About facelifts
Facelifts are usually conducted under general anesthesia, allowing you to be asleep and pain-free during the entire procedure. The placement of incisions varies depending on the specific technique employed, the amount of excess skin to be removed, the extent of muscle lifting, and the patient’s gender.
A traditional facelift involves lifting the underlying muscles and removing excess skin. The resulting scars are usually well-hidden, placed within the hairline, just above the ear, and following the natural contours of the ear.
At Victoriakliniken, we primarily utilize the “short scar facelift” or “S-lift” technique to minimize scarring. With this approach, the incision ends discreetly behind the ear, resulting in scars that are nearly invisible. Patients typically stay overnight and are able to return home the following day.
Quick facts about the procedure
Operation time: 3 hours
Stay at clinic: 1-2 days.
Return to work: Expected after 1-2 weeks.
Before the surgery
We tailor our approach to each individual patient, considering their unique facial features and skin quality. Our assessment evaluates factors such as excess skin and the specific areas that require lifting to determine the best surgical plan.
We will discuss various surgical techniques and guide you through the entire procedure. In some cases, we may recommend combining the facelift with fat grafting to enhance volume. Additional procedures such as brow lifts, mid-face lifts, and eyelid surgery may also be considered to achieve your desired outcome.
During the surgery
You will be asleep and pain-free during the entire procedure, as the surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Patients usually stay overnight at the clinic for observation.
Smaller procedures can be performed using local anesthesia. You may experience some tightness and tenderness around the incisions for the first few days, but this discomfort is typically mild and can be relieved with standard pain medications. You will be given a prescription for pain relievers to take home.
After the surgery
You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon at the clinic approximately one and two weeks after your surgery. The scars from the procedure are typically very subtle and will gradually fade over time, leaving only fine white lines.
To enhance your recovery and minimize swelling, we will provide you with a compression mask to wear for the first three weeks following surgery.
Results
It may take some time for the final results to become fully visible. Swelling and a reduced sensation in the face are normal during the first three days.
Within three weeks, you should notice a significant reduction in swelling. The final outcome will be fully visible within three to six months.
Before and After Pictures
Fillers och Botox –
Complete your facelift
Complement your facelift with fillers and Botox to optimize your results. These treatments help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, restore facial volume, and improve skin elasticity. Together, they create a comprehensive solution that enhances your facelift results, giving you a more youthful and balanced appearance.
Complications that can occur with a facelift
Reduced healing
In patients with reduced circulation, such as diabetics or smokers, and patients with atherosclerosis, there is a risk that small areas of skin around and behind the ears may not heal properly. In these cases, a black crust forms and falls off after a few weeks. The wound heals but may leave an unsightly scar that might need correction.
Temporary nerve impairment
In rare cases, the nerves controlling facial muscle movements may be affected, likely due to swelling or tension on the nerves. If this happens, it is usually a temporary injury, and recovery typically occurs within 3–6 months.
Damage to the sensory nerve in the ear
The ear’s sensory nerve is also located in the surgical area. It is usually easy to see because it is large and is therefore rarely damaged. If damage occurs, the surgeon will repair it immediately, but it may lead to a small and temporary loss of sensation in the earlobe.
Loss of sensation along the incisions
Loss of sensation along the incisions may occur immediately after the surgery. This is usually temporary but can, in rare cases, become permanent.
Increased scar activity
Increased scar activity is an uncommon complication. After six months, the scars are usually very difficult to see because the incisions are made in areas with hair or in natural folds. Sometimes, scars may widen. This is typically due to a combination of excessive tension on the skin, as well as a lack of skin elasticity and healing ability.
Hair loss along the edges of the scar
In some patients, hair loss may occur along the edges of the scar. However, the hair typically grows back within six months.
Professional service from the start! I highly recommend VK. Everything from tips, advice, surgery, aftercare, and follow-up visits. The same high level of service every time. Breast surgery and facelift to my greatest satisfaction!!
Frequently Asked Questions About Facelifts at Victoriakliniken
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the face and neck by removing excess skin and tightening the underlying muscles. At Victoriakliniken, we specialize in facelifts and provide tailored solutions designed to achieve natural and long-lasting results.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?<br>A facelift is ideal for individuals who want to address visible signs of aging in the face and neck. It is suitable for:
A facelift is suitable for both women and men who want to address signs of aging in the face and neck, such as:
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Loose skin on the face and neck
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Deep wrinkles and folds in the face
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Loss of volume and definition in the cheeks and jawline
Facelifts are typically performed on individuals between the ages of 40 and 65, but older patients can also achieve excellent results.
