Face Lift

 

PROCEDURE OVERVIEW

Face Lift

Surgery: Face Lift (Standard Face Lift, Mid Face Lift, Cheek Lift, S-Lift, Mini Face Lift, Full Face Lift)

The terminology for a face lift procedure can be confusing and may vary from country to country and doctor to doctor. It is best to put aside the terminology and allow the surgeon to make a recommendation specifically for your case.

The most common face lift procedure is the mid-face lift (cheek lift). A mid-face lift will focus on the sagging skin from the lower eye area to the upper lip. It doesn’t include lower eyelid or upper eyelid surgery but this may be performed at the same time if required.

A mid-face lift may also decrease the depth around the nasolabial fold which is from the side of the mouth to the mouth corner.

A Full Face Lift usually comprises a forehead lift, neck lift and mid-face lift. 

Incisions for a face lift will depend upon the single or combined procedures to be performed. Commonly, the incisions are place along the hairline, in front of and behind the ears and neck.

Often a mid-face lift and neck lift need to be performed together to obtain the best results.

A face lift doesn’t include microliposuction but it may be recommended if you have fatty deposits that need to be removed to give the best outcome to your surgery.

A face lift cannot remove wrinkles completely as the skin cannot be tightened excessively. Other treatments such as a chemical peel, fillers and other injectables can improve wrinkles and creases.

A face lift surgery cannot be performed at the same time as laser resurfacing, chemical peels or LASIK vision correction.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How old do I have to be to have this surgery?

You must be at least 20 years of age to have elective surgery in Thailand. Patients under the age of 20 years need to provide a signed Consent Form from their parent/guardian if the surgeon accepts the case.

How soon can I have this surgery?

We can secure priority appointments for our clients subject to the surgeon’s availability. However it is best to request an appointment well in advance so that the surgeon can advise you about the steps to take before coming for surgery.

How long does the operation take and will I be asleep?

This procedure takes up to 6-8 hours under general anaesthetic.

Where will the incisions be?

The incisions will depend upon the type of face lift and technique used. Generally, there will be scars running from the temples, down the front of the ears and looping around the earlobes. Since these are made behind the hairline and along the natural skin creases, they are expected to become inconspicuous as healing and tissue remodelling progresses. However, the surgeon may recommend a different technique and placement of incisions may change. Please discuss the placement with the surgeon at your consultation prior to surgery.

Will there be scaring?

Scaring will be present where the incisions were made. These may fade to fine lines or may remain obvious after healing is completed. How your scars will appear depends on how your body heals.

How long will I be in hospital?

Up to 3 nights admission is necessary. The actual length of admission will depend upon the surgeon’s recommendation.

How long do I have to stay in Thailand?

The surgeon usually recommends a stay of at least 12 - 14 in Thailand in total, (based on having surgery the day after you arrive). This is to allow you time to recover and to have a follow up consultation with the surgeon and removal of sutures. The surgeon may change the recommended time overseas based on age, medical conditions or where more than one surgery is being performed.

Why can’t I leave sooner?

For your own safety you should observe the recommendation. Air travel presents risks such as deep vein thrombosis. To leave sooner would present an unnecessary risk. If you cannot stay the recommended time it is best not to have surgery overseas.

Will I have a consultation with the surgeon before surgery?

Yes, the surgeon will examine you and discuss the procedure with you before your surgery. He will answer any questions you may have

What are the risks associated with a face lift?

There are always risks in having surgery. This applies whether you have surgery overseas or at home. Risks include unfavourable scarring, bleeding or hematoma formation, infection, poor wound healing and tissue necrosis (skin and fat), hair loss at the incisions, facial nerve injury with weakness, facial asymmetry, numbness or other changes in skin sensation, fluid accumulation, pain, which may persist, skin contour irregularities, skin discoloration, sensitivity or swelling, and risks associated with anaesthesia and possibility of revisional surgery. There is the possibility of unsatisfactory results which may include asymmetry, unsatisfactory surgical scar location, unacceptable visible deformities at the ends of the incisions (It may be necessary to perform additional surgery to improve your results). Smokers may experience a delay the healing process and are at a higher risk of complications. Please talk to the surgeon about all of the risks before proceeding with surgery.

