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What is a facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure designed to restore youthful facial contours by repositioning descended facial and neck tissues toward their natural anatomical position. Rather than simply tightening the skin, modern facelift surgery addresses the deeper structural changes responsible for facial aging, resulting in more natural, balanced, and long-lasting rejuvenation.

How is facelift surgery performed?

Facelift surgery is performed under either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.

The incision typically begins within the sideburn area, extends along the natural crease in front of the ear, continues around the earlobe, and then curves behind the ear into the hair-bearing scalp. In women, the incision usually follows a post-tragal course, whereas in men it is generally placed in front of the tragus to avoid transferring beard-bearing skin into the ear canal. After the skin is elevated, the deeper facial support layer known as the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is identified and mobilized. Depending on the technique used, the SMAS and deeper facial tissues are repositioned and secured to restore youthful facial contours.

When indicated, neck contouring procedures may be performed simultaneously. These may include liposuction, platysma muscle tightening, treatment of deeper neck structures, and removal of excess skin to optimize jawline definition and neck contour.

 

Does an extended facelift technique provide superior results compared with a traditional facelift?

The face contains retaining ligaments that anchor the skin, subcutaneous fat, and SMAS to the underlying facial skeleton and deep fascia. These ligaments help support the facial soft tissues against the effects of gravity. With aging, attenuation of these retaining ligaments contributes to descent of the facial soft tissues, leading to many of the visible signs of aging. If these ligamentous attachments are not adequately released during facelift surgery, lifting forces may not be effectively transmitted to the midface. As a result, improvement may be limited to the lower face and neck while the cheeks and nasolabial folds remain relatively unchanged.

Extended facelift techniques, such as deep plane and composite plane facelifts, involve surgical release of the retaining ligaments of the midface. This allows lifting forces to be transmitted directly to the descended malar fat, restoring cheek projection, softening nasolabial folds, and producing balanced rejuvenation of the midface, cheeks, jawline, and neck without requiring a separate midface lift procedure.

Attempts to compensate for untreated midface descent with excessive fat grafting may occasionally result in an overfilled or unnatural appearance. By directly addressing the anatomical cause of facial aging, extended facelift techniques generally produce more harmonious and natural-looking results.

 

Are deep plane and composite plane facelifts more dangerous than other facelift techniques?

Preservation of the facial nerve is one of the most important aspects of facelift surgery. Safe performance of extended facelift techniques requires a thorough understanding of facial anatomy, retaining ligaments, tissue planes, and facial nerve relationships.

When performed by a surgeon with extensive experience in facial anatomy and advanced facelift surgery, deep plane and composite plane facelifts can be performed safely and predictably. In experienced hands, meticulous anatomical dissection often allows important structures to be directly identified and preserved, reducing the risks associated with blind dissection around critical anatomy.

 

Which technique does Dr. Özcan Çakmak prefer, and why?

Dr. Özcan Çakmak's preferred approach is his Modified Composite Plane Facelift with Extended Neck Dissection, originally described in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2018. Conceptually similar to a deep plane facelift, this technique incorporates the lower portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle into the composite flap, creating a stronger and more effective lifting construct for repositioning the descended malar fat and restoring youthful midfacial contours. Extension of the deep-plane dissection into the neck, combined with platysma suspension, allows effective improvement of neck contours and jawline definition. When indicated, treatment of deeper neck structures may also be performed to restore a sharper jawline and a more youthful cervicomental angle.

By simultaneously rejuvenating the midface, cheeks, jawline, and neck, this technique produces balanced and harmonious facial rejuvenation without requiring a separate midface lift procedure. The objective is not to create an operated appearance but rather to restore youthful facial contours while preserving each patient's natural characteristics.

 

What can I expect after surgery?

Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort following surgery, which is usually well controlled with oral pain medication.

Swelling and bruising vary among individuals but are generally modest. Most bruising significantly improves within the first week, and the majority of swelling subsides within 1–2 weeks.

Although patients typically appear socially presentable within a relatively short period, healing continues for several months. Final refinement of the tissues may continue for 6–12 months after surgery.

 

Will I have a drain, bandage, or dressing after surgery?

Dr. Çakmak does not routinely use drains, pressure dressings, compression garments, or head wraps following facelift surgery.

