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Face Lift

Facial ageing leads to changes such as loose skin, deep folds, sagging jowls, and loss of definition along the jawline. Over time, the skin loses elasticity, muscles weaken, and fat shifts, affecting overall facial balance.

A face lift is a procedure that lifts and repositions facial tissues, reducing sagging and smoothing wrinkles for a more youthful appearance. This treatment restores natural contours by tightening underlying structures and removing excess skin while maintaining facial harmony and expression.

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Dr Terence Goh

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Ideal Candidates for a Face Lift

A face lift is suited to individuals who:

  • Have loose or sagging skin on the lower face
  • Experience jowls or a less defined jawline
  • Notice deep folds around the nose and mouth
  • Want to restore facial contours for a refreshed look
  • Prefer a long-term solution to improve signs of ageing

Benefits of a Face Lift

  • Smooths Deep Wrinkles and Creases

    A face lift reduces nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth) and marionette lines (creases from the mouth to the chin), creating a softer, rested appearance.

  • Lifts Sagging Facial Tissues

    By repositioning underlying structures and loose skin, the procedure improves facial definition and firmness.

  • Defines the Jawline and Reduces Jowls

    As facial tissues weaken, jowls form along the jawline. A face lift restores definition by lifting sagging skin and reducing fullness in the lower face.

  • Restores Facial Volume and Balance

    Ageing leads to volume loss in the mid-face, which can make the face appear sunken. A face lift can reposition tissues and restore natural proportions, improving cheek fullness.

  • Enhances Facial Proportions Without an Overdone Look

    A well-planned face lift ensures subtle, natural-looking improvements while maintaining facial expression and movement.

Types of Face Lift Procedures

Full Face Lift

This approach addresses moderate to severe skin laxity in the mid-face, lower face, and jawline. It is suitable for those with deep wrinkles, sagging jowls, and significant volume loss.

Mini Face Lift

A mini face lift, also referred to as a limited incision facelift, is less invasive and suited for mild to moderate skin laxity. It focuses on the lower face and jowls using shorter incisions, leading to a quicker recovery period.

Mid-Face Lift

This procedure lifts sagging cheeks and reduces deep folds, restoring fullness in the mid-face while enhancing the under-eye area. It is often recommended for individuals with hollow cheeks or prominent nasolabial folds.

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Preparing for the Procedure

Consultation and Planning

The consultation assesses skin elasticity, facial structure, and signs of ageing, including wrinkles, sagging, and volume loss. The severity of these changes determines the most suitable surgical approach. A personalised treatment plan is created to restore facial proportions and natural definition for a balanced, refreshed look.

Pre-Surgical Guidelines

To support healing and minimise complications, blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements should be avoided for at least two weeks before surgery. Smoking should also be stopped at least two weeks in advance, as it affects circulation and may delay recovery.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Anaesthesia Administration

A face lift is performed under general anaesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation with local anaesthetic, ensuring comfort during the procedure. The choice of anaesthesia depends on the extent of the procedure and individual preference.

2. Incision Placement

Incisions are placed along the hairline and around the ears, following natural skin folds to minimise visibility. For individuals undergoing a mini facelift, shorter incisions are made at the temples and continue around the ear, allowing for a more targeted lift.

3. Lifting and Tightening

Underlying facial tissues and muscles are sculpted, repositioned, and secured to restore natural contours, enhance definition, and improve firmness. In a full facelift, fat may also be redistributed from the face and jowls to improve volume balance. By targeting deeper layers, the procedure ensures long-lasting improvements in facial shape and balance while preserving natural expressions.

4. Excess Skin Removal

Once deeper structures are lifted, excess skin is carefully removed to prevent a heavy or sagging appearance. This step smooths wrinkles and improves facial definition while maintaining natural movement.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

Immediate Care

Mild swelling, bruising, and tightness are expected in the first one to two weeks. A bandage may be placed around the face to minimise swelling and bruising, and small drainage tubes may be inserted to remove excess fluid. Pain medication and cold compresses help manage discomfort while keeping the head elevated when resting reduces swelling.

Recovery Timeline

Light activities can usually be resumed after one week, though some swelling and tightness may persist. By two to three weeks, bruising fades, and early results become noticeable. Most swelling resolves by six weeks, with final results continuing to refine over the following months.

Aftercare Recommendations

Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least four weeks to allow proper healing. Following the recommended skincare routine aids healing, while protecting the skin from direct sun exposure helps prevent pigmentation and supports proper scar maturation.

Potential Risks and Complications

While a face lift is a commonly performed procedure, some risks are associated with surgery. Temporary swelling, bruising, and tightness are common and gradually improve over time. Mild scarring is usually discreet and fades with healing. Although rare, complications such as infection, nerve changes, or asymmetry may occur. Following post-surgical instructions carefully helps support a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do face lift results last?

Results typically last 10 years or more, depending on lifestyle factors, genetics, and skincare habits. While natural ageing continues, a face lift significantly delays visible signs of ageing.

Will my face look unnatural?

No, modern face lift techniques reposition tissues naturally, avoiding an overly tight or artificial appearance. The aim is to refresh the face while maintaining natural movement and expressions.

Is there an ideal age for a face lift?

There is no specific age requirement, as the procedure is based on individual ageing concerns rather than a set number of years. However, many people consider a face lift in their 40s to 60s when skin laxity becomes more noticeable.

How long do scars take to heal?

Incisions are placed in natural skin folds to minimise visibility. While initial healing takes a few weeks, scars continue to improve over several months and typically fade within a year. Daily sun protection and a healthy lifestyle help extend results, ensuring smoother healing and longer-lasting improvements.

Can I have a face lift if I have had previous facial surgery?

Yes, a face lift can still be performed after previous facial procedures. However, prior surgery and scar tissue may influence the surgical approach and expected results. A detailed assessment is needed to determine the best options.

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Dr Terence Goh

Choosing to combine the intricate skills of microsurgery with aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh specialises in gynaecomastia, surgery of the Asian face, particularly Asian eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.

Blending the precision of microsurgery with the artistry of aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh has a special interest in gynaecomastia, facial procedures, including ptosis and eyelid surgery, as well as rhinoplasty.

He also offers a full range of body contouring procedures such as mummy makeovers, breast augmentation, liposuction, and body sculpting—designed to help patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Beyond aesthetics, Dr Goh remains active in reconstructive microsurgery, with expertise in breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, and lower limb salvage—restoring both form and function where it’s needed most.

  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
  • Master of Medicine, National University of Singapore
  • Member of the Royal College of Surgeons
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
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