Facelift
Restore youthful contours with natural, long-lasting results
Refined, natural results that restore facial contours and jawline definition — delivered by Board-certified facial plastic surgeons.
Facelift surgery rejuvenates the face by tightening and repositioning the deeper supporting tissues beneath the skin. It restores definition to the jawline, smooths deep creases, and refreshes the mid- and lower-face contours, creating a rested, confident appearance that still looks like you.
At Hillser, every facelift is consultant-led. Our surgeons combine anatomical precision with aesthetic balance, using evidence-based techniques to achieve results that age gracefully and harmoniously with the rest of your features.
Modern facelift approaches such as SMAS, endo-lifting and deep-plane techniques address the underlying facial structure rather than simply tightening skin. This allows for longer-lasting results and avoids an over-tightened or “operated” look.
Procedure time
2-4 hours
Anaesthetic
General anaesthetic (local with sedation for limited procedures)
Hospital stay
Usually one night in hospital
Time off work
Approximately 2 weeks
Return to exercise
4-6 weeks
Final results
3-6 months as tissues settle
What the procedure involves
Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic with sedation, depending on the scope of treatment.
Incisions are carefully placed around the ears and within the hairline so they blend naturally once healed. In some cases, incisions can be hidden into the scalp.
The deeper muscular layer (SMAS) is gently lifted and secured in a more youthful position before the skin is redraped without tension.
Excess skin is trimmed and fine sutures are used to close the incisions.
For appropriate candidates, limited-incision or endoscopic techniques can be employed to minimise downtime and reduce visible scarring.
Most procedures take around three hours. Some patients go home the same day, while others stay overnight for observation.
Benefits
Restores smoother, firmer facial contours and improves jawline definition.
Reduces jowls, sagging and deep facial folds.
Enhances mid-face volume for a refreshed, natural appearance.
Provides results that typically last for many years, reflecting both the depth of correction and the individual ageing process.
Recovery and aftercare
Initial recovery usually takes around 10 days. You may experience mild tightness, swelling, or bruising, which gradually subsides. In most cases you can return to your daily activities and exercise after two weeks.
Our nursing and patient-care team provide structured guidance on wound care, sleeping position, and gradual return to normal activity.
While most patients feel socially comfortable after two weeks, final refinement continues as tissues settle. Your results should remain stable for many years, ageing naturally with you.
Consultation and Candidacy
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation with one of Hillser’s consultant facial surgeons. During this appointment we will:
Assess your facial structure, skin quality, and overall health.
Review any previous treatments or surgery.
Take photographs and discuss your goals & priorities.
Explain the outcomes and risks involved in the surgery.
Discuss possible complementary procedures—such as neck lift, eyelid surgery or brow lift—to ensure balanced rejuvenation.
Ideal candidates are those who are in good general health with realistic expectations of improvement rather than transformation. Individual factors including skin elasticity, tissue volume, ethnic background and underlying bone structure all influence the surgical approach and quality of result — each of these is assessed carefully at consultation.
Why choose Hillser Clinic?
Consultant-led expertise – every procedure planned and performed by experienced facial plastic surgeons.
Advanced techniques – modern SMAS and deep-plane approaches for natural, long-lasting results.
Integrated care – complementary treatments such as neck lift, chin contouring, or skin therapies can be integrated for balanced rejuvenation.
Safety and clinical excellence – procedures carried out in accredited, CQC-certified facilities across leading London and South East hospitals.
FAQs
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Modern facelift procedures vary in depth and scope. Options include traditional SMAS lift, MACS lift, deep-plane facelift for more advanced ageing, and limited-incision or endoscopic lifts for earlier changes. Your surgeon will advise which approach best suits your anatomy and goals.
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A facelift improves sagging and facial laxity but does not address skin texture, pigmentation or fine wrinkles. Non-surgical treatments including lasers & Hillser bespoke skin preparation protocols can complement your results.
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Most people return to light activities within two weeks and normal routines (including travelling) after four weeks. Swelling continues to refine for several months.
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Complications are uncommon but may include bleeding, bruising, infection, facial nerve irritation or scarring. These will be discussed fully at your consultation.
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Results typically last 8–12 years, depending on skin quality, lifestyle and natural ageing. Many patients later consider non-surgical maintenance treatments.
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We can usually offer appointments within just a few days. Diagnostics and any procedures are coordinated promptly at our partner hospitals in London and the South East.
If you’re considering facial rejuvenation or wish to restore smoother, youthful contours, our consultant-led team will help you explore the safest and most effective options.
Begin your doctor-guided aesthetic journey today.