Tag: lower facelift

Different Types of Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Procedures
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Different Types of Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Procedures

Different types of facelifts have one common goal: address the signs of facial ageing. However, choosing a facelift (rhytidectomy) procedure can be confusing. The main difference between upper, middle, and lower facelift (rhytidectomy) is the part of the face each procedure targets. An upper facelift (rhytidectomy), also called a brow lift, lifts the forehead and flattens skin folds. A mid-facelift (rhytidectomy) focuses on your cheeks and nasolabial folds. A lower facelift (rhytidectomy) emphasises the jaw by addressing jowls and wrinkles in the lower one-third of the face.

Choosing a facelift (rhytidectomy), therefore, depends on where exactly the concerns are located. If you have extensive signs of ageing, with deep wrinkles, lax deflated cheeks, large jowls, and a double chin, then a full facelift (rhytidectomy) might be the most appropriate choice.

Specialist Plastic Surgeons Dr Hunt and Dr Maryam offer their patients in Sydney and Wollongong the full spectrum of facial rejuvenation surgery. They will thoroughly explain the difference between lower, middle, and upper facelift (rhytidectomy), and help you choose the procedure to meet your aspirations.

Why Undergo Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery?

Getting a facelift (rhytidectomy) is a big decision. You should take your time to plan for your facelift (rhytidectomy) and choose an experienced plastic surgeon with a proven track record and the appropriate credentials to do your operation. Before embarking on this journey, you need to do thorough research. See how different types of facelifts (rhytidectomy) compare. Read about the difference between upper, lower, and middle facelifts (rhytidectomy) so that you can understand them better when your plastic surgeon explains them.

Guide to Facial Procedures

Facial Rejuvenation

Facial Rejuvenation

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Why Are There Different Types of Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

Signs of facial ageing vary from one person to another. In some people, wrinkles and a loss of skin laxity might be less severe and appear at a later age. They might be localised to a specific part of the face. Maybe just around the jaw and cheeks. In others, however, signs of ageing can appear as early as in their 40s. The wrinkles, skin folds, and laxity can affect the whole face and not just a part of it.

This is why facelift (rhytidectomy) is a highly individual procedure to meet each patient’s specific aspirations. And this is why there are several different types of facelifts (rhytidectomy) to choose from.

Upper Facelift (Rhytidectomy) vs Mid Facelift (Rhytidectomy) vs Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

The main difference between upper, middle, and lower facelift (rhytidectomy) is the part of the face each procedure targets. As mentioned above, facial ageing is not the same for everyone. If, for instance, you only have noticeable jowls, and you’re satisfied with the rest of your facial appearance, then a full facelift (rhytidectomy) might be unnecessary. A lower facelift (rhytidectomy) alone maybe able to address your concerns.

Upper Facelift (Brow Lift)

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

brow lift before and after - real patient - front view - large

An upper facelift is also called a brow lift or forehead lift. As the name implies, it is surgery to address the forehead and wrinkles, including skin folds in the area.

An upper facelift may help you if the signs of ageing are localised to the upper one-third of the face (the forehead). These can include:

  • Forehead skin folds
  • Deep forehead wrinkles
  • Droopy forehead
  • Deflated temples
  • Droopy eyebrows

With a brow lift, the whole forehead can be addressed. The eyebrows will be surgically pulled upward to alter the appearance. Patients may opt for an upper facelift (rhytidectomy) for a number of different reasons, including:

  • Flattening the forehead
  • Removal of forehead wrinkles
  • Removal of forehead skin folds
  • Lifts the eyebrows up

Our surgeons usually perform the upper facelift (rhytidectomy) using endoscopic surgery. Through 4 small incisions along the hairline, and with the help of an endoscope, the deep forehead tissue is pulled up and tightened. If a lot of excess skin needs to be removed, then a larger incision along the hairline might be needed.

