Facelift in Harley Street
Natural facial rejuvenation in Central London
Key facts
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is one of the most effective procedures to restore youthful facial contours and reverse visible signs of ageing in the lower face and neck.
At his private practice on Harley Street in London, plastic surgeon Dr. Gino Vissers performs advanced facelift surgery designed to lift sagging tissues, redefine the jawline and restore natural facial harmony.
Unlike outdated techniques that simply tighten the skin, modern facelift surgery lifts the deeper structures of the face to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation
without an over-pulled appearance. Dr .Vissers specialises in tailored facelift procedures for patients seeking elegant and subtle facial rejuvenation.
How it works: lifting of the facial muscles and removing skin excess
Anaesthesia: general anaesthesia
Recovery time: 3 weeks
Results: after swelling has settled down
Lasts: ± 10 years
What is a facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the mid and lower face, helping patients achieve a more youthful and revitalised look.
As we age, factors such as gravity, sun exposure, and the natural loss of skin elasticity can cause sagging and the formation of deep wrinkles, jowls along the jawline, deep nasolabial folds, and loose neck skin.
A surgical facelift effectively addresses these concerns by lifting and tightening the deep facial structures (including the SMAS layer), repositioning fat deposits, and removing excess skin. The result is a firmer and
more youthful facial contour
that still looks natural.
Types of facelift surgery
Facelift surgery is highly individualised. Dr. Gino Vissers offers several advanced facelift techniques depending on your anatomy, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences.
The deep plane facelift is an advanced facelift technique that lifts and repositions the deeper structural layers of the face rather than simply tightening the skin. It is considered the gold-standard for a facelift in most patients. In this procedure, Dr. Gino Vissers releases key facial retaining ligaments and elevates the skin together with the underlying SMAS and facial fat pads as one composite layer, allowing the midface and jawline to be repositioned more effectively. By addressing the deeper causes of facial ageing, a deep plane facelift can produce more natural and longer-lasting results, particularly in the cheeks, while avoiding the tight or pulled appearance associated with older skin-only techniques. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with more advanced facial ageing, significant jowls, or deep folds, and when performed by an qualified consultant plastic surgeon it can provide comprehensive rejuvenation of the midface, jawline, and neck.
MACS facelift
The MACS facelift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension lift) is a short-scar facelift technique designed to improve early to moderate facial ageing with smaller incisions and a relatively quicker recovery. The procedure focuses on lifting the deeper facial tissues using imbrication sutures anchored to the deep temporal fascia near the temple, which helps elevate the cheeks and improve jowling. Because the incision is usually limited to the area in front of the ear, it avoids the longer scars associated with more extensive facelift procedures. The MACS facelift can be suitable for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, particularly in the midface and jawline.
SMAS plication facelift
A SMAS plication facelift is an older facelift technique that focuses on tightening the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), the fibromuscular layer beneath the skin that plays an important role in facial support. In this approach, the skin is first elevated and the SMAS layer is then folded and secured with sutures to tighten and reposition the underlying tissues. This can improve mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and jawline while maintaining a relatively straightforward surgical procedure. For patients who are not suitable to have a deep plane facelift, a SMAS plication facelift can provide natural-looking improvement.
Mini facelift
A “mini facelift” is often used as a marketing term rather than a clearly defined surgical procedure.
Unlike established facelift techniques that address the deeper structural layers of the face, the term “mini facelift” can refer to a wide variety of limited or short-scar procedures, and there is no universally accepted surgical definition. Because these operations typically involve less extensive lifting of the deeper tissues, the improvement may be modest and the results may not last as long as those achieved with a comprehensive facelift.
While a smaller procedure may be appropriate for selected patients with very early signs of ageing, individuals seeking meaningful and long-lasting rejuvenation of the jawline and neck often achieve more reliable results with a full facelift that addresses the underlying facial structures.
Combined face and neck lift
A combined face and neck lift is a comprehensive surgical approach that addresses both the lower face and the neck in a single procedure, providing harmonious and balanced rejuvenation. While a traditional facelift improves the cheeks and jawline, it may not fully correct loose skin, muscle banding, or fat accumulation in the neck. By combining the two procedures, the surgeon can lift and tighten the SMAS layer of the face, remove excess skin, and correct neck laxity or platysmal bands, resulting in a smoother jawline and a more youthful neck contour. This approach ensures that the lower face and neck age naturally together, avoiding the disconnected appearance that can occur when the neck is left untreated. Patients typically achieve more natural-looking and long-lasting results compared with a facelift or neck lift performed in isolation, making this combination the preferred option for those with moderate to advanced signs of facial ageing.
Facelift for men
Facelift surgery in men requires a slightly different surgical approach compared with women because of differences in facial anatomy, hair patterns, and aesthetic goals. Male patients typically have thicker skin, stronger facial musculature, and beard-bearing areas that must be carefully considered when planning incisions to avoid visible scars or displacement of hair-bearing skin. The aim of a male facelift is usually to restore a stronger, well-defined jawline and neck contour, while maintaining a natural, masculine appearance rather than creating an over-tight or feminised result. Particular attention is paid to incision placement around the sideburn and ear to preserve a natural hairline and allow normal shaving patterns after surgery. When performed with these considerations in mind, facelift surgery can provide men with subtle and long-lasting facial rejuvenation while preserving their characteristic facial features.
Should I undergo facelift surgery?
A facelift is an excellent procedure for anyone who wants to tighten and rejuvenate sagging skin on the mid and lower part of their face.
During your consultation, Dr. Gino Vissers will assess your skin elasticity and facial anatomy, and determine whether you are a good candidate for a facelift.
