Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt like your reflection doesn’t match how young and vibrant you feel inside? If so, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly where facial rhytidoplasty, more commonly known as a face-lift, comes into play. Over the years, many of my patients have shared that same feeling: they’re active, full of life, but their faces tell a different story. Facial aging is natural, but for those who want to restore a firmer, fresher look, this procedure can be a powerful solution.
As a plastic surgeon, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative a face lift can be—not just physically, but emotionally. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about facial rhytidoplasty: from the signs that tell you it might be time to how the surgery works, what recovery looks like, and how to get the best results. Whether you’re just starting to consider it or you’ve been thinking about it for years, let’s dive into what this procedure really involves and how it could help you look as young as you feel.
Recognizing the signs of facial aging addressed by a face lift
One of the first questions I usually get during a consultation is, “How do I know if a face lift is right for me?” And the truth is, it’s not just about wrinkles. Facial aging runs much deeper—literally.
Over time, factors like sun exposure, smoking, and even gravity start to change our facial structure. We lose volume in key areas, the skin loses elasticity, and the muscles underneath begin to weaken. Add in natural bone resorption around the cheeks and jawline, and what once looked youthful and lifted can slowly appear tired, loose, or heavy.
Here are some of the most common signs of aging that can be beautifully improved through facial rhytidoplasty:
Deep creases between the nose and mouth (nasolabial folds)
These are the lines that run from the sides of your nose down to the corners of your mouth. Over time, they can become deeper due to repeated facial expressions, loss of volume in the cheeks, and skin laxity, giving the face a more aged or fatigued appearance.
A slack or sagging jawline—sometimes referred to as “jowls”
Jowls appear when the skin and tissues along the jawline start to droop. This can blur the once-sharp contour of the lower face, making the face look heavier or less defined.
Folds and excess fat under the chin and around the neck
Skin laxity and fat accumulation over time, often mistaken for weight gain, actually cause this fullness. It’s one of the most common complaints I hear and a key area a face lift can address.
Drooping or low-positioned eyebrows
When the eyebrows start to fall lower than their natural position, it can make you look permanently tired, sad, or even angry. This is usually due to weakening of the forehead muscles and loss of skin elasticity.
Loose or folded skin on the eyelids
Excess skin on the upper eyelids can create folds that may hang over the lash line, while the lower lids can show puffiness or creasing. This gives the eyes a heavy, aged look—even if you’re well-rested.
Smile lines that grow deeper with time
These are the lines that form around the mouth as a result of smiling and facial movement. As the skin thins and loses support, these lines become more permanent and pronounced.
Downturned corners of the mouth that give a sad or worn-out expression
This happens when the skin around the mouth begins to sag, pulling the corners of the lips downward. Even when you’re not sad, your face may unintentionally suggest that emotion.
Fine wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, and lips
Often called “expression lines” or “crow’s feet,” these appear in areas that move the most. They start out fine, but with time and sun exposure, they deepen and contribute to an aged look.
The dreaded “turkey neck” look—loose skin and muscle banding under the chin
This term describes the droopy, wrinkled skin that hangs under the chin and along the neck, often combined with visible muscle bands. It’s one of the most dramatic signs of aging—and also one of the most satisfying to correct surgically.
If you’ve noticed a few (or more) of these changes in the mirror, you’re not imagining things—they’re all part of the normal aging process. But that doesn’t mean you have to accept them as permanent.
A facelift—specifically, rhytidoplasty—targets these exact areas. By tightening the underlying structures, removing excess skin, and repositioning key facial tissues, we can restore a more natural, refreshed look that still feels like you—just more vibrant.
Determining if you are a suitable candidate for facial rhytidoplasty
Are you considering a facelift but unsure if it’s the right choice for you? You’re not alone. Many patients come to me wondering if they’re “too young,” “too old,” or simply not the right type for facial rhytidoplasty. The truth is, candidacy isn’t just about age—it’s about health, anatomy, goals, and mindset. Let’s break down what really makes someone a good candidate for this procedure.
Is a surgical face lift right for you? Key considerations
Good overall health comes first
Before anything else, your general health plays a big role. Since facial rhytidoplasty is a surgical procedure, you need to be physically well enough to undergo anesthesia and recovery. That means no major uncontrolled conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension. If you smoke, we’ll need to talk about pausing—because smoking affects healing and increases risks.
What’s the typical age range?