Instead, specialized hemostatic net sutures are applied to stabilize the tissues and minimize the risk of postoperative blood accumulation (hematoma). Because these sutures provide effective tissue support, bulky dressings are generally unnecessary.

The net sutures placed in front of the ears are typically removed the day after surgery, while those placed in the neck are removed on the second or third postoperative day. Removal is generally quick and virtually pain-free.

 

Will I need my sutures removed?

Skin sutures are typically removed 6–7 days after surgery. Suture removal is generally quick and causes little to no discomfort.

Will I have visible scars?

There is no such thing as scarless surgery, and every incision heals with a scar. However, facelift incisions are strategically placed within the hairline and natural contours of the ear whenever possible.

As healing progresses, these scars typically become inconspicuous and are often difficult to detect, even at close range.

How long do facelift results last?

A facelift cannot stop the aging process, and facial aging continues after surgery. However, the procedure effectively repositions tissues to a more youthful position, allowing patients to maintain a younger appearance than they would have achieved without surgery.

Although longevity varies among individuals depending on genetics, lifestyle, skin quality, and weight fluctuations, facelift results commonly remain apparent for 10–15 years or longer.

 

How long will I be away from work?

Most patients are able to return to non-strenuous work and social activities within 7–10 days after surgery.

Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and vigorous physical activity should generally be avoided for approximately 2–3 weeks.

 

Can I wear makeup after surgery?

Most patients may begin applying makeup approximately three days after surgery, provided the incision sites are kept clean and protected.

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What Is a Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty?

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to restore a youthful and refreshed appearance to the lower eyelids. The goals of surgery include smoothing the lower eyelid–cheek junction, reducing or repositioning protruding orbital fat (“eye bags”), correcting hollowness and depressions beneath the eyes, and improving excess skin and wrinkles when present. Modern lower blepharoplasty focuses not only on removing excess tissue, but also on restoring natural eyelid contours while preserving a balanced and youthful appearance.

 

How Is Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty Performed?

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty may be performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia.

Two principal surgical approaches are used:

Transconjunctival (Internal) Approach

The transconjunctival approach involves an incision made on the inner surface of the lower eyelid, leaving no visible external scar. This technique is particularly well suited for younger patients who have prominent lower eyelid fat bulges without significant excess skin. Through the internal incision, protruding orbital fat may be removed or repositioned to improve the contour of the lower eyelid. Because the incision is located inside the eyelid, sutures are generally not required.

Transcutaneous (Subciliary) Approach

The subciliary approach involves a fine incision placed just beneath the eyelashes of the lower eyelid. This technique allows treatment of excess skin, laxity of the orbicularis oculi muscle, and more advanced age-related changes affecting the lower eyelid and cheek. The subciliary approach provides broader surgical exposure, enabling release of retaining ligaments and correction of conditions such as tear trough deformities, infraorbital hollowing, malar mounds, and festoons. Protruding orbital fat is commonly repositioned over the infraorbital rim to create a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and cheek while minimizing postoperative hollowness. When indicated, support procedures such as orbicularis muscle suspension and lower eyelid tightening may be performed to reinforce lower eyelid support and reduce the risk of postoperative eyelid malposition. Excess skin is conservatively trimmed, and the incision is closed with fine sutures.

 

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are expected after surgery. Cold compresses are commonly applied during the first 48 hours to help reduce swelling and ecchymosis.

The degree of swelling and bruising varies among patients, but most visible signs of surgery improve substantially within 7–10 days. Residual swelling may continue to improve gradually over several weeks.

 

Will I Have a Bandage or Dressing?

A dressing is generally not required after lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Following an external approach, adhesive skin strips may be applied temporarily and removed within several days. Antibiotic ointment is typically applied to the incision line for approximately one week.

Lubricating eye drops and artificial tears may also be recommended during the early postoperative period to reduce dryness and irritation.

 

Will My Sutures Need to Be Removed?

If an external (subciliary) incision is used, skin sutures are typically removed approximately 5–7 days after surgery.

 

Will I Have Pain After Surgery?

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is generally associated with minimal discomfort. Most patients experience only mild soreness or tightness, which is usually well controlled with oral pain medication for a few days after surgery.

 

Will There Be a Visible Scar?

Any skin incision results in a scar. However, the subciliary incision is carefully placed immediately beneath the eyelashes, where it is typically very well concealed. After complete healing, the scar is often difficult to detect.