How Is a Facelift Performed at Victoriakliniken?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about 3 hours. We often use the “short scar facelift” technique, which minimizes scarring. During the surgery, the facial musculature is lifted, and excess skin is removed. After the procedure, you will usually stay overnight at the clinic for observation to ensure a safe and comfortable recovery.
How Long Is the Recovery Time After a Facelift?
Most patients can return to light work tasks within 1–2 weeks. It is essential to avoid strenuous activities and wear a compression mask for three weeks after the procedure to reduce swelling and support healing.
What Are the Risks of a Facelift?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a facelift, including:
- Loss of sensation
- Scar formation
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Infections
At Victoriakliniken, we take every possible precaution to minimize these risks and ensure you achieve a safe and successful outcome.
What Is the Cost of a Facelift at Victoriakliniken?
The price of a facelift in Stockholm varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and your individual needs. During your consultation, we will discuss your goals and provide a personalized quote. Facelift prices start at 95,000 SEK.
What Is the Difference Between a Facelift and a Neck Lift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) primarily focuses on tightening and rejuvenating the face by lifting the skin and underlying tissues, particularly in areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and around the mouth. The goal is to reduce wrinkles, enhance facial contours, and achieve a more youthful appearance.
A neck lift focuses specifically on the neck area. It tightens loose skin, removes excess fat under the chin, and improves the neck’s contours. This procedure is particularly effective for addressing issues like a “turkey neck” or double chin, restoring a smoother and more defined appearance.
In many cases, a facelift and neck lift are combined to create a harmonious and natural result, as the face and neck age together and visually influence one another. During a consultation, we will help determine which procedure or combination of treatments best suits your needs.
Are There Any Restrictions After the Surgery?
Yes, there are certain restrictions after the surgery, such as avoiding strenuous activities, sun exposure, and smoking. We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for yourself during the recovery period to ensure optimal healing and results.
Do You Have Before-and-After Photos of Facelifts?
Yes, at Victoriakliniken, we have one of the largest collections of before-and-after photos in the Nordics for facelifts and other aesthetic treatments. These images provide insight into the incredible results we’ve achieved for our patients and help you set realistic expectations for your own treatment.
You are warmly welcome to explore our photo gallery and contact us for a consultation, where we can review examples and tailor a treatment plan to meet your needs.
What Results Can I Expect After a Facelift?
You can expect a more youthful and defined facial contour, with fewer wrinkles and less loose skin. The final results are typically visible after 3–6 months, once all swelling has subsided.
How Long Does a Facelift Last?
The results of a facelift are long-lasting but are influenced by natural aging processes, lifestyle, and individual skin characteristics. Generally, a facelift can maintain its effects for 8 to 12 years before signs of aging become more noticeable again. To maximize and prolong the results, it is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, use sun protection, and follow a regular skincare routine.
At What Age Is It Best to Get a Facelift?
There is no specific age that is best for a facelift, as the need varies depending on an individual’s skin quality, aging process, and personal goals. Many people who consider a facelift are between the ages of 40 and 60, but the procedure can also be suitable for younger or older individuals, depending on their unique circumstances.
A consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can help determine if and when a facelift is the right choice for you. We tailor the treatment to your unique needs and goals to achieve a natural and long-lasting result.
Which Clinic Is Best for Facelifts?
Victoriakliniken is internationally recognized for its expertise in plastic surgery, including facelifts. With a team of highly skilled and experienced surgeons, we utilize advanced techniques and provide customized treatments to achieve natural and harmonious results. Our commitment is to deliver the highest standards of safety, comfort, and aesthetic perfection for our patients.
Price
We have chosen not to have a fixed price list, as each patient is unique with individual needs. In most cases, it’s only during the consultation that we can determine, together with you, which procedure(s) will be best to achieve a beautiful final result. With us, in addition to the surgery cost, anesthesia, medications, follow-up visits, compression garments, and bras are included, as well as, in most cases, at least one overnight stay after the surgery.
In general, all prices are shown including VAT, as all procedures and treatments, except those performed for medical reasons, have been subject to VAT since the turn of the year 2014/2015. In cases where the price is listed excluding VAT, it is because these procedures are always performed on a medical basis. (Prices below include VAT)