Most of my patients fall between the ages of 40 and 60, when the first signs of deeper aging start becoming more visible. However, age is not a determining factor. I’ve performed successful face lifts for patients in their 70s who had good skin quality and realistic goals. It’s more about skin condition than the number on your ID.
Skin elasticity & bone structure matter
If your skin elasticity is decent and your facial bone structure is strong, you already have an advantage. Why? The best results occur when we have a solid foundation beneath the skin. Once we lift and reposition the tissues, a good facial "architecture" yields better contours.
Expectations & mindset
Let’s be real—a face lift won’t make you look 20 again. But it can make you look more refreshed, rested, and naturally younger. I always encourage patients to think in terms of refinement, not reinvention. If your expectations are grounded, you’re much more likely to love your results.
The Importance of a personalized consultation
This is where everything comes together. During your in-depth consultation, we’ll talk through:
- Your medical history and any past surgeries.
- Medications and lifestyle factors that could affect healing.
- Your specific facial concerns and desired results.
- Whether additional or alternative procedures might serve you better.
Making sure the treatment fits you, not the other way around, is crucial.
Looking into body procedures? Read Dr. Delgado’s take: Lipo in Colombia, Lipo 360. The best choice for transforming your body
Understanding the facial rhytidoplasty procedure: What to expect
The anatomical foundations of facial rhytidoplasty
Facial rhytidoplasty is more than a skin-tightening procedure—it is a structural correction of facial aging. The surgical approach targets both superficial and deep layers, especially the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), which provides critical support to facial contours.
Mitz and Peyronie extensively described the SMAS, which has now become the benchmark for modern lifting techniques. Manipulating this layer offers more natural and long-lasting results compared to older methods that relied solely on skin traction (Montedonio et al., 2010).
Strategic incisions in facial rhytidoplasty
We carefully place incisions to grant surgical access while preserving aesthetic harmony. Common incision sites include:
- Anterior to the temporal hairline (upper face access).
- Preauricular and retroauricular areas (mid/lower face lifting).
- Submental region (especially useful in neck lifts).
When necessary, the incision may extend toward the occipital scalp or posterior cervical hairline to manage significant skin excess in the neck.
SMAS management and tissue repositioning
After undermining the skin during facial rhytidoplasty, the focus shifts to the SMAS layer. Depending on patient anatomy and surgical goals, the SMAS may be elevated, plicated, or imbricated. For advanced signs of aging, extended SMAS dissection is used to lift deeper structures like the malar fat pad and zygomatic ligaments. This makes the midface and nasolabial fold area look better (Montedonio et al., 2010).
The overlying skin is then redraped with minimal tension, which helps prevent distortion and ensures proper healing.
Incision closure and risk mitigation
Incisions are closed using fine sutures or surgical clips, with a focus on layered closure and minimal skin tension. This technique reduces the risk of hypertrophic or widened scars. Meticulous hemostasis is crucial, especially in hypertensive patients, as hematoma is the most common early complication in rhytidoplasty procedures (Montedonio et al., 2010).
Types of facial rhytidoplasty: Standard vs. mini
There are several variations of the procedure depending on the degree of correction needed:
Standard facial rhytidoplasty
Involves wider dissection and SMAS elevation, suitable for moderate to severe aging.
Mini rhytidoplasty
Limited dissection and shorter incisions, often using SMAS plication; ideal for early signs of laxity or as a secondary procedure.
The choice depends on individual facial anatomy, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals—all evaluated during the initial consultation.
Facial Rhytidoplasty Is Evolving: Less Invasive, More Natural
In recent years, there has been growing interest in minimally invasive approaches to Facial Rhytidoplasty. One of the most notable techniques is the “Rhythmic” face lift, developed by Dr. Castillo-Campos. This method uses minimal incisions, avoids skin excision in many cases, and still achieves full-face rejuvenation—making it an excellent option for patients who seek faster recovery with fewer visible scars.
This approach has been shown to provide long-lasting results with minimal complications, even in revision surgeries or patients with male pattern baldness, where incision placement is more challenging (Castillo-Campos, 2022). For suitable candidates, it offers the possibility of natural, subtle improvements without the stigma of an “operated” look.
Enhancing your facial rhytidoplasty results: Complementary procedures
While facial rhytidoplasty addresses structural aging in the lower and mid-face, optimal facial rejuvenation often requires a more comprehensive, multi-procedure approach. Combining targeted surgeries or minimally invasive treatments can enhance symmetry, refine details, and treat signs of aging that a face lift alone cannot address.