Middle Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Middle Facelift Surgery Before and After Dr Hunt

A mid facelift (rhytidectomy), also called a cheek lift, targets the middle one-third of the face. That’s the area extending from the corner of your eyes to the corner of your mouth. The cosmetic concerns that a middle facelift generally targets are:

  • Deflated cheeks
  • Deep nasolabial folds (the line between the corner of the nose and the corner of the mouth on both sides)
  • Skin in the mid-face region
  • Wrinkles around the mouth

Why patients might consider a middle facelift (rhytidectomy):

  • Addresses the cheeks
  • Emphasizes your cheekbones
  • Addresses the middle face area
  • Flattens deep wrinkles
  • Reduces nasolabial folds/li>

In comparison with an upper facelift (rhytidectomy), the mid facelift (rhytidectomy) incisions are done on the sides of the face. Each incision starts a little above the ear and extends downward to the earlobe. The deeper facial layers are pulled up to restore the normal facial structure. The skin is tightened and any excess skin is cut.

Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

lower facelift Dr Jeremy Hunt

Compared to the upper and middle facelifts (rhytidectomy), a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) targets only the lower one-third of the face. That’s the area extending from your earlobes and down to your chin, and it includes the mouth and jaw.

The lower face is probably the most important area when it comes to facial aesthetics. A faded jawline and jowls are flagrant signs of ageing. The sharp demarcation between the jaw and face may blend together. The signs of ageing that affect the lower face include:

  • The presence of jowls
  • Faded and irregular jawline
  • Wrinkles around the mouth, chin, and jaw
  • Marionette lines (straight vertical skin lines going from the corner of the mouth to the chin)

Lifting the lower face can change the way you look. By addressing your jawline and altering its contour, the sharp edges of the lower face can be changed. The lower facelift (rhytidectomy) can:

  • Address the clear angle between your jaw and neck
  • Remove facial jowls
  • Get rid of marionette lines
  • Get rid of wrinkles around the corners of the mouth
  • Flatten wrinkles on the chin

A lower facelift (rhytidectomy) is done with an incision similar to that of a mid-facelift (rhytidectomy). However, the incision might be slightly lower and extend a little behind the ear. Through this incision, your surgeon will pull up the deep facial tissue (including muscles and connective tissue). They will then fix them in a higher position to straighten out any deep wrinkles and folds and flatten the jowls. Any excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened.

Why Patients Choose a Full Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

If you have more extensive and non-localised signs of facial ageing, then a full facelift (rhytidectomy) might be a more suitable option for you.

A full SMAS facelift (rhytidectomy) or deep plane facelift (rhytidectomy) may the most appropriate option if you’re not satisfied with other parts of your face. If you have jowls and lax skin on the cheeks, then getting only a mid-facelift (rhytidectomy) may provide less-than-ideal results. A full facelift (rhytidectomy) can, in such cases, be a more appropriate solution.

Choosing a Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Like other cosmetic procedures – the most appropriate procedure is the one you’re most comfortable with. Your surgeon will explain the differences between upper, middle, and lower facelifts (rhytidectomy) and compare the expected results with you. Together, you can choose the right type of facelift to meet your goals.

Further Reading about Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery

Medical Resources

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt Facelift Surgeon Sydney

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery in Australia. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has ensured that thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia have received high quality surgical care.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

What is the Difference Between a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) or Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery?
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

What is the Difference Between a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) or Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery?

Over time, the contours of the neck and jaw may become less and less defined due to multiple factors such as the natural ageing process, gravity and even the genetic inheritance.

Neck lift (platysmaplasty) and lower facelift (rhytidectomy) are two procedures that aim to help reduce the appearance of jowls and create more definition in the lower half of your face.

Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt offers patients in Sydney and Wollongong the full spectrum of facial surgery.