How should I prepare for surgery?

When we have your case assessed by the surgeon before you travel overseas, you may be given some specific instructions by the plastic surgeon about preparing for surgery. Generally, you will be asked to stop some medications and all vitamin supplements, alcohol and smoking. You must not stop any prescription medications without first consulting your prescribing physician or instruction from the surgeon.

What should I do after surgery?

The surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions after surgery which may include wearing a compression garment. Exercise, strenuous activities and dental treatment after facial surgery are not recommended after a face lift. Stretching the facial skin can cause scarring and interfere with wound healing.

When can I start exercising?

Usually exercise and normal physical activities can resume in about 6-8 weeks after surgery however please ask your surgeon about this as it can vary from case to case.

How much does this surgery cost?

To get a free estimate for this surgery please click here

How can I get a surgeons opinion before travelling overseas?

To get a free surgeons opinion and estimate for this surgery please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here

Can I see before and after photos?

Due to privacy laws, before and after photos are not available online. The surgeon may provide these to you once you have your case reviewed. To have a free review of your case please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here

Can I talk to a past patient?

Yes, many of our clients are very happy to talk to others that are planning surgery through Stunning Makeovers. Before we can put you in touch, please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here.

 

TESTIMONIALS

Robyn C from Auckland, New Zealand

Dr Theera was easy to consult with.  He advised and recommended, but did not push.  

Both my friend and I emphasised we just wished to ‘look good’ for our age …….He described the procedure and answered questions openly.

The nursing and support staff were very welcoming and professional, very gentle and caring.   

The Filipino nurses had a better command of the English language so were easier to communicate with. There was certainly no shortage of nursing staff and therefore a lot of care and attention.

The service provided was second to none.  We were taken directly to the International Patient desk and well looked after from there.

Vejthani Hospital was a well appointed hospital – more like a 1st class hotel. Very impressive and comfortable waiting areas.  

I was asked to undergo blood tests, chest x-ray, ECG and many blood pressure tests before being accepted for the surgery.

At Vejthani Hospital for a very nominal cost to us we also had appointments (and follow up appointment) with a Cardiologist just to be on the safe side. We were impressed that this specialist treatment was made available to us.

I am happy that the procedure I have done should allow me to be comfortable to continue in the work force for the next 7-8 years.  At that stage (age 70) I will probably be ready to retire, so probably will not return for more cosmetic surgery.

I will recommend Stunning Makeovers and have been doing so since my return.

Stunning Makeovers organised everything for us and made the whole process/holiday so easy.

Obviously best prices had been negotiated and considered the experience and results excellent value.

I am happy with my results and the whole experience.  Albeit my recovery being a bit slow – but came right almost immediately once I stopped a medication I was on.  Dr Theera did tell me my healing would be slow.

Anyway nothing stopped us once I came right. We certainly had a fantastic time.

Naturally I am promoting Stunning Makeovers where I am asked, and this is a question most people have asked me.

Really appreciate the time you have taken with us.   Personally I found it very reassuring that you were readily available by telephone.

I would suggest clients take some headwear to the hospital (shawl/pashmina) to cover bandages and bruising/swelling.  It is a long walk through the Hotel to the elevators and can cause some embarrassment.

Breakfast at the hotel was included and was fantastic once I was ready to mingle with the other diners. 

For the average NZ and Australian woman, massages, visits to the manicurist and hairdresser are all luxuries few of us part-take on a regular basis.  I found the prices of the pampering just so affordable.   

Ngaire S from Hamilton, New Zealand

We chose Stunning Makeovers because it is a NZ based company and we were able to meet Paul face to face and were not continually pursued as I experienced from a different site with a non New Zealand company.

I am satisfied with Stunning Makeovers.