The goal is not overcorrection—but balance. Depending on each patient’s needs, we can perform these procedures either alongside or after rhytidoplasty.
| Procedure Type | Complementary Procedure | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical | Forehead Lift | Elevates low or drooping brows, smooths forehead wrinkles, improves upper facial harmony. |
| Surgical | Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) | Removes excess skin and fat from upper/lower eyelids; restores a rested, alert appearance. |
| Surgical | Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery) | Enhances nasal contour to better harmonize with rejuvenated facial proportions. |
| Non-Surgical | Botulinum Toxin (e.g., Botox) | Reduces dynamic wrinkles (glabella, forehead, crow’s feet) by relaxing targeted muscles. |
| Non-Surgical | Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (e.g., Restylane) | Restores volume in cheeks, lips, nasolabial folds; improves fine lines and definition. |
| Non-Surgical | Laser Resurfacing / Chemical Peels | Improves skin texture, tone, and pigmentation irregularities caused by photodamage or aging. |
Why combine procedures?
A face lift repositions and tightens the deep facial structures, but it doesn’t treat skin quality, fine wrinkles, or volume loss. These issues often persist after rhytidoplasty and may create contrast between the lifted areas and untreated zones.
By integrating procedures such as eyelid surgery or skin resurfacing, we can achieve a more uniform rejuvenation, helping patients look refreshed rather than “operated on.”
Tailoring the plan for you
Not every patient needs combination therapy, but many benefit from it. This is why your initial consultation is so important—it allows us to design a customized treatment plan that prioritizes natural results and long-term satisfaction.
Discover how rhinoplasty complements facial rhytidoplasty: Nose Job in Colombia – The Ultimate Guide to Rhinoplasty with Dr. David Delgado
Your personalized consultation for a facial rhytidoplasty in Medellín
A modern approach: Virtual consultations from anywhere
If you’re considering facial rhytidoplasty and you’re not based in Medellín—or simply prefer convenience—you’ll be glad to know that your initial consultation can happen virtually. This first step is designed to help us understand your goals, evaluate your case, and ensure you’re a good candidate for surgery, all from the comfort of your home.
When you fill out the online consultation form, we’ll ask you to upload a series of facial photographs. These images help me analyze your anatomy in detail and tailor my surgical plan to your unique features. It’s simple, secure, and a wonderful starting point for our conversation.
Let’s talk about your goals
During our call, we’ll talk about what you’re hoping to achieve—what bothers you, what you’ve noticed changing in your face, and how you’d like to look after surgery. This is your time to ask questions, voice concerns, and share your expectations.
My role is to offer honest, realistic feedback. I’ll explain what facial rhytidoplasty can and cannot do, how natural your results can look, and what kind of long-term benefits you might expect from the procedure.
What you’ll need for the initial consultation
To provide an accurate and safe recommendation, I’ll also need some key medical information from you. Here’s what we typically ask for:
Required for Your Rhytidoplasty Evaluation:
- A complete medical history, including chronic conditions or relevant diagnoses.
- Details of any previous surgeries, especially facial or cosmetic procedures.
- A list of current medications, including supplements and any known allergies.
- An honest conversation about your lifestyle, such as smoking, alcohol, or recent weight changes.
This information helps us assess both your aesthetic goals and your surgical safety profile. If everything looks good, we’ll discuss timelines, preparation steps, and how the surgical process would work for you—whether you’re local or planning to travel to Medellín.
It’s your time to age beautifully
The recovery journey after your face-lift
Planning for recovery in Medellín
If you’re traveling to Medellín for facial rhytidoplasty, it’s important to plan your recovery just as carefully as the surgery itself. Most of my patients from other cities—or even abroad—stay in Medellín for at least 7 to 10 days post-surgery. This allows us to monitor your healing closely, manage any early discomfort, and ensure that you’re ready to return home safely and confidently.
Follow-up matters
After your procedure, I’ll see you for several follow-up appointments to check your incisions, remove sutures when needed, and guide you through the healing process. These visits are vital, especially for out-of-town patients, as they allow me to catch and manage any minor issues before you travel back. If an extended stay is not possible, I’ll work with you to set up virtual follow-ups and coordinate care with your local provider if necessary.
