Facial Aesthetics · Surgical
Face & Neck Lift
Deep-plane face and neck lift
Face and neck lift in Istanbul: a deep-plane approach that lifts the deeper tissues for a natural rather than pulled look — within a carefully planned 7–10 day stay.
Last medical review:Dr. Selin Arcan
- Duration
- 4–6 hours
- Anaesthesia
- General anaesthesia
- Hospital stay
- 1 night
- Stay in Istanbul
- 7–10 days
- Recovery
- Back to social life in 2–3 weeks
- Results
- Final result at 6–12 months
Overview
A facelift repositions the tissues of the cheeks, jawline and neck that descend over time, aiming for a rested appearance. The goal is not a different face but a refreshed version of your own, with your expression intact.
In the deep-plane technique, the skin is lifted as a single unit with the layer of muscle and connective tissue beneath it (the SMAS). With no tension on the skin, the aim is a natural rather than pulled look. A neck lift is usually part of the same operation.
Incisions are hidden in the natural creases around the ear and within the hairline. Surgery takes place under general anaesthesia in our accredited partner hospital, and eyelid surgery or fat transfer can be added in the same session where appropriate.
Who is it for?
- Anyone noticing descent or volume loss in the mid-face and cheeks
- People with a softening jawline or deepening lines around the mouth
- Those bothered by loose skin or visible bands in the neck
- Patients for whom fillers or non-surgical lifting no longer suffice
- Adults in good general health who do not smoke, or are able to stop
Techniques & options
01
Deep-plane facelift
The skin and SMAS are repositioned as a single unit, aiming for a natural refinement of the mid-face and jawline without tension on the skin.
02
Neck lift
Through a small incision under the chin, the neck muscle (platysma) is tightened and excess fat removed where needed. Usually combined with a facelift.
03
Mini facelift
Performed through a shorter incision for earlier signs of laxity. Its effect is limited to the lower face and jawline, with a shorter recovery.
04
Combined with fat transfer
Your own fat is transferred to areas of volume loss such as the cheeks, temples or under the eyes, adding soft, natural fullness alongside the lift.
How it works
- 1
Online assessment
You share your photos; your surgeon listens to your goals, reviews your medical history and prepares a personal preliminary plan.
- 2
Arrival and consultation
You are met at the airport and settled into your hotel. The same day brings facial analysis, pre-operative tests and an anaesthesia review.
- 3
Surgery day
The 4–6 hour operation is performed under general anaesthesia, followed by one night of nurse-supervised rest in hospital. Any drains are usually removed the next day.
- 4
Recovery at the hotel
Your coordinator schedules your check-ins and dressing changes; cold therapy and medication keep you comfortable and swelling under control.
- 5
Final check and flight home
Your stitches are removed and you receive guidance on scar care and sun protection. Online follow-ups continue for 12 months.
Recovery timeline
Days 1–3
Rest
You rest with your head elevated. Swelling and bruising are expected; most people notice tightness and numbness more than pain.
Days 4–10
Recovering
Bruising begins to fade and short walks are encouraged. Your stitches are removed at the final check.
Weeks 2–3
Social life
Visible swelling largely settles and, with light make-up, most people return to work and social plans. Numbness around the ears may linger.
Months 1–3
Active life
Light exercise can resume; more strenuous sport waits for your surgeon's approval. As subtle swelling resolves, your contours become more defined.
Months 6–12
Final result
The tissues settle fully. The scars fade over time and usually become hard to notice within the natural creases around the ear.
The doctor planning your treatment
14 years' experience
Dr. Selin Arcan
Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. Selin Arcan is known for a surgical approach built on preserving facial proportions and natural-looking results. In rhinoplasty she gives structural preservation and breathing as much weight as aesthetics.
ISAPSTPRECDEBOPRAS
Frequently asked questions
Will I look pulled or unnatural?
Is the neck treated in the same operation?
Can it be combined with eyelid surgery?
Will there be scars, and what are the risks?
When can I fly home?
How long do the results last?
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a personal medical assessment. The possible risks of any treatment, and whether it suits you, are discussed in detail at your consultation.
Related treatments
SurgicalFacial Aesthetics
Eyelid Surgery
A rested, open look — and an expression that remains your own.
- Duration
- 1–3 hours
- Stay in Istanbul
- 7 days
Non-surgicalAesthetic Medicine
Non-Surgical Lifting
A gentle lift and firming that develops over time — without surgery.
- Duration
- 45–90 minutes
- Stay in Istanbul
- 2–3 days
Non-surgicalAesthetic Medicine
Botox & Fillers
Measured touches that refresh your face without changing your expression.
- Duration
- 30–45 minutes
- Stay in Istanbul
- 1–2 days
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