Face Lift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)

A facelift, clinically known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that addresses changes in the lower two-thirds of the face associated with ageing. The procedure removes excess facial skin, repositions underlying tissues, and tightens the deeper structures of the face to address concerns such as cheek descent, jowling, and skin laxity around the jawline and neck.

A facelift is generally considered by patients who experience changes in facial appearance associated with the natural ageing process and who have not found non-surgical options sufficient for their goals. The surgery is not designed to change a patient’s underlying facial structure or stop the ageing process. The results, recovery, and risks of the procedure should be discussed thoroughly during a consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.

Dr Terrence Scamp is a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Bundall on the Gold Coast, with over 30 years of experience in plastic surgery. The practice sees patients from across South East Queensland, including those travelling from Brisbane. A consultation is the appropriate first step for anyone considering a face lift on the Gold Coast.

About Face Lift Surgery

The visible signs of facial ageing develop gradually over time as the skin loses elasticity, collagen production decreases, and underlying soft tissues shift downward. The result is often deepening folds around the mouth and nose, loss of definition along the jawline, jowling, and loose skin in the neck area. Facial ageing is a natural process and varies significantly between individuals, influenced by genetics, sun exposure, lifestyle factors, and overall skin condition.

While non-surgical options such as skincare, sun protection, and minimally invasive treatments can support skin health and address early signs of ageing, surgical intervention is the option some patients consider when these changes become more pronounced. A facelift addresses these structural changes by repositioning the underlying facial tissues and removing excess skin.

A facelift is often performed alongside other facial procedures, depending on the surgical plan. Patients seeking to address the upper face may also consider an endoscopic brow lift or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), which can be performed during the same procedure where indicated.

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Face Lift Techniques

There are several surgical approaches used in face lift surgery, and the most appropriate technique for any individual patient is determined during the consultation, based on facial anatomy, skin condition, and the patient’s surgical goals.

Traditional face lift: The traditional approach involves an incision that begins at the temple, follows the hairline, runs in front of the ear, and continues behind the ear into the lower scalp. Facial skin is then lifted from the underlying tissues, the deeper structures are repositioned, excess skin is removed, and the incisions are closed.

Deep plane face lift: The deep plane technique addresses the deeper layers of facial tissue, including the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) and the underlying ligaments. This approach is generally considered for patients with more significant facial laxity in the mid-face and lower face.

Mid-face lift: A mid-face lift specifically addresses laxity in the cheek area. The technique involves smaller incisions, typically placed inside the lower eyelid or within a natural crease in the cheek, to access and reposition the central cheek tissues. This approach may be suitable for patients whose concerns are focused on the mid-face rather than the lower face or neck.

The technique used in any individual case is selected based on the patient’s anatomy and the surgical goals discussed at consultation.

A Face Lift Consultation

Before any face lift surgery, patients will attend a consultation with Dr Terrence Scamp. The consultation is an opportunity to discuss the changes in facial appearance the patient is hoping to address, the outcomes they are looking to achieve, and any aspects of medical history that may be relevant to suitability.

During the consultation, Dr Scamp will examine the face, assess skin elasticity, underlying tissue, and overall facial structure, and determine the most appropriate surgical technique. The plan may include a face lift alone or in combination with other facial procedures such as a neck lift, brow lift, or eyelid surgery, depending on the patient’s goals.

The risks and recovery associated with face lift surgery will be explained in full during the consultation so patients can make an informed decision before proceeding. The consultation is also the appropriate time to ask any questions about the procedure, the surgical plan, recovery, or expected outcomes.

Face Lift Cost on the Gold Coast

The cost of face lift surgery on the Gold Coast varies considerably between patients, as each surgical plan is tailored to the individual. An accurate cost estimate can only be provided after a consultation, where the surgical plan is agreed.

Several factors affect the overall cost, including:

The face lift technique used (traditional, deep plane, mid-face lift)
The complexity and duration of the procedure
Whether the procedure is being combined with other facial procedures
The surgeon’s fee
The anaesthetist fee
Hospital and theatre charges
Post-operative care requirements

In most cases, face lift surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons and does not meet the clinical criteria for Medicare rebates or private health insurance cover. Eligibility for any rebates will be reviewed during the consultation. Further details about the cost of the procedure will be provided once the surgical plan is agreed.

The Face Lift Surgery Procedure

Face lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in a hospital setting. The duration of the procedure depends on the technique used, the extent of the surgery, and whether it is being performed in combination with other facial procedures. A face lift typically takes between three and six hours to complete.

Before surgery begins, Dr Terrence Scamp marks the face to indicate where the incisions will be made. The location of the incisions depends on the technique selected. The most common approach uses an incision that follows the natural contour of the face, beginning at the temple, following the hairline, running in front of the ear, and continuing behind the ear. Placing the incisions along these natural contours helps to position the resulting scars where they are less visible once healed.

During the procedure, the facial skin is lifted from the underlying tissues, the deeper structures of the face are repositioned, excess skin is trimmed, and the incisions are closed with sutures. The face may be wrapped in bandages following the procedure, and small drains may be placed behind the ears to manage fluid build-up during the early healing period.

Face Lift Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after a facelift surgery varies between patients, depending on the technique used and individual healing. Swelling, bruising, numbness, and a sensation of tightness in the face are all normal in the early healing period.

Recovery generally follows this timeline:

First week: Rest at home, with the head elevated when sleeping to help reduce swelling. Bandages and drains, if used, are typically removed within the first week. Sutures are removed around seven to ten days post-surgery.
Two weeks: Most patients are able to return to desk-based work and light social activity, though bruising and swelling continue to settle during this period. Makeup may be used to conceal residual bruising once the incisions have closed.
Two to six weeks: Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and exercise remain restricted. Bruising and swelling continue to resolve.
Six weeks onwards: Gradual return to exercise and full activity, as confirmed at follow-up appointments.
Up to six months: The face continues to settle into its final appearance as residual swelling fully resolves and the deeper tissues complete their healing.

Patients are typically advised to avoid sun exposure, smoking, and alcohol during the early recovery period, all of which can interfere with healing. Specific aftercare instructions will be provided by Dr Scamp following the procedure.

As with all surgery, face lift surgery carries risks, including but not limited to bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, changes in skin sensation, and reaction to anaesthesia. These are discussed in full at the consultation, so patients can make an informed decision before proceeding. For more information, please visit the surgery risks and complications page.

Book a Face Lift Consultation on the Gold Coast

To enquire about a face lift consultation with Dr Terrence Scamp at his Bundall practice on the Gold Coast, contact the rooms on (07) 5539 1000 or visit the booking information page.

Face Lift Gold Coast (Rhytidectomy)