Post-operative instructions: Your recovery roadmap
To achieve the best possible outcome after your facial rhytidoplasty, it’s essential that you follow post-operative instructions carefully and consistently. Even small missteps during recovery can affect your final result or increase the risk of complications. Below is a detailed guide I share with all my patients:
1. Clean and care for your incisions properly
Keep incision areas clean and dry, and only apply topical products that I’ve recommended (such as antibiotic ointment or silicone gel). Gently cleanse with sterile gauze or a clean cloth—never scrub or apply pressure. Avoid makeup or skincare products near incisions until I give you the green light.
2. Rest, but don’t stay completely inactive
While rest is key during the first few days, gentle movement is encouraged. Light walking around your accommodation (starting on day one or two) can help reduce the risk of blood clots and promote circulation. Avoid bending forward or sudden movements that increase pressure in the face or neck.
3. Avoid sun exposure at all costs
Your skin will be hypersensitive to UV light for several weeks. Direct sun can worsen swelling, delay healing, and lead to long-term pigmentation changes in healing tissue. Use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and—once approved—a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ on exposed areas.
4. Wait before returning to physical activity
Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that raise your heart rate or blood pressure for at least 3–4 weeks. These can increase swelling, risk bruising, and delay healing. I’ll give you personalized guidance during follow-ups.
5. Delay long-distance travel until cleared
If you’re flying back home, I recommend waiting at least 7 to 10 days post-surgery—or until I’ve completed your first follow-up and ensured everything looks stable. Swelling and pressure changes during flight can increase discomfort or affect healing.
6. Manage swelling and discomfort with care
Use cold compresses intermittently during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling (always with a barrier—never apply ice directly). Sleep with your head elevated on two pillows to help drain fluids. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen are typically sufficient for pain.
7. Know what’s normal—and what’s not
You should expect some swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild numbness. But you should contact me immediately if you notice:
- Excessive or sudden swelling
- Persistent bleeding
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, and fever)
- Severe asymmetry or sharp pain
We’ll stay in touch throughout your recovery, and I’m always available to evaluate anything that concerns you.
8. Attend all your follow-up appointments
Whether you’re staying in Medellín or returning home, these check-ins are vital. They allow me to:
- Monitor your healing.
- Remove sutures at the appropriate time.
- Guide your activity level.
- Adjust skincare or scar treatments as needed.
For out-of-town patients, I offer virtual follow-ups with the same level of detail and care.
9. Be patient with the process
Remember: healing takes time. You may see 60–80% of the final result within 4–6 weeks, but subtle swelling and tissue settling can continue for up to 6 months. The best results come with consistency, patience, and proper care.
Adhering to these instructions significantly reduces your risk of complications and optimizes your final aesthetic outcome.
What side effects are normal?
Facial rhytidoplasty is a well-tolerated procedure, but like any surgery, it comes with temporary side effects, especially in the first 7–14 days. The most common includes:
- Swelling: Especially around the cheeks and jawline, peaking around day 2–3.
- Bruising: Typically mild to moderate and fades progressively over a week or two.
- Numbness: Localized and temporary—usually around the ears or cheeks.
- Mild discomfort or tightness: Easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
My patients are often surprised by how easy recovery is, especially compared to expectations.
My final advice? Give yourself time
Remember—this is a journey, not an overnight transformation. The first few days will require rest, patience, and care. But week by week, your swelling will go down, your features will refine, and your confidence will grow.
For patients visiting Medellín, I often recommend turning your recovery into a quiet retreat. Book a peaceful space, bring a companion if possible, and allow yourself the time to rest and heal—your future self will thank you.
Why choose Medellín for your facial rhytidoplasty?
If you’re considering traveling for facial rhytidoplasty, let me personally invite you to Medellín—one of Latin America’s most respected destinations for medical tourism. Specifically, I would like to extend an invitation to my surgical practice.
The Joint Commission International (JCI) has certified Interquirófanos, a modern, state-of-the-art surgical facility, where I perform some of my procedures. This accreditation is one of the highest global standards for patient safety and healthcare quality—something I take very seriously when it comes to my patients, especially those traveling from abroad.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of operating on patients from North America, Europe, Central America, and across South America. Many of them chose Medellín not just for its excellent reputation in aesthetic surgery but for the warmth, professionalism, and personalized care they experienced throughout the process.
