Scarless
face lift

What is a scarless face lift?

An endoscopic or scarless face lift is a minimally invasive procedure that is an affordable and convenient alternative to a full facelift, especially when the signs of ageing are limited to a specific part of the face – usually in people in their 30s to 50s. The procedure addresses the signs of ageing in the face and neck and around the nose and lips, by removing excess fatty tissue and tightening facial muscles. It is less invasive, has a lower risk and the recovery period is shorter than that of a full face lift. The procedure is often combined with an endoscopic brow lift to reposition the brow, The endoscopic face lift uses three or more short incisions, all made above the hairline or behind the ear, and sagging or drooping in the face is corrected, with a result that is virtually scarless.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

After this procedure, with sagging and drooping eliminated, the result will be noticeably firmer facial muscles, a more youthful appearance, the confidence of knowing you look good, and a boost to your self-esteem.

SOME FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

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How do I plan for my scarless face lift?

Before you make the decision to have the procedure, you will have your first consultation with your cosmetic surgeon, in order to establish what your expectations are, and what you would like to achieve. He or she will discuss the procedure with you, explaining the difference between the endoscopic facelift and a full facelift, so you’re fully informed before making your final decision.

What is the procedure for an endoscopic face lift?

For this procedure, small incisions are made above the hairline, behind the ear or inside the mouth, and the surgeon inserts a small, wand-like device with a tiny camera, under the skin, through one of the incisions. This enables the surgeon to see the procedure on a monitor.

The operation is performed using small surgical instruments inserted through the other incisions. Excess fatty tissue is then removed and loose tissue and facial muscles are reshaped.

How should I prepare for the surgery?

Before your surgery you may be asked to stop smoking for 2 – 4 weeks prior to the procedure. Nicotine retards the healing process, and quitting for as long as possible before surgery helps improve blood flow.

You will also have to have a blood test before surgery is performed.

You should stop taking certain medication, like aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs.

Avoid recreational drugs, and disclose to your surgeon any other medication you’re taking, since you may need to adjust these.

Be sure to arrange for transport to and from the clinic, since you will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

Where will my scarless face lift surgery be performed?

The surgery will be performed in one of our fully equipped operating theatres.

What anaesthetic will be used for my scarless face lift?

A scarless face lift can be performed under general or local anaesthetic. Your surgeon will discuss the options with you.

How do I recover from the procedure?

You will experience the most discomfort in the first week, but your medication will help ease the pain. Thereafter, the discomfort, usually not severe, will gradually decrease. This procedure usually produces less bleeding and swelling and the smaller incisions mean that there will be fewer stitches than with a regular facelift.

The recovery is often shorter and easier, so you can expect a relatively easy experience and a reduced risk of complications.

What can I expect after a scarless facelift?

After an endoscopic face lift, you will probably experience mild bruising and swelling for about 10 to 12 days, as well as some mild itching as the healing progresses.

Your sutures will be removed after about a week.

When can I return to normal activities?

You will probably be able to resume your normal daily activities within two weeks of surgery.

What are the risks involved in a scarless face lift?

With this surgery, like all other surgery, there is a (low) risk of post-operative infection, bleeding, swelling, nerve injury and the possibility of adverse reactions to anaesthesia.

Risks that are specific to this procedure, like the risk of infection, are lower than with a full facelift, but there is a chance that you may experience the same side effects and risks generally associated with a full facelift, such as swelling and bleeding. Other risks include mild pain and numbness, which seldom lasts more than a few weeks.