My doctor was extremely relaxed and was easy to understand, All the nursing and support staff were excellent. I will return for a new set of dentures within the next two years hopefully as Robyn said the dentist Stunning Makeovers arranged was extremely thorough.

I would recommend Stunning Makeovers service over others as Paul is helpful and can be met personally if required.  This gave me confidence rather than just a voice over the phone.

I am happy for you to give my phone number to future clients of yours if they wish to speak or meet if practical to assist them in feeling confident they are making a good move.

Debra H from Auckland New Zealand

I choose Stunning Makeovers because they are NZ based. Stunning Makeovers gave excellent service.  Always able to be contacted and very well organised

Dr Theera was excellent - very calm and professional. The nursing and support staff were

excellent in all areas. World class. Friendly, helpful, dedicated. The nurses were excellent, organised, prompt and friendly

The hospital facilities were excellent

Steve M from Northland New Zealand

My stay at Yanhee Hospital has been of total satisfaction.  The before and after treatment can be described as excellent. But it is the service of the staff that go that extra yard to provide my stay as one of total dedication with a smile.  

It’s the finer details that separates Yanhee International Hospital from the rest.  If I was asked where they could improve their service I could not fault any part of the service that has been provided to me.  

For anyone considering surgery I would suggest Yanhee International Hospital as the highest, superior services to provide a pleasant stay and fully satisfied with the services.

Debbie M from Auckland, New Zealand

I have found the care and attention in every aspect of the nursing staff to be second to none. 

The nurses are gentle and efficient and response time to summoning is always under 2 minutes. Yanhee hospital is a well oiled machine and experienced destination for surgery. I have yet to see the results of my choice of surgery but the advice I have been given thus far to get the best results has been invaluable.

Brent W from Christchurch, New Zealand

I had heard of Stunning Makeovers through some type of advertising in the past and was very pleased with your service. Transfers were great and on time, hotel very nice and well located.

I am very pleased with what I had done. I am now 56 and have had people think I am in my early to mid-40s. No one in my family or friends picked up on anything being done. Thank you very much.

Kerri B from Sydney, Australia

I was very lucky to get the doctor I chose he was excellent and the hospital and care were 5 stars!

I don’t know how they do it in Sydney as they only give you one night in hospital, this would be incredibly painful as you need the 3 days care.

Judy G from

I chose Stunning Makeovers because I'd seen a piece on the TV about you and I liked what I saw on your web site. 

The surgeon, with my face and neck lift, did a wonderful job. He was very professional.The nurses were very efficient and courteous. The other liaison-type staff were great and explained everything fully to me after surgery. I could not find fault with any of the staff. The service was fabulous and the facilities very nice.

I would return for more surgery without hesitation especially now that I know what to expect and I would gladly recommend Yanhee to anyone. 

I am very satisfied with Stunning Makeovers service as we gave you a very short time to organize things for the two of us and it all came together smoothly. Paul couldn't have been more helpful no matter the time of day. 

Kim C from

Thanks for the great service Paul.  Loved the Hotel, Yanhee staff and doctor are very professional. The hospital leaves Australia behind in professionalism and patient care.

I'll definitely be sending friends and clients your way for you to help them reach their own personal dreams with a makeover. 

Rita F from

I was impressed with the video I watched of you being interviewed by a television program hence choosing Stunning Makeovers.

The surgeon is very caring, listened to my concerns and was able to explain to me exactly what he could achieve for me. Nurses were very kind and gentle. They attended my every need and looked after me exceptionally well. The service is faultless; I can’t think of anything that I was not happy with. Furthermore, the hotel was great. The location was fantastic and we were able to get around the city easily by the BTS.  The hospital was very organized and the services provided even before surgery were unbelievable.

I was so impressed with how everything ran so smoothly beginning with the airport pickup, the transfers to the hospital, the interview with the surgeon, the care and attention from the nursing staff and everyone at the hospital.

I would return for more surgery/dental treatment as I am considering more dental work and maybe liposuction in the future.

