift will not improve your eyelids, wrinkles on the forehead or your complexion.

Are there different types of facelifts?

Yes, there are several different facelift options.

Facial threads facelift

A facial threads facelift is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure using dissolvable sutures with barbs or cones to lift sagging tissue. While it provides temporary results with minimal downtime, it does not offer the same longevity as surgical facelifts.

Thread lifting is best suited to younger or middle-aged patients – it is not recommended for those with mature skin that is very thin or dry.

‘Mini’ facelift

A mini facelift tightens deep facial tissues around your cheeks but does so using shorter incisions, which can usually be hidden near your hairline above your ears. This procedure usually offers a quicker recovery time compared to a full facelift, with more subtle results.

SMAS Facelift:

The SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) is a layer of tissue that connects face and neck muscles to the skin and plays a key role in facial expression. A SMAS facelift (rhytidectomy) is a widely used technique that focuses on repositioning the SMAS layer, which lies beneath the skin and fat. This approach is intended to enhance facial contours and may offer longer-lasting results compared to procedures that address only the skin.

Deep plane facelift

This technique focuses on lifting deeper facial structures, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and retaining ligaments, as a single unit. It is designed to enhance facial contours and address areas such as the midface and nasolabial folds. By targeting these deeper layers, the procedure aims to achieve results with reduced reliance on skin tension.

What are the risks of a facelift?

Like any surgical procedure, a facelift involves potential risks and complications. While modern techniques aim to reduce these risks, it’s important to be informed about possible outcomes. Key risks include:

Bleeding (Hematoma): A blood collection under the skin that may require drainage to prevent complications such as infection or skin damage.
Infection: Rare but possible; may require antibiotics or additional treatment.
Scarring: Typically minimal and in discreet areas, but may vary based on individual healing and surgical technique.
Nerve Injury: Temporary weakness or changes in sensation are more common; permanent nerve damage is rare.
Skin Necrosis: Smoking or poor blood supply may lead to skin loss requiring further treatment.
Asymmetry: Healing differences or natural facial variations can result in slight asymmetry, which may need correction.
Swelling and Bruising: Usually temporary, but some cases may take longer to resolve.
Hairline or Earlobe Changes: Tension during closure may alter their natural position.
Anesthesia Risks: Complications, such as allergic reactions or cardiovascular issues, are possible but uncommon.
Unsatisfactory Results: Desired outcomes may not always be achieved, and revision surgery could be needed.

Some patients may require a second (revision) surgery to correct complications.

What is a neck lift and why might you have one?

A neck lift aims to address a loss of skin elasticity around your neck, chin and jawline in the attempt of creating a smoother and tightened appearance.

During a neck lift, your surgeon may remove excess skin and fat and tighten underlying muscles to change the appearance of your neck.

This is often the preferred choice in patients whose concerns are primarily about the neck, chin and jaw area.

How do you decide which procedure is right for you?

Deciding between a facelift and a neck lift depends on your aesthetic goals. Facelifts and neck lifts address different areas but are often performed together as they complement each other. For patients with signs of ageing in the lower face, a neck lift is sometimes performed alongside a facelift to address both areas in a single procedure.

The best way to decide if either approach aligns with your aesthetic goals and individual needs is to consult with a specialist plastic surgeon like Dr James Allan, who can:

Discuss your goals
Assess your medical history
Advise on which procedures are most likely to suit you
Help you understand each procedure, including its risks and benefits, recovery time and cost
Ensure you have realistic expectations about any surgery you may choose to have.

The type of facelift is determined by the patient’s unique anatomy, degree of aging, and personal goals. Careful patient assessment and tailored surgical planning are essential to achieving results that align with the individual’s goals and features.

If you’d like to explore your options, please book an appointment.

Disclaimer

All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Dr James Allan can consult with you regarding your individual health needs. Results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.

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