What does the procedure involve?
A facelift repositions the deep tissues that have descended over time to restore definition to the facial oval, midface and jawline. The aim is not to change your face, but to restore its support.
When do we recommend it?
- Visible facial sagging.
- Loss of jawline definition.
- Deep folds and heaviness in the lower third of the face.
- Patients seeking a more lasting change than non-surgical treatments can offer.
Reposition, never overstretch
A natural result comes from working on the right structures and respecting each patient's own features.
Recovery overview
Rest and check-ups
Initial swelling and tightness within the expected course of recovery.
Back to social life
Swelling subsides and the face progressively looks more natural.
Cleaner result
The redefined facial contour becomes clearly visible.
Natural facelift: why some show and others do not
The most common fear at consultation is ending up with a stretched face. That effect appears when the skin is tightened instead of the deeper structures, or when it is pulled horizontally. A facelift with natural results repositions the SMAS (the muscle and fibrous layer that supports the face) in a vertical direction, and leaves the skin free of tension. That is why your expression is preserved.
- Mini facelift: for early laxity along the jawline; shorter incision and faster recovery.
- Full SMAS facelift: treats the cheeks, folds, jawline and upper neck.
- Face and neck lift: when the neck has bands or excess skin, a neck lift is added.
A facelift does not treat skin quality or lost volume. That is why it is often combined with facial lipofilling to restore volume to the cheekbones and folds, and with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) if the eyelids give away tiredness. For pigmentation and texture, aesthetic medicine complements the result.
The incisions are hidden in front of and behind the ear and in the scalp. Social life is usually resumed within two to three weeks. The consultation is free, at Av. Diagonal 399 (Eixample, Barcelona) or by video call, and it is carried out by the same surgeon who will operate on you.
Risks and complications of facelift
Every operation carries risks. Most complications are uncommon and can be treated, but you have the right to know them before deciding: they are part of the informed consent you will sign with Dr. Liuzza. For facelift, the most relevant are:
- Haematoma: the most frequent complication, especially in men and in patients with high blood pressure; it may need drainage in the first hours.
- Injury to a branch of the facial nerve: temporary weakness of one area of the face (forehead, lip); permanent injury is very rare.
- Altered sensation: numbness of the cheeks and ears for weeks or months.
- Scars: hidden in front of and behind the ear and in the scalp; they may thicken or alter the hairline.
- Skin suffering: skin loss behind the ear, more frequent in smokers. Stopping smoking before surgery is essential.
- Asymmetry or irregularities: may need a touch-up once the result has settled.
- Infection: uncommon.
How we reduce these risks
A complete pre-operative work-up (blood tests and anaesthetic assessment), surgery in an authorised healthcare centre with an accredited operating theatre, meticulous surgical technique, antibiotic and anti-thrombotic prophylaxis when indicated, clear written instructions and direct follow-up by the surgeon herself at every check-up. If after surgery you notice fever, increasing pain, bleeding or sudden swelling, contact the clinic without waiting for your next appointment.