I definitely would recommend Stunning Makeovers to others. The service provided was as promised, there were no hidden costs and the facilities chosen were great. 

I am very satisfied with Stunning Makeover’s services. Thank you again for making my dream come true. My results have been outstanding.  I am very pleased with the results and have had many compliments. 

Judith M and Margaret L from New Zealand

The nurses were lovely, surgeons were excellent and hospital facilities were great. I would recommend Stunning Makeovers, very happy with your organization.

Judith M and Margaret L from New Zealand

The nurses were lovely, surgeons were excellent and hospital facilities were great. I would recommend Stunning Makeovers, very happy with your organization.

Shelley C from

Everything at Thailand ran like clockwork. The hospital was great, service excellent and the surgeon is now my newest Best Friend!

Thank you for a stress free enjoyable trip. The hospital was great, service was excellent.

Rita F from

Surgery went extremely well and I am ecstatic with the results. Everything you organisedwent without a hitch. The hospital was great, the surgeon was fantastic and all the nurses who looked after me were so kind and beautiful.

I am very impressed with how everything was organised and I would definitely recommend your services. So thank you again for making my dream come true. 

Gail C from

The staff at Sea Smile have been great.  I have been 3 times so far and despite my morbid fear of dentists have found them to be pretty good.  I do need to come back next year so will definitely be booking with you again. May have two or three friends coming along as well.

I will certainly have a much improved smile that’s for sure.  It will end up costing me about 11 grand but it would have been 3 or 4 times that much in Australia.

Penelope M from

The team who welcomed me at the International Desk were very kind and helpful.  Each time I met these ladies, I was always made very special.  The ward staff  were also very helpful, kind and considerate. Extremely good care following surgery by the doctor, nurses and aides who were very kind and involved.

To sum it up, it was a wonderful adventure, process and outcome. Thanks to all who made it so great. 

Valerie R from New Zealand

I am very satisfied with Stunning Makeovers services. I was very impressed with the surgeon; he was extremely professional and polished which inspired confidence. My results were better than I had imagined they could be especially the tummy tuck. He provided an extremely high standard of care from pre op to follow up visits.

The nursing and support staff were always courteous, helpful and professional. I was given an excellent level of care and never had to wait when any request was made of them. Pain relief was offered regularly and I never had to ask for it.  My comfort was maintained at all times. Vejthani Hospitalprovided excellent service even the van driver! The facilities were modern and clean, up to date equipment, as good if not better than I have experienced in any New Zealand or UK private hospital.

Considering the serious nature of surgery; the facilities and care provided were of an excellent standard. The cost was very reasonable. I was very impressed with the surgeon and the anaesthesiologist and felt confident that I was in competent hands during my lengthy surgery.

I would most definitely return, if I wanted more surgery/dental treatment.

 

Jenny H from New Zealand

The surgeon and his team were great not to mention the nursing staff was fantastic as well. In addition, the service was great and the facilities were lovely and clean.

I would return for more surgery and will recommend Stunning Makeovers.

Ultimately, I was very happy with Stunning Makeovers service.  

Susan S from New Zealand

Chatted with an Australian woman who booked the whole thing herself. She had a terrible experience. She was too afraid to go out and do anything. I have told her where to go and how and other things like how to call the translators at the hospital. She said she saw your web site but thought it was only for Kiwis. When I assured her it was for Aussies too she seemed quite upset. Her experience has been so different to mine. How wise I was to book through you!

On another note you don't have to take anything except your passport and money to Vejthani. They provide everything else including a comprehensive complimentary toilet bag filled with everything you could possibly need.

Charlene from Auckland, New Zealand

It's amazing how much just one day of recovery makes! My partner has already finished with his consultations so he's been enjoying playing tourist. I get the last of the stitches out this morning then continue recovery.

We wanted to say that there are no words to express how grateful we are to have had Mary (group trip coordinator) beside us on our journey.  Having someone take away any added stress for us during an emotional and trying time has been incredibly and sincerely appreciated. Such a genuinely caring person is an asset for Stunning Makeovers. Thank You Paul

Tina from Australia

I chose to travel with a group that was coming up as once I decided to go ahead I wanted to go as soon as possible but not by myself.