What is a Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

What is neck lift or lower facelift - Dr Jeremy Hunt Leading Plastic Surgeon Sydney NSW

A lower facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing the jowls and the neck by repositioning skin and muscles. During the surgery, the upper part of your platysma muscles that extend from the upper chest over the collarbone and sides of the neck are adjusted. They are connected to a layer of firm tissue known as the fascia. Repositioning the skin, tissues, and fat pads into their original position instantly lifts the lower part of the face and neck along with reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds.

The procedure specifically targets laugh lines, sagging cheeks and loose jowls. Your surgeon will make an incision in the front of the ears, extending to the hairline. The surgeon will then pull the skin, fat tissue and platysma muscles into a lifted position to make your jawline a tight and lifted look.

What is a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)?

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

female neck lift before and after - Dr Jeremy Hunt Leading Plastic Surgeon Sydney NSW

A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is a surgical procedure that is focused on addressing the skin of your neck. The incisions are typically made behind the ear, extending into the hairline. The surgeon will remove excess skin, and reposition the SMAS layer to give a different look to your neck. A neck lift or platysmaplasty, may be required if there needs to be significant improvement in the front of the neck.

If the patient had prominent bands on the neck, they will be addressed with a small incision under the chin during a neck lift (platysmaplasty) procedure. With age, the platysma muscles become separated and are responsible for creating two vertical bands that run from chin to chest. The neck lift allows the surgeon to sew these bands together.

If you wish to address your double chin (submental fat)along with a loose neck skin, a combination of neck lift (platysmaplasty) and liposuction is performed to remove excess fat and help to achieve a structured jaw. If the patient struggles with skin laxity, the surgeon will also perform skin removal during the procedure. For patients who struggle with excess skin laxity and wide separation of platysmal bands, your surgeon might suggest that you to undergo a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) and a neck lift (platysmaplasty) at the same time. This is due to the fact that it is nearly impossible to address the neckbands without addressing the jowls due to the continuity of face and neck muscle layers.

Main Differences between a Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) and a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)

While you will see these terms used interchangeably on the internet, there are clear differences between the two procedures. A neck lift (platysmaplasty) will not address any concerns associated with your jawline, jowls and only targets the neck. Another major difference is in terms of the incision. During the lower facelift (rhytidectomy), the surgeon will make an incision both in front of the ear and behind the ear. The incision will be extended higher to lift up the cheek area.

In the case of neck lift (platysmaplasty), the incision will be made around the ear and below the chin. In some cases when patients have minimal skin laxity, the neck lift can only be performed with the incision under the chin.

Guide to Facial Procedures

Facial Rejuvenation

Facial Rejuvenation

Name*
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Who are Suitable Candidates for a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) and Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Suitable Candidates for the Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) Surgery:

  • You have platysmal bands on the neck
  • You have major skin laxity in the neck area
  • You have realistic expectations from the treatment
  • You do not smoke or can quit it for a specified duration
  • You don’t have any health conditions that can hinder the healing process

Suitable candidates for a Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery:

  • Someone who experiences sagging jowls but very minimal sagging on the neck
  • Patients who want to get rid of the laugh lines
  • Candidates who are in generally good health with no chronic illnesses
  • People do not smoke or can quit it for a specified duration
  • Someone who has realistic expectations from the treatment

It is important to note that sometimes the surgeon will recommend a combination of these two procedures to help you achieve the desired results.

When is Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery combined with Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) Surgery?

Believe it or not, most neck lift (platysmaplasty) surgeries are coupled with a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) to achieve aesthetic and functional results on the neck and lower half of the face. This is done because neck lift (platysmaplasty) focuses on the neck region only. On the other hand, a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) primarily focuses on the lower half of the face.

By addressingf lax skin, repositioning underlying muscles, tissues, and underlying structures, the combination of both these procedures may provide a lifting effect while visibly minimising the signs of ageing. As a result, you may notice a change in the appearance of your chin and jawline, as well as nasolabial folds, cheeks, and neck wrinkles/bands.