The transconjunctival approach leaves no visible external scar.

 

When Can I Return to Work?

Recovery is generally rapid. Most patients are able to resume light daily activities within 1–3 days. Depending on the degree of bruising and swelling, patients typically feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within approximately 7–10 days.

 

When Can I Wear Makeup?

Makeup may generally be applied approximately 5–7 days after surgery, once the incision has healed sufficiently and after suture removal when applicable.

 

How Long Do the Results Last?

Although lower eyelid blepharoplasty cannot stop the natural aging process, its results are typically long-lasting. The longevity of the outcome depends on individual factors such as genetics, skin quality, lifestyle, sun exposure, and the ongoing effects of aging. Improvements often remain noticeable for 10–15 years or longer.

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What Is an Endoscopic Brow Lift?

An endoscopic brow lift is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to elevate the eyebrows and rejuvenate the forehead region. The procedure restores a more youthful brow position, improves forehead contour, softens frown lines, and reduces upper eyelid hooding caused by brow descent. By using small incisions hidden within the hair-bearing scalp, the operation minimizes visible scarring and typically allows for a faster recovery compared with traditional forehead lifting techniques.

 

How Is Endoscopic Brow Lift Surgery Performed?

Endoscopic brow lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia.

Several small incisions are placed behind the hairline, usually consisting of three scalp incisions and two temporal incisions. Shaving of the hair is generally not required. Through these incisions, an endoscope is used to visualize the deeper tissues of the forehead and brow.

The forehead soft tissues are carefully elevated from the underlying bone, allowing release of the retaining attachments that contribute to brow descent. Depending on the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals, selected muscles responsible for glabellar frown lines may be partially weakened to soften vertical forehead creases.

Once the desired brow elevation has been achieved, the forehead tissues are secured in their new position using specialized fixation techniques. The incisions are then closed with sutures or surgical staples.

 

Do I Need an Upper Blepharoplasty, a Brow Lift, or Both?

The ideal position and shape of the eyebrows vary according to gender, age, ethnicity, facial proportions, and individual aesthetic preferences.

With aging, the eyebrows often descend, leading to upper eyelid hooding, excess upper eyelid skin, and loss of the youthful upper eyelid contour. Many patients subconsciously elevate their brows to compensate for visual field obstruction caused by brow ptosis and redundant upper eyelid skin.

For this reason, brow position should always be carefully evaluated before planning upper eyelid surgery. In some patients, correction of brow descent alone may significantly improve upper eyelid appearance and reduce the need for blepharoplasty.

Although a brow lift can be performed as an isolated procedure, it is commonly combined with upper eyelid blepharoplasty to achieve comprehensive rejuvenation of the upper face. When both procedures are indicated, the brow lift is generally performed first because correction of brow position often reduces the amount of excess upper eyelid skin requiring removal.

 

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are expected following surgery. Cold compresses are frequently applied during the first 48 hours to help reduce postoperative swelling and ecchymosis.

The degree of swelling and bruising varies considerably among individuals, but most visible signs of surgery improve substantially within 7–10 days. Residual swelling may continue to resolve gradually over several weeks.

Will I Have a Bandage or a Drain After Surgery?

Dr. Çakmak does not routinely use drains, pressure dressings, compression garments, or head wraps following endoscopic browlift surgery. 

Instead, specialized hemostatic net sutures are applied to stabilize the tissues and minimize the risk of postoperative blood accumulation (hematoma). Because these sutures provide effective tissue support, bulky dressings are generally unnecessary.

The net sutures placed in the temporal area are removed the day after surgery. Removal is quick and virtually pain-free.

 

Will My Sutures Need to Be Removed?

Scalp sutures or staples are typically removed approximately 7–10 days after surgery.

 

Will I Have Pain After Surgery?

Endoscopic brow lift surgery is generally associated with minimal postoperative discomfort. Most patients experience only mild soreness, tightness, or a temporary sensation of forehead numbness, which is well controlled with oral pain medication during the first few days after surgery.

 

Will There Be a Visible Scar?

Although every incision heals with a scar, the incisions used for an endoscopic brow lift are hidden within the hair-bearing scalp. Once healing is complete, the scars are usually very difficult to detect.

