Facelift (Rhytidectomy) at Guildford Hospital

What is a facelift?

As we age, the face naturally changes due to a combination of genetics, lifestyle factors, sun exposure and the gradual decline of collagen and elastin. Skin becomes less firm, facial fat shifts, and deeper tissues lose support. These changes can lead to volume loss in the cheeks, deepening lines around the mouth and nose, sagging along the jawline, jowl formation (loose skin and fat under the jawline and chin) and loss of firmness and elasticity in the neck.

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that can address many of these concerns as it’s designed to lift and tighten the skin and the deeper soft tissues of the face and neck. By working on underlying facial structures and removing excess skin, it helps restore a smoother, firmer and more youthful appearance, all while giving you a confidence boost and still looking like you.

What are the different types of facelift surgery?

A facelift is usually performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes 2–3 hours, depending on the technique. Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable approach based on your goals, anatomy and the depth of your visible signs of ageing.

Mini facelift

A mini facelift is a shorter, less invasive procedure that focuses on the lower face and jawline.

What happens during a mini facelift?

• It’s performed under a general anaesthetic.
• Takes 1–2 hours.
• Small incisions are made in front of or behind the ears, and sometimes along the hairline.
• Skin is tightened and repositioned.
• Fine stitches are used to close the incisions.

Ideal for: mild to moderate sagging, early signs of ageing, or patients seeking a shorter recovery.

Endoscopic facelift

An endoscopic facelift uses a tiny camera and specialised instruments inserted through small incisions in the hairline. This technique is often used for brow or mid-face lifting and results in minimal scarring.

Mid-facelift

A mid-facelift targets the area below the lower eyelids and over the cheekbones.

During the procedure:

• Small incisions are made along the hairline and either inside the mouth or in the lower eyelid.
• The surgeon lifts and repositions the cheeks using specialised instruments and stitching.

This technique is ideal for restoring youthful cheek volume and reducing deep smile lines or laugh lines.

MACS facelift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension)

The MACS facelift uses a smaller incision and avoids cutting underneath the SMAS layer. Instead, the surgeon uses suspension stitches to lift the tissues.

Benefits:

• Less invasive.
• Shorter recovery.
• No scarring behind the ear.

Consideration: Results may not last as long as a traditional SMAS facelift.

SMAS facelift

The SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) facelift is one of the most commonly performed techniques.

During the procedure:

• Incisions are made around the ears and into the hairline.
• The surgeon lifts and tightens the deeper SMAS layer.
• Excess skin is removed and repositioned.

This approach provides a complete, long-lasting revival of the lower face and neck.

Deep plane facelift

A deep plane facelift lifts the deeper facial layers (SMAS and fat pads) rather than just tightening the skin. This technique can provide natural-looking, long-lasting results, especially for sagging cheeks and deep lines.

Why choose Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital for my facelift surgery?

Our experienced cosmetic surgeons at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital specialise in a wide range of cosmetic procedures, including facelift surgery, and take a personalised approach to every patient. We understand that choosing cosmetic surgery is a significant decision, which is why we take the time to listen to your concerns, discuss your goals and help you feel fully informed throughout your treatment journey.

Located within Surrey Research Park, Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital has been providing private healthcare to patients across Surrey and Hampshire since 1999. Following an £8 million refurbishment and expansion, patients benefit from modern private facilities, en-suite rooms and consultant-led care, all supported by our dedicated matron-led nursing team.

How to book a consultation at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital?

If you're thinking about facelift surgery, taking the first step is easy. At Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital, you can book an appointment online, call our team directly on 01483 314 011 or complete our online enquiry form. Our experienced team will help you arrange a consultation with a specialist consultant, allowing you to discuss your goals, ask questions and explore your options in a private and supportive environment.

Non-surgical alternatives to facelift surgery

Surgery is a big step, and you may not feel ready. That’s not a problem. Here are several non-surgical treatments that you may want to consider to help improve early signs of ageing:

• Dermal fillers restore lost volume.
• Botox® softens lines and wrinkles.
• Thread lifts provide a subtle lift using dissolvable sutures.
• Ultrasound therapy (e.g., Ultherapy®) stimulates collagen production.
• Radiofrequency therapy tightens mild skin sagging.

These treatments offer temporary improvement but cannot achieve the same results as surgery.

Facelift vs neck lift – what’s the difference?

A facelift focuses on the mid and lower face, while a neck lift targets:

• Loose neck skin
• Visible neck banding
• Excess fat under the chin
• Loss of jawline definition

Many patients choose to combine both procedures for a more balanced, natural-looking result.

How to prepare for a facelift

Your surgeon will give personalised advice, but preparation may include:

• Stopping smoking several weeks before surgery.
• Avoiding certain medications (e.g., blood thinners).
• Arranging time off work and support at home.
• Preparing comfortable clothing that fastens at the front.
• Planning your transport home.

What happens during a facelift?

• The operation usually takes 2–3 hours.
• You will be under general anaesthetic.
• Incisions are made around the ears and hairline (varies by technique).
• The deeper tissues are lifted and tightened.
• Excess skin is removed.
• Fine stitches are used to close the incisions.

How long does it take to recover?

Recovery varies, but most patients follow a similar timeline.

Risks and complications of a facelift

All surgery carries some risks. Specific facelift risks include:

• Loss of skin or hair.
• Blood collection under the skin (haematoma).
• Pale or dark patches on the skin.
• Facial nerve injury (usually temporary).
• Cosmetic concerns such as asymmetry or scarring.

Your surgeon will discuss these with you in detail.

How much does facelift surgery cost at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital?

For pricing and cost information of facelift surgery, please speak to our team directly on 01483 314 011. You will be given a fixed all-inclusive price for treatment following your initial consultation with a consultant.

Making the right decision

Choosing to have a facelift is a personal decision. At Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital, we will never pressure you to make a decision. To give yourself time to decide what’s right for you, we recommend you leave at least 2 weeks between your consultation and booking your surgery.