What is a face lift?
A face lift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that repositions the sagging soft tissues of the face and neck to restore a more youthful, rested appearance. As we age, the deeper layers of the face — including the fat compartments and the SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) — descend, causing jowling along the jaw, deep nasolabial folds, and laxity of the neck. A face lift addresses these structural changes at their root, producing results that look natural because they restore the original anatomy rather than simply stretching the skin.
Dr. Galati tailors the face lift procedure to each patient's anatomy, degree of ageing, and aesthetic goals. Whether you need a comprehensive full face and neck lift or a more limited mini lift for early laxity, the plan is always designed to achieve a refreshed appearance — one that looks like a younger version of yourself, not a different person.
What can a face lift correct?
- Jowling: descent of cheek fat producing fullness along the jaw line and blurring of its definition
- Nasolabial folds: deep lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Marionette lines: lines extending from the mouth corners downward
- Neck laxity: loose skin, banding, and fatty deposits under the chin ("turkey neck")
- Mid-face ptosis: descent of the cheek volume creating a hollowed, aged mid-face
- Loss of jaw definition: restoration of a clean, sculpted jaw line
Full face lift vs. mini face lift
Dr. Galati is skilled in both approaches and selects the right technique based on thorough pre-operative assessment:
- Full SMAS face lift: addresses the full face and neck through incisions placed in the hairline, around the ear and along the ear lobe, then concealed in natural creases. The deep SMAS layer is lifted and repositioned, delivering comprehensive and long-lasting (8–12 year) results. Ideal for patients in their 50s–70s with moderate to significant facial laxity.
- Mini face lift: shorter incisions around the ear correct mild to moderate jowling and early neck laxity. Recovery is faster. Best suited to patients in their 40s–50s with limited early changes. Results typically last 5–7 years.
The surgical procedure
A full face lift is performed under general anaesthesia (or deep sedation) and takes approximately 2–4 hours. Most patients stay one night in the clinic. Incisions are carefully placed within the natural hairline and around the ear so scars are hidden even when the hair is up. Surgical drains may be placed to reduce fluid accumulation and are removed within 24–48 hours. The deep tissues are repositioned using internal sutures, and any excess skin is conservatively trimmed — never pulled under tension — before closure.
Recovery timeline
- Days 1–2: drain removal; compression bandage applied; rest essential
- Days 5–7: compression bandage replaced with a lighter garment; significant swelling and bruising normal
- Day 10–14: sutures removed; bruising fading; patients begin to feel presentable
- Weeks 3–4: majority of swelling resolved; patients can typically return to work and social activities
- Month 3: scars maturing; result clearly visible and very pleasing
- Month 6: final, fully settled result
Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks. Sun protection of the scars is important for 6–12 months. Results are prolonged by a healthy lifestyle, sun avoidance and a good skincare routine.
Face lift in Italy — why choose Dr. Galati?
Italy's tradition of refined aesthetic surgery is particularly evident in facial rejuvenation, where the balance between correction and natural appearance is paramount. Dr. Galati has more than 20 years of experience in facial plastic surgery and a deep commitment to individualised, patient-centred care. His clinics in Lecce, Parma and Milan are equipped with the latest technology and staffed by a team dedicated to your comfort and safety at every stage of the process.
International patients are invited to contact our team at info@clinicachirurgiaplastica.it to plan a full care pathway, from virtual or in-person consultation through to post-operative follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
A well-performed SMAS face lift typically produces results lasting 8–12 years, depending on skin quality and lifestyle factors. A mini lift lasts approximately 5–7 years. The ageing process continues, but you will always look younger than if you had not had surgery.
Drains are removed within 24–48 hours. Sutures come out at 10–14 days. Significant bruising resolves within 2–3 weeks. Most patients return to social and professional life after 3–4 weeks. The final, fully settled result appears at around 6 months.
Modern SMAS techniques reposition the deep facial tissues — not just the skin — which prevents the "windswept" or overly tight appearance. The result looks like a naturally younger version of you, with preserved facial character and expression.
Yes. A face lift is frequently combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid correction), brow lift, fat grafting to the mid-face, or neck liposuction for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dr. Galati will discuss the best combination for your goals during the consultation.