 

When Can I Return to Work?

Recovery following endoscopic brow lift surgery is typically rapid. Most patients are able to resume light daily activities within 1–3 days. Depending on the degree of swelling and bruising, many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within approximately 7–10 days.

 

When Can I Wear Makeup?

Makeup may generally be applied 2–3 days after surgery, provided it is not placed directly over healing incisions.

 

How Long Do the Results Last?

Although the aging process continues after surgery, the results of an endoscopic brow lift are typically long-lasting. Most patients enjoy improvement for approximately 10–15 years or longer. The longevity of the result depends on individual factors such as genetics, skin quality, lifestyle, and the natural aging process.

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What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the nose while maintaining or enhancing nasal breathing. The operation can address aesthetic concerns such as a dorsal hump, nasal asymmetry, a drooping or overprojected tip, excessive nasal width, or other structural irregularities. At the same time, functional problems affecting airflow may also be corrected when necessary.

 

How Is Rhinoplasty Performed?

Rhinoplasty may be performed under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia with sedation.

There are two principal surgical approaches:

Open Rhinoplasty

In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is placed across the columella, the narrow strip of skin separating the nostrils. This approach allows direct visualization of the nasal framework and provides excellent access for precise modification of the nasal structures.

Closed Rhinoplasty

In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are placed inside the nostrils, leaving no external scar. This technique may be appropriate for selected patients requiring less extensive modification.

Following the initial incisions, the nasal framework is reshaped by modifying the cartilage, bone, and soft tissues. Depending on the patient's anatomy and surgical goals, tissues may be reduced, repositioned, reinforced, or augmented. Once the desired nasal structure has been achieved, the skin is redraped and the incisions are closed.

 

Can I See What I May Look Like After Surgery?

Computer imaging may be used during consultation to help visualize potential surgical outcomes and facilitate communication regarding aesthetic goals.

Although imaging can provide a useful approximation of the anticipated result, it should be considered a planning tool rather than a guarantee. Actual surgical outcomes may differ from computer-generated simulations.

 

Will Cartilage From My Ear or Rib Be Needed?

Many primary rhinoplasty procedures can be performed using the cartilage already present within the nose.

In some cases, particularly revision rhinoplasty or complex reconstructive procedures, additional cartilage may be required to provide structural support or achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. When necessary, cartilage may be harvested from the nasal septum, ear, or rib. If such grafting is anticipated, it will be discussed thoroughly during the consultation process.

 

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are expected following rhinoplasty, although the degree varies significantly among individuals.

Cold compresses are frequently applied around the eyes during the first 48 hours to minimize swelling and bruising. Nasal congestion is common during the early postoperative period because of internal swelling, and breathing through the nose may be temporarily limited. This gradually improves over the following weeks.

Mild intermittent nasal bleeding or blood-tinged drainage may occur during the first few days after surgery and usually resolves spontaneously. Saline nasal spray is commonly recommended several times daily to keep the nasal lining moist and reduce crusting.

Most visible bruising and swelling improve substantially within 7–10 days. However, subtle residual swelling may continue to improve over several months, and the final nasal contour may not be fully apparent for up to one year.

 

Will I Have a Bandage or Dressing After Surgery?

At the completion of surgery, adhesive strips are typically applied to the nose, followed by an external nasal splint to help support the new nasal shape during the initial healing period.

Internal nasal packing is generally not required. Absorbable internal sutures may be used to reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding and hematoma formation.

The external splint is usually removed approximately 7–8 days after surgery.

 

Will My Sutures Need to Be Removed?

Following open rhinoplasty, external skin sutures are typically removed 5–7 days after surgery unless absorbable sutures are used.

Internal nasal sutures are generally absorbable and do not require removal.

 

Will I Have Pain After Surgery?

Most patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort following rhinoplasty. Any postoperative pain is usually well controlled with oral pain medication during the first several days after surgery.

 

Will There Be a Visible Scar?

Any skin incision results in a scar; however, the columellar incision used in open rhinoplasty is carefully placed and typically heals very well. After complete healing, the scar is often barely perceptible.

Closed rhinoplasty leaves no external scar because all incisions are located inside the nostrils.

 

When Can I Return to Work?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities after removal of the external nasal splint, approximately 7–10 days after surgery.

