Facial Aesthetics
Facial aesthetics is the general term for all surgical or non-surgical procedures performed by a plastic surgeon to address wrinkles, sagging, volume loss, asymmetry, or structural disproportions in the facial area. The neck region is also evaluated within the scope of facial aesthetics. Facial aesthetics has two primary goals: to achieve a younger and tighter appearance, or to correct congenital or acquired structural issues.
Surgical Facial Aesthetic Methods
Facelift / Rhytidectomy
A facelift is the most comprehensive facial aesthetic surgery performed to eliminate sagging and excess skin in the face and neck area due to aging. Generally recommended for patients over the age of 45, this operation involves an incision that starts in front of the ear and extends into the scalp; the deep muscle and tissue layer of the face (SMAS) is repositioned, and excess skin is removed to provide a natural and lasting youthful appearance. The surgery takes 3–5 hours under general anesthesia. The average recovery time is 2–3 weeks; the full results emerge in 3–6 months. Its effect remains permanent for 7–10 years.
Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)
Located at the center of the face, the nose directly affects overall facial balance. Rhinoplasty addresses both aesthetic and functional issues, such as a hump on the nasal bridge, a wide nasal tip, asymmetry, crookedness, or breathing difficulties. With state-of-the-art 3D simulation systems, the expected post-operative outcome can be visually demonstrated to the patient before the surgery.
Otoplasty (Ear Aesthetics)
This is the process of bringing prominent ears—also known as bat ears—closer to the head. This surgery, which can be performed starting from childhood, is carried out using cartilage shaping techniques. A thin scar forms behind the ear, which is not permanent and fades over time.
Brow Lift / Forehead Lift
This operation is performed to lift drooping eyebrows and eliminate deep wrinkles in the forehead area. It can be carried out using an open or endoscopic (camera-assisted, smaller incision) technique. In the endoscopic method, micro-incisions made within the scalp leave almost no visible scars on the face.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
This operation corrects excess skin, fatty bags, and sagging in the upper or lower eyelids. When upper eyelid sagging progresses to the point of narrowing the visual field, it also becomes a functional necessity. Incision scars are hidden within the natural creases and fade significantly over time. It can be performed in the same session as a facelift.
Cheek and Chin Aesthetics (Implants / Genioplasty)
Silicone implants or bone shaping (genioplasty) methods are used to define the cheekbones or to advance/recede the chin tip. These procedures, which add volume and symmetry to facial features, can be combined with other facial aesthetic surgeries.
Neck Lift Surgery
This operation is performed for skin sagging, band appearance, and the “double chin” problem in the neck area. It is frequently planned simultaneously with facelift surgery. By reorganizing the neck muscles (platysma), a sharp and youthful chin-neck profile is achieved.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Facial Aesthetics?
Facial aesthetics can be applied to individuals of all ages and genders; however, needs and methods vary significantly from person to person.
Aşağıdaki durumlarda facial aesthetics tercih edilmektedir:
- Those experiencing age-related changes: Individuals who are bothered by wrinkles, skin sagging, under-eye bags, and forehead lines turn to facial rejuvenation operations.
- Those experiencing structural issues: Patients with congenital or acquired shape defects in areas such as the nose, chin, ears, or eyelids.
- Those needing reconstruction after trauma or disease: Situations requiring repair in the facial area after an accident, burn, or cancer treatment.
Individuals who are in good general health, who do not smoke (or can quit prior to surgery), and who have realistic expectations are ideal candidates. A face-to-face consultation with a plastic surgeon is essential for the most accurate decision.
Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetic Methods
Not every patient presents a case that requires surgery. In instances of early signs of aging or mild sagging, many effective non-surgical methods are available in facial aesthetics as a pre-surgical option or alternative.
Botox (Botulinum Toxin)
It is used in the treatment of expression wrinkles, such as forehead lines, crow’s feet around the eyes, and frown lines between the eyebrows. Small doses applied to the muscles limit movement, preventing the formation of wrinkles. Its effect lasts for 4–6 months.
Facial Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid Fillers)
It is used to add volume and fullness to the cheeks, lips, nasolabial folds, forehead, and jawlines. It provides reversible and natural-looking results. The duration of the effect varies between 6 months and 2 years depending on the treated area.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy
This involves injecting platelet-rich plasma, obtained from the patient’s own blood, into the face. It stimulates skin renewal and collagen production. The risk of allergy and infection is extremely low.
Chemical Peeling
It exfoliates the top layer of the skin to reduce blemishes, acne scars, and superficial wrinkles. The collagen synthesis that begins after a chemical peel makes the skin look brighter and younger.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
With fractional laser technology, the superficial layers of the skin are renewed in a controlled manner. It is effective on wrinkles, blemishes, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture. Different laser types target different skin concerns; the correct laser choice should be made by the surgeon.
Ultrasound and Radiofrequency Applications
These are methods that trigger collagen renewal by heating the subcutaneous tissue. While suitable for moderate sagging and skin laxity, surgery is generally required for advanced levels of sagging.
Facial Aesthetic Surgery: How Does the Process Work?
Pre-Operative Evaluation
The first and most critical step in facial aesthetics is the face-to-face consultation with the plastic surgeon. During this meeting:
- Facial anatomy and skin structure are examined in detail.
- The patient’s expectations are evaluated within a realistic framework.
- Post-operative outcomes can be simulated using 3D facial analysis.
- Combined operations that can be performed together are planned.
The Surgical Process
Facial aesthetic surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in a sterile hospital environment. Operation times vary depending on the method:
- Eyelid aesthetics: 1–2 hours
- Brow lift: 1–2 hours
- Facelift: 3–5 hours
- Combined operations: 4–6 hours
Post-Operative Recovery Process
- First 24–48 hours: Observation in the hospital; drains are removed if present. A compression bandage is applied.
- Week 1: Edema and bruising are prominent; rest is essential. Sutures are usually removed on the 6th or 7th day.
- Weeks 2–3: Returning to social life is possible; however, makeup restrictions and sun protection are important.
- Months 1–3: Edema subsides significantly, and the results begin to become clear.
- Month 6: The final result emerges, and incision scars fade.
Aspirin, vitamin E, and blood-thinning medications must be discontinued at least 1 week before surgery. Stopping smoking significantly accelerates the healing process.
