If you’re considering a face lift to restore youthful contours and confidence, Thailand offers world-class expertise at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries. Dr. Chatpong Sastarasadhit, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial rejuvenation, specializes in advanced face lift techniques—from mini lifts to full face and neck procedures. Whether you’re dealing with sagging skin, deep wrinkles, or facial asymmetry, Dr. Chatpong provides personalized surgical solutions with natural-looking results.
For international patients, consultations and follow-ups can be conveniently done via LINE video call, Facebook Messenger, or international phone. To start your journey, simply contact us via:
LINE ID: @bestheticsurgery https://lin.ee/8MwYb5W
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bestheticsurgery/
Phone +66 65-964-6326
Send us your concerns and photos to receive a personalized assessment directly from Dr. Chatpong.
What Is a Face Lift?
A face lift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that lifts and tightens sagging facial skin and muscles to restore a youthful appearance. As we age, the facial ligaments that support the skin loosen, and gravity causes visible signs of aging like drooping brows, sagging cheeks, under-eye hollows, deep nasolabial folds, and a less defined jawline. Face lift surgery addresses these concerns by tightening the underlying SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer and removing excess skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and younger-looking face—often reducing the appearance of age by 10–20 years. Results typically last 5–10 years.
This guide, written by Dr. Chatpong Sastarasadhit, provides a detailed overview of face lift surgery in Thailand, including the types of face lifts, who’s a good candidate, procedure steps, recovery, risks, and common questions.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Face lift surgery may be suitable for individuals who:
- Have sagging facial skin and loss of skin firmness, making them look older than their age.
- Show signs of deep wrinkles such as forehead lines, under-eye bags, nasolabial folds.
- Have a double chin, undefined jawline, or excessive neck fat.
- Experience drooping eyelids, sagging eyebrows, or facial asymmetry.
- Previously underwent non-surgical facial treatments but were dissatisfied with the results.
Types of Face Lifts
Face lift procedures can be categorized into four main types, based on the area of the face being treated:
1. Temporal Lift (Upper Face Lift)
Targets the upper third of the face—especially the temples, eyebrows, and outer corners of the eyes. Incisions are hidden within the hairline at the temples. This technique is ideal for patients with early signs of aging around the eyes and forehead.
2. Mini Face Lift (Mid-Face Lift)
Addresses sagging in the cheeks and lower eyelid area. Incisions are made along the tragus (ear lobe) to access and lift the SMAS layer. A vertical lift technique may also be used for enhanced upper cheek rejuvenation.
3. Anterior Face Lift (Lower Face)
Treats sagging in the lower cheeks, nasolabial folds, and jawline. Incisions extend behind the ear to allow wider access for lifting and tightening skin and muscles.
4. Full Face Lift (Comprehensive)
Combines upper, middle, and lower face lifting, including the neck and under-chin area. This comprehensive procedure involves incisions from the temple, around the tragus, and behind the ear. Ideal for patients with advanced skin laxity and visible aging across the entire face and neck.
Face Lift Procedure Steps
- Preoperative Assessment: A detailed facial analysis is performed to plan the appropriate technique.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia may be administered under anesthesiologist supervision.
- Incisions and Lifting: Incisions are made as planned. The skin and SMAS layer are lifted and tightened. Excess skin is trimmed.
- Closure: The incision is sutured with fine stitches, hidden within the hairline or behind the ears.
- Surgery Duration: Depending on the procedure, a face lift takes around 2–4 hours. Full face lifts may require more time.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling & Bruising: Common during the first 4–5 days. Use cold compresses and keep the head elevated.
- Compression Garment: Worn 24 hours a day for 2–3 weeks post-surgery to reduce swelling and help skin reattach in the lifted position.
- Wound Care: Avoid water, sweat, and moisture until stitches are removed (usually within 7–14 days).
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and chewy foods during the first week.
- Follow-ups: Regular check-ups are important for stitch removal and monitoring healing.
- Scar Management: After stitches are removed, silicone gel or vitamin E creams may be applied to reduce scarring.
Risks & Complications
While generally safe, face lift surgery may involve the following risks:
- Hematoma (blood accumulation): Preventable through proper preparation and surgical technique.
- Infection: Rare when performed in a sterile environment and with good post-op care.
- Numbness: Temporary numbness near incision sites, especially behind the ears, may occur and resolve over several months.
- Facial Asymmetry: Mild facial weakness may temporarily occur due to nerve pressure from swelling.
- Scarring: Scars are minimized with hidden incisions and proper wound care. Keloid-prone patients should inform their doctor beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will I have visible scars after a face lift?
Incisions are strategically hidden along the hairline and behind the ears. With proper care, scarring is minimal and often unnoticeable.
Will there be bruising or swelling?
Mild bruising or swelling is expected during the first few days. Most patients feel confident resuming social activities within a week.
How long do the results last?
Results typically last 5–10 years, depending on age, lifestyle, and technique used.
How long does surgery take?
Mini lifts may take 1–2 hours. Full face lifts can last 3–4 hours. Combined procedures may require splitting into separate sessions.
Can I combine a face lift with other procedures?
Yes, facial procedures like fat grafting, eyelid surgery, or brow lifts may be done together. However, major procedures like breast augmentation or full-body liposuction should be done separately for safety.
Conclusion
A face lift is a proven surgical option for facial rejuvenation, restoring a youthful appearance by tightening sagging skin and muscles across the face and neck. It is especially effective for individuals with moderate to severe signs of aging. To ensure safety and achieve optimal results, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Chatpong Sastarasadhit for a personalized assessment and post-operative plan.
Find Out Which Face Lift Suits You Best
Take our personalized face lift assessment with Dr. B via LINE at @bestheticsurgery and get instant feedback on your ideal approach to facial rejuvenation.
Want a personal consultation? Send your photos and concerns directly through the link provided. Every case is reviewed by Dr. B himself.