Although minor swelling may persist for several weeks or months, it rarely interferes with normal daily activities.

 

When Can I Wear Makeup?

Makeup may generally be applied 2–3 days after surgery, provided it is not placed directly over healing incisions or irritated skin.

 

When Can I Wear Glasses?

Patients are generally advised to avoid placing eyeglasses directly on the nose for approximately 6 weeks after surgery to prevent pressure on the healing nasal bones and cartilage.

Contact lenses may usually be worn within a few days after surgery.

 

When Can I Exercise?

Strenuous exercise should generally be avoided for approximately 2–3 weeks following surgery.

Activities involving direct facial contact or risk of nasal trauma should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

 

Can I Sunbathe?

Sun exposure should be minimized during the healing period. If sun exposure is unavoidable, a high-SPF sunscreen should be applied diligently to the nose.

Direct sunlight may increase swelling and contribute to prolonged skin discoloration. Increased sensitivity to sun exposure may persist for up to one year after surgery.

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What Is a Lip Lift?

A youthful and attractive upper lip is characterized by an appropriate balance between the nose, upper lip, and teeth. With aging, the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip gradually increases, the upper lip may appear longer and flatter, and less of the upper teeth become visible during smiling and speaking.

A Lip Lift is a surgical procedure designed to shorten the upper lip and restore a more youthful and balanced facial appearance. Unlike fillers, which primarily increase lip volume, a lip lift elevates the position of the upper lip, enhances tooth show, improves lip definition, and creates a more attractive lip shape without adding excessive fullness.

The procedure is typically performed through a well-concealed subnasal incision using a bullhorn-shaped skin excision pattern. By removing a precisely measured strip of skin, the upper lip is elevated and repositioned. This allows greater visibility of the upper teeth, improves lip proportions, and enhances overall facial harmony.

When indicated, a lip lift may be combined with additional perioral rejuvenation procedures, including corner lip lift techniques performed through small incisions at the outer corners of the mouth. Combining these procedures allows a more comprehensive correction of perioral aging and helps achieve optimal aesthetic outcomes.

A Lip Lift may be performed as a standalone procedure or combined with facelift, neck lift, blepharoplasty, fat grafting, and other facial rejuvenation procedures for more comprehensive facial enhancement.

The goal is to achieve a naturally youthful upper lip with improved definition, enhanced tooth show, balanced facial proportions, and a pleasant resting expression while avoiding an overfilled or artificial appearance.

 

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What Is Submental Deep Neck Contouring?

Submental Deep Neck Contouring is an advanced neck contouring procedure designed to improve jawline definition and restore a youthful cervicomental angle through treatment of the deeper anatomical structures of the neck. The procedure is performed through a small horizontal incision hidden beneath the chin.

Why Is Deep Neck Contouring Needed?

In many patients with an obtuse neck contour, anatomical structures located beneath the platysma muscle are significant but often overlooked contributors to neck fullness. As a result, effective neck contouring frequently requires direct surgical treatment of these deeper structures through a submental incision to achieve optimal aesthetic results.

Traditional neck contouring procedures have primarily focused on the removal of subcutaneous fat. However, in many patients, poor neck definition is not caused solely by superficial fat deposits. Deep anatomical structures—including subplatysmal fat, the anterior bellies of the digastric muscles, the submandibular glands, and the platysma muscle itself—may significantly contribute to an obtuse cervicomental angle and a poorly defined neck contour.

For this reason, liposuction alone may not provide optimal results. Furthermore, overaggressive removal of subcutaneous fat can produce suboptimal outcomes and may even worsen pre-existing contour irregularities, creating additional deformities that are often difficult to correct. Achieving an elegant, natural, and well-defined neck contour frequently requires direct assessment and treatment of the deeper anatomical structures contributing to neck fullness.

The procedure is particularly beneficial for patients with genetically heavy neck anatomy or significant deep neck fullness that cannot be adequately improved through superficial techniques alone. Unlike traditional neck liposuction, deep neck contouring addresses the underlying anatomical causes of neck fullness rather than focusing solely on the removal of superficial fat.

How Is Submental Deep Neck Contouring Performed?

Through a small incision hidden beneath the chin, the surgeon gains access to the deeper structures of the neck. Excess tissues beneath the platysma muscle—including subplatysmal fat, prominent anterior digastric muscles, and prominent portions of the submandibular glands—can be conservatively reduced when appropriate. Additional platysma refinement may also be performed to further enhance neck definition.