I was so impressed with the clear information and what a great resource of information in the patient travel pack, I felt very reassured!

Everything was very well organised and clear instructions given.

Once I got to Thailand I felt very well taken care of. At the hospital everything happened very swiftly and professionally. The nurses were all very lovely, the hospital itself and the facilities are very clean and lovely Decor.

I would highly recommend Stunning Makeovers and definitely recommend a group tour as our Coordinator Mary made the whole experience enjoyable with her local knowledge, guidance and support.

I made some lovely new friends and overall it was a very positive experience. If I was ever to have more surgery/dental work done, it would only be with Stunning Makeovers. Thank you for providing such a great service! :-)

UPDATE

Back in OZ and after a good sleep feeling great!

I can only highly recommend the service you provide. Everything just fell into place and was so well organized. I felt safe and looked.

All the staff were wonderful and Mary is an amazing asset to your company. I will miss our lovely long breakfasts with all of us sitting together and picking Mary's brain for information about Bangkok.

 She was wonderful, patiently providing us with local knowledge and never stopped smiling despite our many questions.

I would highly recommend going in a group, as we had some lovely times together and it was great discussing everyone's progress and the feeling of support in the group.

 So overall a great experience, so much better than I could've imagined :-)

 I would like to thank you and your staff for providing such a great service!

Charlene R from Tauranga, New Zealand

After doing extensive research on organisations which offered medical travel, I came across the TV interview of Paul on The Beat Goes On.

The fact alone that Paul was on national TV promoting Stunning Makeovers portrayed credibility in my opinion.

After reading the testimonies of others who had engaged Stunning Makeovers services I was satisfied that the company was held in high regard with a good reputation. From the beginning communication was quick and informative.

I liked that Stunning Makeovers was very thorough with expectations and requirements to mitigate or anticipate any potential health risks (e.g. requiring a medication certificate from own GP, plus the need to complete a comprehensive application form).

What satisfied me most is that Paul contacted me and contact continued via email post op.

Also, and especially, that a coordinator (Mary) was appointed to take care of the group while in Bangkok. I hate to imagine what my experience would have been like had Mary not been on-hand to take care of my well-being by following up any queries, questions or concerns I had of the surgeon or hospital. She also gave very useful local information about what to and what not to do in Bangkok.

I cannot speak highly enough of the nursing and support staff. They were caring, efficient, professional, compassionate and had a good command of English. 

The international staff were also very helpful and reassuring, especially JR and Cindy. It was very pleased that Marcia of the international department  was present in the room at both of my follow up appointments. 

Service was very good, and very comprehensive (tests etc pre op). The meals were a little heavy which I found mostly difficult to eat due to not being able to chew very well (swelling and pain post facelift). The food did look tasty and well presented from what I saw. Felt embarrassed that I couldn't eat it.

The transport to and from the hospital was very efficient and timely.

I would recommend Stunning Makeovers to others because it is clear Paul has a personal and genuine interest in people who choose medical travel through his organisation. Having the option to have a cordinator appointed to a group makes such a huge difference to those travelling. Invaluable! 

Offering extra's such as a day train pass and complimentary Thai massage was a bonus. 

Paul, I can't thank you and Stunning Makeovers enough for making our trip what it was. I am already speaking to others who very interested in travelling to Thailand for procedures through Stunning Makeovers.I appreciate all Stunning Makeovers work from the travel to surgeons to follow up and support and that I am so pleased I decided to travel with Stunning Makeovers.

Donna P from Tauranga, New Zealand

My friend had recommended Stunning Makeovers to me. All the staff and international support team where great. The service was fantastic and well above expected.

Service was great. It was good to have all the shuttles pre booked   Nice to get messages after surgery

Dr Theera was great and he did a great job and was very reassuring.

I found the hotel was in an excellent spot once you got to know the city. I would certainly stay there again and the staff where great.

