Dr. Dirk Lazarus
Plastic Surgeon

Tel: 021 424 1112
Fax: 021 424 1118

86 New Church St
Tamboerskloof
Cape Town, 8001
South Africa

As the face ages, so the tissues droop. Cheek wrinkles, jowls, a sloppy jaw line and a sagging neck may develop. Although a facelift can correct these problems, other changes may be seen with ageing. These may include loss of skin elasticity, deterioration of skin texture, the development of wrinkles, loss of volume of tissue (which gives a gaunt appearance) and a change in expression (angry, grumpy, tired).

I usually use the mini (or short scar) facelift as the basis or foundation for facial rejuvenation. In some patients this is enough. Other patients may require or desire greater correction of facial ageing and in these patients other small procedures such as fat transfers, skin resurfacing, or botox injections may make a significant difference. Many patients also opt for eyelid rejuvenation, brow surgery, neck enhancement, lip improvement, etc. for a more harmonious outcome. No one operation suits all patients. Photographs and a face to face examination allow me to assess your facial features and to give advice as to what I think would be the best for you. Men may benefit more from an alternative procedure: an anterior cervicoplasty.

I perform almost all my facelifts as day case surgery under light general anaesthesia or conscious sedation and local anaesthesia. This allows a quick recovery and rapid return to normal. Although the incision is modified for each individual case, I usually perform a mini (short scar) facelift. The incision runs beneath the sideburn, down in the natural skin creases and curves in front of the ear, around the lobe and up for a variable distance behind the ear. To enhance the result and the longevity of the procedure, I perform a SMAS plication (lifting the deep layer, the SMAS, below the skin). I routinely liposuck the neck as this not only removes excess fat, but also causes skin tightening. Dissolving sutures are used to close and a light dressing and facial garment is applied.

Post-operative recovery takes about 2 weeks, during which time swelling and bruising will settle. Complications which can occur include bleeding, infection, delayed healing and nerve damage. Overseas patients can return home approximately 2 weeks following surgery.

Although a facelift can set back the clock about 10 years, it does not stop the clock and the effects of ageing continue. Nevertheless, it can restore former beauty and enhance self esteem by making you look years younger.

Testimonials from patients who had facial rejuvenation surgery.
For a more detailed description of this procedure, please click here.
Instructions for patients undergoing facial rejuvenation surgery.
Newsletter on quick fixes for wrinkles and lines: botox and fillers.
Newsletter on the 4 R's of facial rejuvenation