What types of facelifts are there?

There is a lot of confusion surrounding the terminology used for facelifts. Below, we explain the three types of facelift available and what you can expect from each.

S-lift

The least invasive type of facelift is the S-lift, sometimes also referred to as a mini facelift or mini lift. During this procedure, an S-shaped incision is made in the skin in front of the ear. After a limited area of skin has been separated from the underlying tissue, the skin is pulled towards the ear to restore the original contour of the jawline. An S-shaped strip of excess skin is then removed, and the incision is closed with sutures.

An S-lift only improves the area just above the jawline. It can correct so-called jowls, creating a more defined jawline. However, wrinkles around the mouth, lips and eyes will not disappear following an S-lift.

The S-lift involves lifting only the superficial skin tissue, without repositioning the underlying muscle tissue. The procedure is performed as day surgery and can be carried out under local anaesthesia. If you prefer, you can also opt for an S-lift under general anaesthesia. In most cases, you can return home the same day.

MACS facelift

Unlike the superficial skin tightening performed during an S-lift, a MACS lift tightens not only the facial skin but also the deeper tissue layers. This so-called SMAS tissue (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) is heavier than the skin itself and can cause the overlying tissue layers, including the skin and fatty tissue, to sag.

During a MACS lift, the plastic surgeon makes an incision from the temple, along the hairline, and down in front of the ear. Once the skin and muscle tissue have been separated from the underlying tissue layer, the facial tissues on both sides are tightened towards the ear and temple. The plastic surgeon secures the tissue with sutures to restore it to a more youthful position. This technique is also known as plication, in which the tissue is folded and stitched in place to create a tightening effect.

The overlying skin is tightened in the same direction. Excess skin is removed, and the incision is closed with sutures.

Because a MACS lift also addresses the deeper tissue layers, it generally provides longer-lasting results than an S-lift. A MACS lift can reduce deep folds around the mouth and correct jowls.

A MACS lift is always performed as day surgery, which means you can generally return home the same day.

Face and neck lift

The combined face and neck lift is the most extensive type of facelift and generally provides the most comprehensive results. As with a MACS lift, the plastic surgeon makes an incision from the temples downwards, following the front of the ear. The incision continues beneath the earlobe and extends upwards into the hairline behind the ear. This approach also allows the tissue in the neck to be tightened.

A face and neck lift therefore improves both the face and the area beneath the jawline. It can reduce deep folds in the face and neck, resulting in a firmer, more defined appearance.

An eyelid correction can also be performed in addition to a face and neck lift.

A face and neck lift is always performed under general anaesthesia and includes an overnight hospital stay. In most cases, you can return home the following morning.

Neck lift

A neck lift (also known as Z-plasty) can be a suitable option for excess, sagging skin beneath the chin and in the neck, sometimes referred to as a “turkey neck”.

During this procedure, a small Z-shaped incision is made just beneath the chin to tighten the skin. This treatment only improves the neck area and leaves a visible scar.

People with sagging skin beneath the chin may consider this procedure. However, a neck lift alone does not always achieve the desired result. In many cases, sagging in the neck is caused not only by loose skin but also by weakened neck muscles.

In such cases, a combined face and neck lift may be recommended. During this procedure, the skin and underlying muscle tissue are tightened through incisions behind the ears, improving the appearance of the entire neck.

A neck lift (Z-plasty) can be performed under local anaesthesia as day surgery. This means you can generally return home the same day.