Facelift Surgery in Gangnam Seoul, Korea

What is facelift (SMAS) surgery?

SMAS stands for the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System which is the layer of tissue or membrane that connects your face and neck muscles to your skin. It includes muscles, fibers,collagen, and fat. As you age, your skin and the SMAS lose its elasticity.These changes result in sagging cheeks along the jawbone, excess skin, and often a “double chin”. Cheek fat will also sag forward, increasing nasolabial folds or creases on the sides of the nose extending to the mouth (also causing smile or laugh lines). A SMAS facelift counteracts visible signs of aging by tightening the muscle, removing fat, and trimming excess skin on the lower two-thirds of the face. Most people continue to look 10 to 15 years younger, but over time the results of aging gradually reappear about 10 to 15 years after the procedure.

What are the benefits of facelift surgery?

A facelift provides comprehensive facial rejuvenation results and can address the following signs of aging:

  • Reduces Sagging Skin: Facelift surgery tightens and lifts loose, sagging skin, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance.
  • Improves Facial Contours: It enhances the definition of the jawline, cheeks, and neckline, restoring a more youthful facial contour.
  • Restores Volume and Tightness: By repositioning the underlying muscles and tissues, a facelift can restore volume, reducing deep lines and wrinkles.
  • Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, facelift results can last for many years, providing a rejuvenated appearance and boosting self-confidence.
  • Reduces Nasolabial Folds: Facelifts help minimize deep lines around the nose and mouth, often referred to as smile lines or laugh lines.
  • Tightens the Neck Area: It can address loose skin and fatty deposits in the neck, often referred to as a “turkey neck,” giving a more youthful and defined neckline.
  • Improves Skin Texture: The lifting effect of the surgery can improve skin tone and texture, making it look smoother and more even.
  • Enhances Self-Confidence: By restoring a youthful appearance and addressing signs of aging, a facelift can greatly enhance self-esteem and confidence in one’s looks.

Who are ideal candidates for surgical face lift?

Ideal candidates for a surgical facelift typically include individuals who:

  • Are in good overall health: Candidates should be healthy enough to undergo surgery and recover effectively, without serious medical conditions that could impact healing.
  • Have moderate to significant facial aging signs: Those with sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of facial volume, particularly around the jawline, cheeks, and neck, often benefit the most.
  • Have realistic expectations: Candidates should understand what a facelift can achieve and have realistic expectations about the results.
  • Are non-smokers: Smoking can interfere with healing, so non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after surgery are preferred.
  • Are between the ages of 40 and 70: While older patients can also benefit from facelifts, those in this age range tend to have the best skin elasticity for optimal results.
  • Desire a long-lasting improvement: Candidates should be looking for a rejuvenated appearance that lasts for many years, as facelift results are typically long-lasting.
  • Want a natural, refreshed look: Ideal candidates seek a rejuvenation that enhances their appearance without appearing overly altered or unnatural.

What is the overall facelift surgery procedure like?

  • Consultation & Planning (1-2 hours): The surgeon assesses your facial features, discusses goals, and plans the procedure. This step can take up to an hour or two, depending on the complexity of the consultation.

  • Anesthesia (30-60 minutes): General anesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure you are completely comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. The anesthesia process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

  • Surgical Procedure (2-5 hours): The actual facelift surgery usually takes between 2 to 5 hours, depending on the technique and extent of the procedure. Incisions are made, and the skin and underlying tissues are lifted and tightened.

  • Recovery & Aftercare (1-2 weeks for initial recovery, several months for full recovery): The initial recovery involves swelling, bruising, and wearing dressings for about 1 to 2 weeks. Full recovery, where you can see the final results and resume normal activities, typically takes several months.

Facelift Before & After Photos

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How much does facelift surgery cost in Korea?

Facelift surgery in South Korea typically costs between ₩5,000,000 and ₩12,000,000 (approximately $4,000 to $10,000), with the price varying depending on the clinic, surgeon’s experience, and the complexity of the procedure. The cost can differ based on factors such as the type of facelift, with a full facelift generally being more expensive than a mini-lift or specific treatments like a neck lift. Clinics with a strong reputation and experienced surgeons may charge higher fees, and the price may also increase if the facelift is combined with other procedures like eyelid surgery or fat grafting. For a more accurate estimate, it’s recommended to consult directly with the clinic.

Contact Us!

Please contact Wooa Plastic Surgery & Dermatology or call +82-10-5537-1167 today to schedule your facelift consultation. We serve local & international patients from all over the world.