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Most frequently asked questions about facelift

Answers to the questions patients ask most often before deciding on a facelift — from who the procedure is for and what it can achieve, to recovery, risks and cost.

Classic SMAS lifting detaches the SMAS layer from deeper structures and plicates it. Deep Plane technique goes deeper — lifting SMAS, muscles and fat tissue as one anatomical unit, releasing retaining ligaments holding tissue in its descended position. The result: greater mid-face and neck mobilisation, natural appearance without skin tension, longer-lasting outcome. Read more in our article on Deep Plane facelift.

Performed through small hairline incisions with a miniature camera. For younger patients needing correction of the upper and mid-face — brows, forehead and cheeks — without significant excess skin. Not a substitute for classic Deep Plane when significant ptosis is present. Details in our endoscopic facelift article.

An endoscopic technique by Dr. Chia Chi Kao, performed exclusively through hairline incisions — no incision in front of the ear. Laterally lifts and repositions cheek and temple tissue. Ideal for younger patients with good skin elasticity wanting upper and mid-face refreshment without visible traces. More in our Ponytail lift article.

Between 3 and 6 hours depending on scope and combinations. Isolated upper-face procedures are shorter. Combined procedures (neck lift, blepharoplasty, fat grafting) may extend duration. Exact timing confirmed at consultation.

General anaesthesia in a hospital setting, with an anaesthesiologist monitoring throughout. Local anaesthesia is not an option for this scope — controlled anaesthesia is a non-negotiable standard.

Paradoxically, the deeper technique is safer for the skin. Deep Plane does not separate skin from subcutaneous tissue over large areas, preserving blood supply. This reduces skin necrosis risk, improves healing and produces finer scars. All risks are discussed in detail at consultation.

Yes — common practice. Most frequent combinations: neck lift (jawline and neck tightening), blepharoplasty (eyelid correction), fat grafting (volume restoration), brow lift. Combined procedures don't proportionally extend recovery — one anaesthesia, one healing period, more comprehensive result.

No. A well-timed facelift — already in one's forties — often delivers finer, longer-lasting results than years of repeated non-invasive treatments. Younger tissue responds better to repositioning, recovery is faster, results last longer. Preventive approach means operating at the right time — when structural changes become visible but tissue is still excellent. More in our preventive facelift article.

Fillers add volume where it's lacking but cannot return tissue to its original position. Cheek ptosis, disappearing jawline and jowls are structural problems — fillers can mask them temporarily, but don't address the cause. Facelift addresses the root cause of ageing, with results lasting 10–15 years.

Yes. The principles of ageing and surgery are the same regardless of gender. Incision placement is adapted to beard, moustache and sideburn position to stay invisible and natural. Men who come for consultation are often surprised how well the procedure adapts to their anatomy and lifestyle.

Age is not the deciding criterion — tissue quality and what specifically bothers you matter more. Elastic tissue in the early to mid-forties is actually an advantage: finer operation, faster recovery, longer-lasting results. If the procedure isn't yet indicated, we'll tell you openly and suggest the right alternatives.

Smoking significantly reduces skin blood supply and slows healing, increasing complication risk. We require stopping smoking at least four weeks before — and recommend continuing abstinence for at least four weeks after. This is a medical necessity. Patients who cannot or will not stop smoking will not be operated on — this is our safety standard.

Most patients are functionally active after 10–14 days. Final result visible after 3–6 months. Almost all patients say recovery was easier than expected. Detailed week-by-week timeline in our facelift recovery article.

Office work and remote work possible after 10–14 days. Physically demanding work delayed 4–6 weeks. Discuss your specific context at consultation.

Walking encouraged immediately. Moderate sport (yoga, gentle cycling) after 3–4 weeks. Intense activities (running, weights, swimming) after 6+ weeks — elevated blood pressure in early recovery can cause bleeding.

Yes. Adult companion essential for first 48 hours — anaesthesia, drainage, general discomfort. Someone available for first week to ten days recommended. International patients travelling alone need assisted accommodation — we happily recommend options near the clinic.

Avoid direct sun on treated area for minimum 3 months. SPF 50+ mandatory every day — summer, winter, cloudy days. After 3–6 months with regular protection, no special restrictions.

Unnatural appearance is exclusively the result of outdated skin-tightening techniques. Deep Plane returns ligaments, muscles and fat pads to their anatomical position — face looks rested and rejuvenated, not operated on. Patients regularly describe situations where their environment notices a change but can't identify why.

10–15 years from a considerably better starting position. Face continues to age naturally but always looks better than without the procedure. Some patients after 10–12 years choose a smaller corrective procedure for a refresh.

Incisions placed in front of and behind the ear, along natural folds, and along the hairline. Hair grows through the hairline scar making it virtually invisible. After complete healing — 6–12 months — scars in anatomical folds are barely noticeable. Incision planning and suture technique are integral to procedure quality.

Most commonly: their environment notices a change but can't identify why. The most frequent comment: "Nobody asked if I'd had something done — they asked why I looked so good." That's exactly what we aim for: a result that refreshes, not reveals.

Deep Plane facelift from €10,000, depending on scope and combinations. Endoscopic procedures lower in cost. Exact price determined after consultation and facial analysis. Full cost breakdown in our facelift cost article.

Yes. Price includes the procedure, general anaesthesia, clinic stay, post-operative care and all follow-up appointments within the agreed period. No hidden costs. Financial transparency is as important to us as surgical transparency.

Yes. Initial consultation via video call — patient sends standardised facial photographs, we analyse and provide an honest assessment before they travel to Zagreb. We agree on a plan and schedule on that basis.

Online consultation → photograph analysis → scheduling. Patients typically stay 7–10 days in Zagreb: pre-operative exam, surgery day, early recovery. Pre-departure control appointment always included. Follow-ups can be online. We recommend accommodation near the clinic.

Same as domestic: procedure, anaesthesia, clinic stay, post-operative care and pre-departure control. Accommodation and transport not included but we recommend verified nearby options. Communication in English and German; all documents provided in writing for your GP.

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