Individualized Surgical Planning

Every neck is anatomically unique. Not all patients require treatment of every deep neck structure. During surgery, the underlying anatomy is carefully evaluated, and only the structures contributing significantly to neck fullness are addressed.

Some patients may benefit primarily from removal of subplatysmal fat and refinement of the platysma muscle, while others may require additional reduction of prominent anterior digastric muscles or prominent portions of the submandibular glands. The goal is to achieve the most natural and aesthetically pleasing neck contour while preserving normal anatomy and function.

This individualized approach allows treatment to be tailored to each patient's specific anatomy and aesthetic goals, helping to maximize neck definition while minimizing unnecessary surgical intervention.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Deep Neck Contouring?

Submental deep neck contouring can be performed as a standalone procedure, particularly in younger patients with good skin elasticity and isolated deep neck fullness. These patients often seek improved neck definition without requiring skin excision or a facelift.

In older patients with skin laxity, jowling, platysmal banding, or more advanced facial aging, deep neck contouring is commonly combined with a face and neck lift. By addressing both the deeper anatomical causes of neck fullness and the overlying soft-tissue laxity, this combined approach provides the most harmonious and long-lasting results.

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What Is an Endoscopic Midface Lift?

An endoscopic midface lift is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the middle third of the face, the region between the lower eyelids and the upper lip. The procedure elevates descended cheek tissues, restores youthful cheek volume, softens the nasolabial folds, and improves the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek. By repositioning the deeper facial tissues rather than simply tightening the skin, an endoscopic midface lift provides natural and long-lasting rejuvenation of the midface.

 

How Is Endoscopic Midface Lift Surgery Performed?

Endoscopic midface lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

Small incisions are placed within the hair-bearing portion of the temporal scalp, where they remain well concealed. Through these incisions, an endoscope is introduced to provide magnified visualization of the deeper facial structures.

The soft tissue flap, consisting of skin, muscle, and periosteum, is carefully elevated and released from its underlying attachments over the cheekbone. Once complete mobilization has been achieved, the midface tissues are repositioned upward in a vector opposing the effects of gravity and secured using specialized suspension sutures.

In many patients, limited lower eyelid skin excision through a fine subciliary incision may be performed simultaneously to address excess skin and further improve the lower eyelid–cheek contour.

The procedure is then repeated on the opposite side, and all incisions are closed with sutures.

 

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are expected following surgery. Cold compresses are commonly applied during the first 48 hours to help reduce postoperative swelling and ecchymosis.

The extent of swelling and bruising varies considerably among individuals. Bruising is often minimal by the end of the first week, while the majority of swelling generally improves within 10–14 days.

Some patients may experience prolonged residual swelling, particularly in the cheek region. Although most of the healing process is completed within 2–3 weeks, subtle edema may continue to improve gradually over several months.

 

Will I Have a Bandage or a Drain After Surgery?

Dr. Çakmak does not routinely use drains, pressure dressings, compression garments, or head wraps following midfacelift surgery.

Instead, specialized hemostatic net sutures are applied to stabilize the tissues and minimize the risk of postoperative blood accumulation (hematoma). Because these sutures provide effective tissue support, bulky dressings are generally unnecessary.

The net sutures placed in the temporal area are removed the day after surgery. Removal is  quick and virtually pain-free.

 

Will My Sutures Need to Be Removed?

Scalp sutures or staples are typically removed approximately 7–10 days after surgery.

 

Will I Have Pain After Surgery?

Postoperative discomfort is generally mild to moderate and is usually well controlled with oral pain medication. Most patients require pain medication for only a few days after surgery.

 

Will There Be Visible Scars?

The temporal incisions are hidden within the hair-bearing scalp and are generally not visible after healing.

If a lower eyelid incision is used for skin excision, it is carefully placed immediately beneath the eyelashes. Once fully healed, the scar is typically very well concealed and often difficult to detect.

 

When Can I Return to Work?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities approximately 10–14 days after surgery.

Although the majority of swelling resolves during the first few weeks, residual edema may persist for several months in some individuals without significantly affecting daily activities.

 

When Can I Wear Makeup?

