What is Facelift Surgery?
Facelift surgery Sydney, also known as rhytidectomy, is a highly effective cosmetic procedure designed to reverse visible signs of ageing and restore youthful facial contours. Over time, our skin loses elasticity, facial muscles weaken, and volume diminishes, leading to sagging skin and deep lines. Facelift surgery works by tightening the underlying tissues, smoothing the skin, and lifting sagging areas for a rejuvenated appearance that still looks natural.
Facelift Surgery Sydney with Australia Plastic Surgery
At Australia Plastic Surgery, every facelift surgery including mini facelift procedures, is performed by highly experienced, AHPRA-certified plastic surgeons. Under the leadership of Dr Laith Barnouti, our team focuses on precision, safety, and achieving balanced, natural results tailored to your unique facial anatomy.
Our surgeries are carried out in accredited Sydney surgical facilities with advanced safety protocols, ensuring every procedure meets the highest medical and ethical standards. Each treatment plan is personalised to deliver long-term aesthetic harmony, addressing not only visible signs of ageing but also enhancing your overall facial balance.
As an AHPRA-registered medical practice, Australia Plastic Surgery upholds strict ethical guidelines and patient safety standards. Whether you’re considering a full facelift or a mini facelift Sydney procedure, you’ll receive expert surgical care, modern technology, and compassionate support throughout your journey.
How Can A Facelift Surgery Improve My Appearance?
As we age, skin thins and loses collagen, muscles weaken, and fat volume decreases—leading to sagging and a tired look. A facelift directly targets these deeper layers, lifting and tightening facial tissues to restore smoother contours and definition that non-surgical treatments can’t fully achieve. The result is a refreshed, more youthful appearance that still looks naturally you.
When Do I Get My Mini Facelift?
For individuals showing early signs of ageing such as mild sagging or loss of jawline definition, a mini facelift Sydney offers subtle rejuvenation with less downtime.
It uses smaller incisions and limited tissue adjustment, allowing most patients to resume normal activities within a week.
Am I a Candidate for Facelift Surgery?
Facelift surgery is an ideal option for those whose facial concerns cannot be resolved through nonsurgical treatments.
You may be a good candidate for a facelift surgery Sydney if you experience:
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Loose, drooping skin around the cheeks and jawline
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Heavy jowls or deep nasolabial folds
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Loss of definition in the lower face and jawline
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A double chin or excess fat below the chin
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A desire for a more permanent solution than non-surgical treatments
Ideal candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations for the outcomes of the facelift surgery procedure. Facelift surgery is not only for older patients; lifestyle, genetics, and weight fluctuations can all impact skin elasticity, meaning some individuals in their 30s or 40s may seek surgical intervention earlier than expected.
During your consultation, your Australia Plastic Surgeon will assess your facial anatomy and discuss your goals to determine whether a full or mini facelift is right for you.
What Is The Best Age to Get A Facelift Surgery?
There is no fixed “magic age” for a facelift. The best time depends more on how your face is aging (skin laxity, jowls, neck changes) rather than just the number on your birthday. But most people find their ideal window between their mid-40s and mid-50s.
Younger patients in their late 30s or early 40s might benefit more from less invasive options or a mini facelift, while those in their 60s and beyond can still achieve great results if they’re in good health, though recovery may take longer.
Will My Facelift Surgery Be Performed Under Anaesthesia?
At Australia Plastic Surgery, your comfort and safety are our top priorities throughout your facelift surgery Sydney. Every facelift surgery is performed under the most suitable form of anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and your personal comfort level.
For most facelift surgery Sydney patients, general anaesthesia is used to ensure a completely pain-free and relaxed experience. Smaller or less invasive procedures—such as a mini facelift Sydney—can often be performed using local anaesthesia combined with light sedation. During your pre-surgery consultation, Dr. Laith Barnouti and his team will discuss which option is best suited to your individual needs and medical history.
How Should I Prepare Before My Facelift Surgery?
Preparing well helps you heal faster and achieve the best results from your facelift surgery Sydney. Here are a few things you should pay attention to before getting a facelift surgery:
- Stop taking blood thinners or supplements two weeks before surgery (with your doctor’s approval).
- Avoid smoking or alcohol for at least two weeks before and after your facelift surgery.
- Arrange a ride home and plan for a few days of rest post-surgery.
- Keep your skin clean and avoid harsh treatments before your procedure.
Following these simple steps ensures your facelift surgery Sydney goes smoothly and supports a quicker recovery.
Which Type of Facelift Surgery Is Suitable for Me?
Facelift surgery is highly customized to suit the needs and goals of each patient. Depending on your concerns, several techniques may be recommended:
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Standard Facelift: This traditional technique addresses moderate to advanced signs of ageing in the lower two-thirds of the face. The incisions are made discreetly around the temples and ears, providing lasting results with minimal visible scarring.
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Short-Scar Facelift: Also known as a mini facelift, this technique focuses on the lower third of the face, offering a less invasive approach with shorter incisions. Ideal for patients with mild sagging, this method is often performed with local anaesthesia and has a quicker recovery time.
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SMAS Facelift: Targeting deeper layers of tissue, the SMAS facelift lifts the skin and the underlying muscle layer for a more substantial, natural-looking lift. This technique of facelift provides long-lasting results without the “windswept” appearance associated with older facelifts.
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MACS Facelift: A minimally invasive technique, the MACS facelift is ideal for patients with good skin elasticity and minor sagging. This facelift procedure involves smaller incisions and repositioning tissues with the help of threads, offering a quicker recovery time and excellent results for younger patients.
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Deep Plane Facelift: Focusing on the deeper facial structures, the deep plane facelift provides a more durable and natural-looking result by lifting the skin, SMAS layer, and facial fat pads as one unit. This approach is ideal for patients seeking significant restoration of facial volume and contour.
Can I Combine Facelift Surgery with Other Treatments?
For enhanced facial balance, facelift surgery can be safely combined with other complementary procedures, such as:
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Neck Lift – Tightens and smooths the neck area to match the rejuvenated appearance of the face.
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Brow Lift – Elevates drooping brows and reduces forehead lines for a refreshed, open-eyed look.
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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) – Corrects sagging or puffy eyelids to make the eyes appear brighter and more youthful.
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Neck Liposuction or Double Chin Reduction – Removes excess fat under the chin for sharper definition.
These combination options allow for comprehensive facial rejuvenation, ensuring the face, eyes, and neck maintain harmony and natural proportion after facelift surgery.
For patients deciding between facelift and neck lift, visit our detailed blog guide here.
What Are The Risks Associated With This Procedure?
Plastic surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries inherent risks and potential complications.
Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.
For additional information, please refer to our FAQ page.