Potential Risks of Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) and Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

drhunt blogpage img What is the Difference Between a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) or Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery? - 1

Like any other cosmetic surgery, lower facelift (rhytidectomy) and neck lift (platysmaplasty) carries some potential risks and complications. One of the main risks associated with both these surgeries is hematoma – a collection of blood under the skin. It is important to avoid all blood-thinning medications and herbal supplements that can lead to increased bleeding.

It is also advised to refrain from exercising and heavy lifting for at least four weeks post-surgery to reduce the risk of complications. Patients need to stop smoking for at least a few weeks before & after the surgery as it can lead to skin necrosis, prevent effective wound healing and even infection. Another less common but possible risk is injury to facial nerves.

Other risks, though all uncommon include facial asymmetry, bleeding, prolonged swelling, numbness, persistent pain, skin loss, skin irregularities and discolouration, hair loss along with the incision sites and unfavourable scarring.

FAQS about Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) and Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Procedures

Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding neck lift (platysmaplasty) and lower facelift (rhytidectomy):

What is the difference between a mini facelift (rhytidectomy) vs neck lift (platysmaplasty)?

  • A mini facelift (rhytidectomy) is relatively less invasive than a full facelift (rhytidectomy) surgery. The surgeon will create incisions in front of the ears which extend from the hairline to the bottom of the earlobe and pull the skin and tissues towards the ears, helping to create a tighter appearance. A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is focused on altering the appearance of your neck, rather than the face. The surgeon will remove the excess skin along with tightening the neck muscles, tissues and skin.

What is a mini neck lift (platysmaplasty)?

  • A mini neck lift (platysmaplasty) is a surgical procedure that addresses lax skin in the neck and underneath the chin. A less invasive version of a neck lift (platysmaplasty).

How much does neck lift (platysmaplasty) and lower facelift (rhytidectomy) cost in Australia?

  • The cost of a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) and neck lift (platysmaplasty) in Australia varies significantly from surgeon to surgeon based on their experience, expertise, aesthetic goals, facility and plenty of other factors. Phone the team for an estimate.

Is a neck lift (platysmaplasty) the same as a lower facelift (rhytidectomy)?

  • Although you will see these two terms used interchangeably on the internet, these two are quite different procedures. The goal of the lower facelift (rhytidectomy) is to lift up the lower half of the face and sharpen the look of your jawline. On the other hand, a neck lift (platysmaplasty) aims to remove excess skin on your neck while tightening up your skin, tissues and muscles around the neck area.

Does a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) include the neck?

  • No, a lower facelift (rhytidectomy) does not include a neck lift. However, in some cases, the surgeon might recommend you to get both these procedures done at the same time.

Can I see neck lift (platysmaplasty) and lower facelift (rhytidectomy) before and after photographs during the consultation?

  • Of course, once you come in for a consultation, you will be shown plenty of before and after patient photographs, so you can get a better idea of what your results will look like.

before and after neck lift or lower facelift - Dr Jeremy Hunt Leading Plastic Surgeon Sydney NSW

How long do the results last?

  • Expect the results to last for around 10 years or more. You may need another facial surgery in future.

At what age should you get a neck lift (platysmaplasty)?

  • There is no magic number when it comes to getting neck lift (platysmaplasty) surgery. However, most people who get the surgery are between 35 to 65 years old.

What is the right age to have a facelift (rhytidectomy)?

  • There is no right or wrong age to get a facelift (rhytidectomy) done. Most people who get the facelift (rhytidectomy) are in their 40s, 50s, and 60s.

Does a neck lift (platysmaplast) get rid of jowls?

  • While neck lift (platysmaplasty) can improve the look of jowls, patients with moderate to severe jowls could benefit more from a combination of different facial procedures rather than only a neck lift (platysmaplasty).

What is the right neck tightening procedure?

  • A neck lift (platysmaplasty) might be the optimal neck tightening procedure that completely transforms the look of your neck.

Further Reading about Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) and Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery

Medical References about Neck lift (Platysmaplasty) and Lower Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery in Australia. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has ensured that thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia have received high quality surgical care.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.