Makeup may generally be applied approximately 5–7 days after surgery, provided the incisions are healing appropriately and any sutures have been removed when applicable.

 

How Long Do the Results Last?

Although the aging process continues after surgery, the results of an endoscopic midface lift are typically long-lasting. Most patients enjoy improvement for approximately 10–15 years or longer.

The longevity of the outcome depends on factors such as genetics, skin quality, lifestyle, sun exposure, and the natural aging process. By restoring the deeper facial tissues to a more youthful position, the procedure can provide durable and natural-looking rejuvenation of the midface region.

 

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What Is an Upper Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to restore a youthful and refreshed appearance to the upper eyelids. Depending on the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals, the procedure may involve removal of excess skin, reduction or repositioning of protruding fat, contouring of redundant muscle, refinement of the upper eyelid crease, and restoration of upper eyelid volume through fat grafting or fat repositioning when hollowing is present.

In addition to aesthetic improvement, upper blepharoplasty may also enhance the visual field in patients whose excess upper eyelid skin interferes with vision.

 

How Is Upper Blepharoplasty Performed?

Upper blepharoplasty is most commonly performed under local anesthesia. Sedation or general anesthesia may be used in selected patients, particularly when additional facial rejuvenation procedures are performed simultaneously.

The planned eyelid crease and skin excision are carefully measured and marked before surgery. Through an incision placed within the natural upper eyelid crease, excess skin, muscle, and fat may be conservatively removed or repositioned to achieve a more youthful and natural upper eyelid contour.

When indicated, volume restoration procedures such as fat grafting may be performed to improve upper eyelid hollowing. Once the desired correction has been achieved, the incision is meticulously closed with fine sutures.

 

Do I Need an Upper Blepharoplasty, a Brow Lift, or Both?

With aging, the upper eyelid skin often becomes redundant (dermatochalasis), resulting in hooding of the upper eyelids and loss of the youthful upper eyelid contour. Brow descent may further contribute to excess skin and lateral hooding, occasionally leading to visual field obstruction.

For this reason, brow position should always be carefully evaluated before planning upper eyelid surgery. In some patients, correction of brow ptosis alone may significantly improve the appearance of the upper eyelids and reduce the need for skin excision.

When both brow descent and excess upper eyelid skin are present, a brow lift and upper blepharoplasty are frequently combined. If both procedures are performed simultaneously, the brow lift is generally completed first because restoration of brow position often decreases the amount of excess upper eyelid skin requiring removal.

 

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are expected after surgery. Cold compresses are commonly applied during the first 48 hours to help reduce swelling and ecchymosis.

The degree of swelling and bruising varies among individuals, but most visible signs of surgery improve substantially within 7–10 days. Residual swelling may continue to improve gradually over several weeks.

 

Will I Have a Bandage or Dressing After Surgery?

A dressing is not required following upper blepharoplasty. Small adhesive strips may occasionally be applied and are usually removed within several days.

Antibiotic ointment is commonly applied to the incision line during the first postoperative week. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops may also be recommended to minimize temporary dryness or irritation during the early healing period.

 

Will My Sutures Need to Be Removed?

Skin sutures are typically removed approximately 5–7 days after surgery unless absorbable sutures have been used.

 

Will I Have Pain After Surgery?

Upper blepharoplasty is generally associated with minimal discomfort. Most patients experience only mild tightness or soreness, which is well controlled with oral pain medication for a few days after surgery.

 

Will There Be a Visible Scar?

Although any skin incision heals with a scar, the upper blepharoplasty incision is carefully positioned within the natural upper eyelid crease. After complete healing, the scar is usually very well concealed and often difficult to detect.

 

When Can I Return to Work?

Recovery following upper blepharoplasty is generally rapid. Most patients are able to resume light daily activities within 1–3 days.

Depending on the degree of swelling and bruising, many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within approximately 7–10 days.

 

When Can I Wear Makeup?

Makeup may generally be applied approximately 5–7 days after surgery, once the incision has healed adequately and sutures have been removed when applicable.

 

How Long Do the Results Last?

Although the aging process continues after surgery, the results of upper blepharoplasty are typically long-lasting. Most patients enjoy improvement for approximately 10–15 years or longer.

The longevity of the outcome depends on individual factors such as genetics, skin quality, lifestyle, sun exposure, and the natural aging process.