What happens during a facelift operation?
A facelift is usually performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes two to three hours. The surgical technique will depend on what area is being lifted.

SMAS facelift - Your surgeon will make an incision on both sides of your face in the hairline around your ears. They will cut under the deeper layer of tough tissue (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system or SMAS layer), lifting and tightening it. Your surgeon will then tighten the skin towards your ears and remove any excess skin.

MACS facelift - The MACS (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) face lift involves a smaller incision eliminating any scarring behind the ear. Your surgeon will tighten the SMAS layer with special suspension stitches to avoid cutting underneath it. MACS face lift involves less surgery but the results may not last as long as an SMAS facelift.

Mid-facelift - A mid facelift addresses the area below your lower eyelids over the cheekbone. Your surgeon will make small cuts along your hairline and either inside your mouth or in your lower eyelid. They will use special surgical instruments and stitches to lift the cheeks.

Once you have recovered from the anaesthetic, you will be encouraged to sit up in bed
Sitting upright will help to reduce some of the swelling
Your face is likely to feel tight and tender around the ears
However, there should not be any severe pain and this will be controlled with simple analgesia
You may feel drowsy following surgery
Expect to wake up and doze off for the remainder of the day
You may have a bandage around your head and under your chin after surgery
We will remove it the day after your surgery
Small, thin tubes (drains) may be temporarily inserted in the wounds
You are likely to stay in hospital overnight
You may be given a support garment to wear after your bandages are removed.

What happens during a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is usually performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. Your surgeon will numb the area in front or just behind your ears. They will make a few small incisions in front or behind your ears and (depending on the extent of lift needed) along your hairline. They will extend and tighten the skin where needed. Your wounds will be closed using very fine stitches.