A seamless virtual Pre-Surgical process
I understand that traveling for surgery can feel overwhelming—that’s why I’ve developed a streamlined virtual consultation process. Before you ever board a plane, we’ll meet online, review your goals, evaluate your anatomy through detailed photographs, and determine if you’re a good candidate for surgery.
You’ll receive clear pre-operative instructions, assistance with your travel planning if needed, and a recovery timeline so you can confidently organize your stay in Medellín. Whether you come alone or with a companion, you’ll never feel like “just another patient.”
My commitment to you
Choosing to have surgery far from home requires trust—and I don’t take that lightly. My goal is not only to deliver outstanding surgical results but also to ensure you feel safe, heard, and cared for every step of the way.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a more refreshed, confident version of yourself, I’d be honored to guide you through that journey—right here in Medellín.
About Me: Dr. David Delgado
As a board-certified plastic and maxillofacial surgeon, I’ve had the privilege of performing hundreds of facial rhytidoplasty procedures over the course of my career. I trained at the Industrial University of Santander and completed advanced studies at the University of Antioquia, two of Colombia’s top medical institutions.
My surgical approach is grounded in both aesthetics and anatomical precision, and I’ve refined techniques that provide natural, long-lasting results. I perform all surgeries at Interquirófanos, a JCI-accredited surgical center here in Medellín, and I work with a highly qualified, multidisciplinary team.
Many of my patients come from abroad, trusting not only my hands, but also the care, planning, and follow-up that go into every procedure. For me, transforming faces is not just about appearance—it’s about confidence, identity, and quality of life.
Frequently asked questions about facial rhytidoplasty
How long do the results of a facial rhytidoplasty typically last?
Results from facial rhytidoplasty are long-lasting—often between 8 to 12 years, depending on your skin quality, age, lifestyle, and how well you care for your skin after surgery. While the aging process continues, the improvements from surgery provide a refreshed baseline that continues to look better than if you had never done the procedure.
Can facial rhytidoplasty be combined with fat grafting?
Yes. Many patients benefit from combining facial rhytidoplasty with autologous fat transfer, which restores lost volume in areas like the cheeks, temples, or nasolabial folds. This combination enhances contour and improves facial harmony, particularly in cases where volume loss is as prominent as sagging.
Is facial rhytidoplasty recommended for men?
Absolutely. Facial rhytidoplasty for men has become increasingly popular. The techniques are adapted to preserve masculine features such as a stronger jawline and avoid feminizing the face. Men may also benefit from less invasive techniques or shorter incisions to accommodate different hairlines or patterns of hair loss.
Will I still look like myself after facial rhytidoplasty?
Yes—if the surgery is done well. My approach to facial rhytidoplasty is always to enhance your natural appearance, not to alter your identity. You’ll still look like you, just more rested, refreshed, and youthful.
Can facial rhytidoplasty correct asymmetries in the face?
To some extent, yes. While perfect symmetry is rare in any face, facial rhytidoplasty can improve visible asymmetries by repositioning tissues and balancing proportions. In some cases, additional procedures like fat grafting or fillers may be recommended for finer correction.
What anesthesia is used during facial rhytidoplasty?
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, though in select cases it can be done with local anesthesia and IV sedation. The choice depends on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s health profile, which we determine during your pre-operative planning.
Is facial rhytidoplasty painful?
Discomfort is usually mild to moderate, especially in the first few days. Most patients describe it more as tightness or pressure than actual pain. Over-the-counter medication is usually enough, and I provide guidance on how to manage any discomfort safely.
How soon after facial rhytidoplasty can I return to work or social activities?
Most patients feel comfortable returning to light social activities within 10 to 14 days. Bruising and swelling gradually subside, and makeup can help cover residual marks. For full public or professional appearances, I generally recommend waiting 3 to 4 weeks.
- Monitor your healing.
- Remove sutures at the appropriate time.
- Guide your activity level.
- Adjust skincare or scar treatments as needed.
For out-of-town patients, I offer virtual follow-ups with the same level of detail and care.
References
- Castillo-Campos, P. (2022). Rhytidoplasty through minimal incisions (Rhythmic). Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, 4, ojac059. https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojac059
- Montedonio, J., Queiroz Filho, W., Pousa, C. E. T., Paixão, M. P., & Almeida, A. E. F. (2010). Rhytidoplasty Fundamentals. Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology, 2(4), 305–314.
