Facelift Surgery
Rhytidectomy
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to address visible signs of facial ageing. A facelift may improve facial definition, reduce sagging skin, tighten deeper facial tissues, and restore a more refreshed appearance. Modern facelift techniques focus on repositioning underlying tissues rather than simply tightening the skin.
Important: In accordance with AHPRA guidelines, a minimum 7-day cooling-off period applies between your initial cosmetic surgery consultation and any procedure. The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is required to discuss your suitability.
What may be addressed
- Sagging skin of the lower face
- Deep folds around the mouth and nose
- Loss of jawline definition
- Jowls
- Loose skin and muscle laxity in the neck
- Facial volume loss when combined with fat grafting
Who may be suitable
This procedure may be considered for patients who meet the following criteria. Suitability is highly individual and must be assessed through a consultation with Dr Anavekar.
- Have visible facial ageing or skin laxity
- Are in good general health
- Have realistic expectations
- Are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before surgery
- Wish to achieve a refreshed appearance while maintaining natural facial character
The procedure
Facelift surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Incisions are typically concealed around the hairline and ears. The deeper facial tissues are repositioned and tightened before excess skin is carefully removed. A consultation is necessary to determine whether facelift surgery may be appropriate for your individual circumstances.
- Performed under general anaesthetic
- Incisions concealed around the hairline and ears
- Deeper facial tissues repositioned and tightened
- Excess skin carefully removed
- May be combined with neck lift, eyelid surgery, fat grafting, or skin resurfacing
Recovery
Recovery timeframes are approximate and vary between individuals. Dr Anavekar will provide personalised guidance on what to expect during your recovery.
Initial bruising and swelling improve
Many patients return to social activities
Most swelling settles significantly
Final results continue to refine
Risks & considerations
As with all surgical procedures, facelift surgery carries risks. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation, and Dr Anavekar will explain how they apply to your individual circumstances. Potential risks include, but are not limited to:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Nerve injury
- Asymmetry
- Delayed healing
- Hairline changes
- Persistent swelling
Frequently asked questions
Will I still look natural?
Modern facelift techniques aim to restore youthful contours while preserving natural facial movement and expression. Individual results vary.
How long do facelift results last?
While a facelift cannot stop the ageing process, results are generally long-lasting and may remain noticeable for many years. Individual results vary.
Is facelift surgery painful?
Most patients describe discomfort as manageable with prescribed medication. Your experience may differ. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Arrange a consultation
The right approach to any surgical procedure begins with a thorough, personalised consultation. Dr Anavekar will assess your individual circumstances and discuss all available options with you.
Book a ConsultationCall 03 9075 0005Your Surgeon
Dr Namrata Anavekar
MBBS (Hons) · FRACS · Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr Anavekar is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons with international fellowship training in Switzerland and France, including experience with world-leading reconstructive and aesthetic surgical teams.
Learn more about Dr Anavekar →Clinic Locations
Bulleen (Main)
26 Manningham Rd, Bulleen VIC 3105
Sunbury
Goonawarra Medical Centre, 1-5 Dornoch Dr, Sunbury VIC 3429
Educational information only: The content on this page is intended for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
Individual results vary: Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a range of personal factors. No specific outcome can be guaranteed.
Cooling-off period: In accordance with AHPRA guidelines, a minimum 7-day cooling-off period applies between an initial cosmetic surgery consultation and any procedure. No cosmetic surgery will be performed during or immediately after an initial consultation.
Take the first step
A consultation with Dr Anavekar is the first step in understanding whether facelift surgery may be appropriate for your individual goals and circumstances.