Facelift

A facelift, medically known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to improve visible changes in the lower face and, when appropriate, the neck. It can reposition and support the underlying facial tissues to treat skin laxity, jowling, deeper folds and loss of definition along the jawline.

It is not a procedure that creates a different face or takes away all signs of aging. Its goal is to regain clearer contours while preserving natural expression and individual facial characteristics.

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How Ageing Alters the Framework Beneath the Skin

Aging of the face is not just changes on the skin surface. Over time, deeper tissues can sag, facial support can weaken and volume can shift. These changes can soften the jawline, deepen folds around the mouth and reduce the distinction between the face and neck.

Genetics, sun exposure, weight changes and facial structure, and the quality of your skin, all affect how ageing looks. Dr. Mishal Al Shammari assesses the face as a single, connected anatomy rather than looking at each line in isolation.

Changes That May Lead to a Facelift Consultation

Facelift surgery may be considered when tissue descent and skin laxity impact the balance of the lower face. Some common problems are discussed:

Reduced definition along the jaw line
Jowls altering the contour of the lower face
Deeper creases between mouth and nose
Loose skin in the cheeks or lower face

Fullness radiating into the neck
Facial asymmetry becomes more evident with ageing
A tired or aged appearance not corresponding to how the patient feels

The degree of correction is different in each patient. Some need a focused improvement of the lower face, while others may benefit from a more extensive approach such as that which includes the neck or additional procedures.

Planning takes into account factors such as skin elasticity, facial width, bone structure, tissue position, neck contour, hairline and natural asymmetry. Previous facial surgery, medical history and the patient's priorities also influence the surgical strategy.

During the consultation in Riyadh, Dr. Mishal Al Shammari determines which tissue layers need support and how much correction can be achieved without too much tension being placed on them. The idea is to bring back proportion, not to impose a single standard lift.

A modern facelift is usually about the supportive layers beneath the skin. These tissues can be lifted and repositioned to improve support of the cheeks, to decrease jowling and to redefine the angle of the face to the neck.

Once the deeper structures are addressed, the skin is redraped and excess is removed conservatively. This avoids dependence on skin tension alone, allowing for a smoother result while preserving expression.

Facelift incisions are usually placed around the ear, sometimes into the hairline, depending on what areas are being treated. Whenever possible, placement is planned along natural creases and hair-bearing margins.

Scars are to be expected and may look pink or firm initially, before gradually changing colour and texture. Final outcome is variable depending on skin type, healing response, incision care and individual biology.

Recovery While Facial Contours Begin to Settle

In the early stages of recovery you may notice swelling, bruising, tightness, temporary numbness and changes in sensation. Dressings may be applied and, in some cases, temporary drains. In general, patients are instructed to keep the head elevated and not to put pressure on treated areas.

In the early stages, vigorous exercise and activities that cause swelling are limited. Follow-up visits allow Dr. Mishal Al Shammari to check incisions, swelling, facial symmetry and healing as normal activities are slowly resumed.

Refinement That Respects Expression and Identity

Facelift surgery aims to improve facial definition and restore a more supported relationship of the cheeks, jawline and neck. Results should be assessed by overall harmony and natural movement rather than removing every line.

The face will continue to age after surgery and the longevity of results varies with skin quality, lifestyle, weight stability and individual ageing patterns. Careful planning, realistic expectations and appropriate aftercare help support a refreshed appearance that still remains recognizably the patient's own.

What our clients say

Read about the experiences of patients who received plastic and aesthetic treatments from Dr Mishal Al Shammari.

Honestly, I didn't follow my own advice and looked around. I saw my friend's amazing results with him, so I immediately went to him for a consultation. My arms were bothering me, and he did it for me. The result was perfect.