Facelift Surgery - Ozan Seymen Sezen

Facelift Surgery : The face is one of the areas where time leaves its marks most quickly. As we age, the skin loses its elasticity, sagging occurs due to gravity, and wrinkles deepen with the movement of facial muscles. These changes can make a person appear more tired, unhappy, or older than their actual age. Thanks to modern aesthetic surgical techniques, it is now possible to achieve rejuvenation without harming the natural structure of the face. At this point, facelift surgery stands as one of the most powerful tools in aesthetic surgery.

In Istanbul, at his own clinic, Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen plans facelift surgeries according to each individual’s facial anatomy, offering natural, balanced, and long-lasting results.

In this article, the definition of facelift surgery, its suitable candidates, application methods, recovery process, risks, and especially current surgical approaches such as the deep plane facelift technique will be examined in detail.

What Is Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery is one of the most comprehensive facial rejuvenation operations in the field of aesthetic surgery. Technically, it is called “rhytidectomy.” The goal is to eliminate sagging, wrinkles, and laxity of the skin, reshape the lower two thirds of the face, and restore the overall facial contour.

This surgery addresses not only the skin but also the underlying connective tissue and muscle system (SMAS – Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). Today, more effective and permanent techniques that treat all facial layers together with deep structures, not just superficial tissues, are preferred.

Who Is a Candidate for Facelift Surgery?

Ideal candidates for facelift surgery are individuals who:

Experience noticeable sagging and laxity in the face
Have lost skin elasticity
Have excess skin and sagging in the neck area
Are psychologically bothered by an aged appearance
Are in good overall health with no contraindications to surgery
Have realistic expectations

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen creates a personalized surgical plan by considering both the patient’s physical findings and emotional expectations during preoperative evaluations.
What Is Deep Plane Facelift?

Deep plane facelift differs from classic techniques by addressing not only the skin and SMAS layer but also the deeper tissue layers beneath. This advanced surgical technique aims to lift supporting structures in harmony with the natural direction of facial muscle movements.

The deep plane technique is particularly effective for:

Softening nasolabial folds
Enhancing the natural volume of the cheekbones
Reshaping the midface and jawline
Eliminating sagging in the jowl and neck areas

This method preserves the natural facial expression, avoids an “operated-on” look, and provides much longer-lasting results.
Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen successfully applies this advanced anatomical technique, maintaining both functional and aesthetic integrity in facial rejuvenation.

How Is Facelift Surgery Performed?

Facelift surgery can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia, depending on patient needs and chosen techniques. The operation lasts approximately 3 to 6 hours. The procedure is customized to the facial anatomy and involves the following steps:

Incisions: In deep plane facelift, incisions are generally planned to extend from in front of the ear, around the earlobe, and into the hairline, hiding scars along natural contours.

Mobilization of Deep Tissues: The facial connective tissue (SMAS) and muscle layer are released from underneath, not just the skin, and lifted to a higher anatomical position.

Directional Lifting: Deep plane techniques allow lifting in an upward and slightly lateral direction, countering the natural aging vector of the face.

Fat Grafting if Needed: Autologous fat may be injected into areas of volume loss to restore fullness.

Skin Redraping and Excision: Excess skin is trimmed, redraped, and closed with aesthetic sutures.

The greatest advantage of deep plane surgery is preserving natural facial movements while rejuvenating the face. Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen applies all these steps with minimal trauma and maximum naturalness.

Recovery Process After Facelift Surgery

The recovery process varies according to the technique used, the surgeon’s experience, and the patient’s physiology. Although deep plane techniques may entail a slightly longer recovery than classic facelifts, the results are far more durable.

First Days: It is normal to have swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness. Rest is crucial during the first 2–3 days.

Cold Compresses and Head Elevation: To reduce swelling, cold compresses should be applied for the first 48 hours, and the head should be kept elevated.

Drains: Drains placed to prevent fluid accumulation are usually removed within 1–2 days.

Follow-up and Dressings: Regular check-ups and dressing changes occur in the first week. Sutures (if not absorbable) are typically removed around day 7.

Return to Daily Activities: Light activities can usually be resumed within 10–14 days. Complete resolution of swelling and final facial contour settling can take 3–6 weeks.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen closely monitors postoperative progress, supporting patients at every stage of healing.

Risks and Complications of Facelift Surgery

As with any surgical intervention, facelift surgery carries some risks, but these are minimized when performed by an experienced surgeon.

Possible complications include:

Bleeding and hematoma: May occur early but can be prevented with drains.
Infection: Rare and treatable with antibiotics.
Nerve injury: Deep plane surgery requires precise anatomical knowledge. Temporary numbness or, very rarely, temporary muscle weakness may occur.
Scarring: Properly placed incisions fade over time and are concealed along natural lines.
Asymmetry: Temporary asymmetries can arise from swelling.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen employs meticulous preoperative planning, tissue-respecting techniques, and systematic follow-up to minimize these risks.
Is the Results of Facelift Surgery Permanent?

The effects are long-lasting, but the aging process continues. The average duration of effect is 10–15 years.

Will My Face Look Natural?

Yes. Deep plane facelift preserves facial expressions and muscle movements, avoiding an “operated-on” appearance.

When Will I See the Final Results?

Swelling may persist during the first weeks. Final results typically become apparent after 6–8 weeks.

What Is the Ideal Age for Facelift Surgery?

It is generally ideal after age 40, but this can vary depending on individual facial structure and the rate of aging.

Can Men Also Have Facelift Surgery?

Yes. In recent years, the number of men undergoing facelift surgery has increased. The techniques are adapted to male anatomy.

Facelift surgery is one of the most effective and comprehensive aesthetic procedures for facial rejuvenation. Especially the deep plane technique offers anatomical and durable solutions to aging changes across all facial layers, producing a younger and more dynamic appearance while preserving natural expression.

In Istanbul, ENT Specialist Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen combines a scientific perspective with an artistic aesthetic approach, providing personalized solutions for each patient’s facial features.

If you wish to address signs of aging, achieve a more youthful and natural look, or learn more about the deep plane facelift, contact Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen to schedule a detailed evaluation.