A facelift can improve any of the following concerns:
- Sagging skin in the lower face
- Jowls along the jawline
- Loss of jawline definition
- Loose skin in the neck and banding
- A tired or aged facial appearance
- Loose skin following weight loss
Facelift surgery is often combined with additional facial rejuvenation procedures to create a balanced and harmonious result:
Preparing for facelift surgery
Getting ready for your facelift is just as important as the surgery itself. A little preparation goes a long way in making your recovery smoother, more comfortable, and stress-free. Here are some simple steps to help you feel confident and ready:
Follow your surgeon's guidance
Dr Vissers will give you clear instructions to follow before surgery, such as pausing certain medications, supplements, smoking, or alcohol. These steps are all designed to keep you safe and help your body heal quickly, so think of them as part of your recovery plan.
Arrange support for after surgery
You’ll need someone you trust to take you home after your procedure, since you won’t be able to drive yourself. It’s also helpful to have a friend or family member nearby for the first day or two, just in case you need an extra hand. Give yourself permission to take a proper break from work and daily tasks so you can focus on resting.
Create a comfortable recovery space
Before your surgery, set up a cozy spot at home where you can relax. Keep a few extra pillows ready to support your head, and have ice packs available to ease any swelling. Place everything you might need, like your medication, gauze, and ointment, within easy reach so you don’t have to get up too often.
What happens during a facelift?
Facelift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgery takes 3-6 hours, depending on the extend and complexity.
During the procedure, Dr. Gino Vissers will make discreet incisions, carefully hidden around the hairline and ears, to minimise visible scarring. Through these incisions, the SMAS layer is lifted, and the deep facial tissues are repositioned to restore volume and create a more sculpted appearance. The skin is then re-draped, and any excess is trimmed away, ensuring a rejuvenated yet natural result.
A facelift can be tailored to address specific areas of concern, such as the midface, jowls, or neck. It can also be combined with other procedures, such as eyelid surgery or a brow lift, for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dr. Gino Vissers will work closely with you to understand your individual goals and develop a personalised treatment plan that best suits your needs.
What to expect after a facelift?
Recovery after a facelift involves some downtime. Patients will need to take about a week off from work to rest and recover. Expect some swelling and bruising that will build over the first few days, then diminish, and slowly fade over the next 1-2 weeks.
A dressing will be in place following your surgery, and you will be seen by Dr. Gino Vissers within the first few days of your surgery to change the dressing. Discomfort will be minimal and can be relieved with pain medication. Most patients are back to full activity within 3 weeks. It may take up to a few months before the swelling has completely settled.
Dr. Gino Vissers will provide detailed post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery process.
Recovery timeline after facelift surgery
Days 1 to 3
A facelift is typically performed as a day-case procedure, meaning patients return home the same day. During the first few days, it is normal to experience:
- Mild to moderate swelling of the face and neck
- Bruising around the cheeks, jawline, and neck
- Tightness or a sensation of firmness
- Mild discomfort or tenderness
- Temporary numbness around the ears, cheeks, or neck
- Mild fatigue or reduced energy levels
Patients are advised to keep the head elevated at all times, including during sleep, and to avoid bending, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity. Cold compresses may help during the early phase of recovery if advised by your surgeon. Prescribed medication should be taken as directed.
It is important to rest during this initial healing period and avoid smoking, alcohol, and anything that may increase swelling or impair healing.
Days 4 to 7
Swelling and bruising are usually most noticeable during the first week before gradually starting to improve. Patients often begin to feel more comfortable during this period, although tightness and swelling remain completely normal.
Dressings are typically removed within the first few days after surgery, and sutures may be removed between 3 and 10 days depending on the surgical technique used.
Short gentle walks are encouraged to promote circulation, but strenuous activity and exercise should still be avoided. Most patients continue spending the majority of this week recovering at home.
Weeks 1 to 2
During the second week after facelift surgery, swelling and bruising continue to improve significantly. Many patients start to feel more confident socially and begin returning to light daily activities.
At this stage:
- The jawline and facial contours become more visible
- Bruising can often be concealed with makeup
- Most patients feel comfortable returning to non-physical work after approximately 10 to 14 days
- Residual tightness and mild numbness are still common
Patients should continue avoiding strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, excessive sun exposure, and activities that significantly raise blood pressure during this stage of healing.
Weeks 2 to 4
Residual swelling continues to settle progressively over the following weeks, and facial contours become increasingly refined and natural in appearance.
Most patients can gradually resume:
- Light exercise
- Social activities
- Driving
- Most normal daily routines
Scars may still appear pink or firm during this stage, but they generally continue improving steadily over time. The face typically begins to look fresher, more rested, and rejuvenated while still appearing natural and recognisable.
Around 6 Weeks
By six weeks after facelift surgery, most patients have returned fully to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine. The majority of swelling has resolved, and the jawline and neck look significantly more defined and rejuvenated.
After 3 to 6 Months
Final facelift results continue developing gradually over several months as the deeper tissues soften and settle fully into their new position. Patients typically notice a fresher, firmer, and more youthful appearance while still looking entirely like themselves. Modern facelift techniques aim to achieve elegant, natural-looking rejuvenation without an artificial or over-tightened appearance.
Why choose
Dr Gino Vissers for your facelift in London?
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is the most important decision when considering facelift surgery.
Dr Gino Vissers is an award-winning and triple board-certified consultant plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial plastic surgery and facial reconstruction. He has a 5.0 star rating on Google and is trusted by local and international patients.
Patients choose Dr Gino Vissers for:
- advanced facial surgery expertise
- natural aesthetic philosophy
- prestigious Harley Street location
- meticulous surgical technique
He performs facial procedures including:
