Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

The Deep Plane Facelift

The most advanced and long-lasting technique. Dr. Gandhi releases the deep retaining ligaments of the face, allowing the entire cheek pad and jowl to be moved as one solid unit. This provides the most profound improvement to the midface and nasolabial folds with the most natural result.

The SMAS Plication / Imbrication

A highly effective technique where the deep muscle layer (SMAS) is folded over and sutured securely, or a section is removed and pulled tight. Excellent for addressing the lower jawline and neck.

The Mini-Lift (MACS Lift)

Designed for younger patients (typically 40s) showing early signs of jowling but maintaining a tight neck. It utilizes shorter incisions and focuses strictly on lifting the lower third of the face with a rapid 7-day recovery.

Where are the incisions placed?

Incisions are an art form. Dr. Gandhi meticulously hides the incisions inside the hairline at the temple, tracing exactly inside the curves of the ear (retrotragal), and finishing behind the earlobe. Once fully healed, they are virtually undetectable, even if you wear your hair up.

Does a facelift include the neck?

Yes. For Dr. Gandhi, the face and neck are a single aesthetic unit. A comprehensive lower facelift inherently includes a Neck Lift (platysmaplasty), tightening the neck muscles and removing the 'turkey wattle' to ensure a perfectly seamless jawline transition.

How many years younger will I look?

While individual results vary based on genetics and skin quality, a deep-plane structural facelift typically 'resets the clock' by 10 to 15 years. You will continue to age naturally from that new, rejuvenated baseline.

Phase 1: Deep Skincare Prep

We highly recommend starting a medical-grade skincare regimen (including Retinols and Vitamin C) a month prior to surgery. Healthy, highly-perfused skin heals faster, holds sutures better, and optimizes the final glow of your result.

Phase 2: Strict Blood Pressure Control

Elevated blood pressure is the primary cause of post-operative hematomas (bleeding). You must have your blood pressure strictly controlled. Cease all heavy cardiovascular exercise, alcohol, and stress-inducing activities a week prior to surgery.

Phase 3: The Caregiver Requirement

You will be wrapped in a supportive head dressing upon waking. You absolutely must have a dedicated caregiver to drive you home, assist with meals, and ensure you remain completely relaxed for the first 48 hours.

Days 1 to 3

The most critical rest period. Your face will be wrapped to minimize swelling. You must sleep elevated on your back and adhere to a soft-food diet to minimize chewing, which pulls on the healing internal muscle sutures.

Days 4 to 10

Dressings are removed. You will experience a sensation of extreme tightness under the chin and around the ears; this means the deep structural support is holding perfectly. Sutures are painlessly removed around day 7. Bruising may peak and then rapidly fade.

Weeks 2 to 3 (Social Return)

At 14 to 21 days, the vast majority of swelling has dissipated. Most patients confidently return to public-facing roles and social events with a little strategically placed makeup. The face will continue to soften and settle beautifully over the next 3 months.