What does a facelift treat? A facelift improves laxity in the lower face, jowls and jawline. A neck lift may be added for loose neck skin, muscle bands or submental contour. It does not stop ageing or remove every facial line. Mini facelift or full facelift: which is right for me? A mini facelift treats more limited lower-face laxity and usually has a shorter incision and recovery. A full facelift addresses more extensive facial and neck ageing. Examination, tissue quality and goals determine the appropriate plan. Who is a suitable candidate? Suitable patients are generally healthy adults with realistic expectations, facial or neck laxity and acceptable anaesthetic risk. Smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions and some medications can increase complications. How long is facelift recovery? Bruising, swelling, tightness and temporary numbness are expected. Many patients plan about two to four weeks for social and work recovery, while residual swelling and scar maturation continue for months. Follow your surgeon’s individual restrictions. How long should I stay in Istanbul? The recommended stay depends on the operation, drains, suture checks, wound review and travel risk. International patients should not book return travel until their surgeon confirms a safe timeline. Where are facelift scars? Incisions are commonly placed around the ear and hairline; a neck lift may add an incision under the chin. Scar length and placement depend on the technique. Scars fade but do not disappear completely. How long do results last? A facelift can provide long-lasting improvement, but it does not stop natural ageing. Genetics, sun exposure, smoking, weight change and skin care influence how the result evolves. No exact duration can be guaranteed. Facelift or fillers and threads? Fillers restore selected volume and threads may offer temporary, limited lifting. They do not remove substantial loose skin or reposition deeper facial tissues in the same way as surgery. What are the main risks? Risks include bleeding or haematoma, infection, fluid collection, delayed healing, skin loss, visible scarring, asymmetry, sensory change, facial nerve weakness, hair loss around incisions, blood clots, anaesthesia complications and revision surgery. Can facelift be combined with eyelid surgery or fat transfer? Sometimes, in carefully selected patients. Combining procedures can address multiple areas but increases operating time and may change recovery and risk. The plan follows individual assessment rather than a standard package.