I’m very pleased and looking to come back. 

Brenda R from Auckland, New Zealand

Hi Paul,  everything went perfectly with my surgery, hotel and travel arrangements, they all fell into place beautifully so thank you and all your team very very much.

I was very pleased too with all the nursing staff and coordinators and doctors. I had a lovely time at the Hotel and having the shops and trains at my fingers tips just topped it all off. I felt relaxed safe and confident in my surroundings. 

Many thanks, I have no hesitation  in recommending your company to anyone thinking of heading to Thailand for surgery. 

I chose Stunning Makeovers because I liked the idea of not having the stress of organising everything myself and going with a reputable organisation made me feel more confident.

I am very, very satisfied with Stunning Makeovers service. Everything ran perfectly smoothly  - hotel, transport and flights.

At the hospital, I was very well supervised after my surgery and felt safe. My surgeon spoke excellent English as did most of the immediate staff. He had good references and had done many ops like mine.

Nursing and Support staff were all great, helpful and cheerful and would go out of their way to assist as much as possible.

The service was excellent, a top job and the facilities were all lovely, modern and clean.

I would you return for more surgery and am now considering dental treatment for next year.I would recommend Stunning Makeovers to others unreservedly, no hesitation.

Ms Ying from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
We are very happy with the progress and have thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
 
Please send our thanks to Paul & the team. My mum really likes the Thai people they are very polite and professional.
 
We may decide to return next year for more work, will be in contact then.
 
Thanks for organizing everything for us.
Ms Dalia K from Melbourne, Australia

All went very well and I am very happy with the outcome.

Julie S. from Melbourne, Australia
Stunning Makeovers had the best client reviews which was why I chose them to make my arrangements.Stunning Makeovers service was excellent and I had great communication with Ann & Paul .
The surgeon was good, nursing and support staff and facilities were excellent.
Janene K. from Gold Coast, Australia
Day two now and all is well. Absolutely doing fine and everyone is lovely. 
Thanks to all your efforts to make this as comfortable as possible. 
THANK YOU 
Evina H. from Melbourne, Australia
I was very early at the hospital so was the first to see the doctor. He recommended for me to have a mid lift and neck lift only and recommended a forehead lift in a few years time.
The operation was at 11.30 and all went well. I have to say that it is a serious intervention, probably more intense than I expected and I am glad that my eyes weren't done as well :)
I looked pretty horrific afterwards, which was to be expected ha,ha…
 
Overall, I am very happy with the outcome and the surgeon. I thought that he was very careful and gentle.
 
I would certainly recommend this doctor and the hospital.
Malcolm O. from Melbourne, Australia
I chose Stunning Makeovers because they did not want surgeons fees up front. I am very satisfied with Stunning Makeovers service and highly recommend Stunning Makeovers
I was impressed with the hospital facilities and everything was positive with my experience with the surgeon.  The nursing and support staff at the hospital were very helpful, especially co ordinator
At this stage I am very happy with the results of surgery. 
Suzanne M. from Byron Bay, Australia
Stunning Makeovers were very easy and helpful to deal with. I researched and found them to be the most thorough with everything.I am very Stunning Makeovers service
Paul was wonderful and made himself available at all times. No question was too much. I appreciated their understanding and concern.
 
My surgeon was very pleasant although did not spend much time with him really. The nursing and support staff at the hospital were wonderful & responsive and the facilities were of a very high class.
The accommodation Stunning Makeovers arranged was very nice, with in easy walking distance to everything and the hotel staff all lovely, helpful and friendly. I didn’t eat an evening meal at the hotel but breakfasts were really nice and varied.
Penelope M. from Wellington, New Zealand
I choose Stunning Makeovers because of the excellent reviews and I am very satisfied 
 
My surgeon, Dr Veerawat, was excellent. He's compassionate, has a sense of humour, and is fascinated by his patients and what he can do for them! He will tell you (as he did me) if a procedure you want is not suitable for you in some way.  
 
The outpatient staff were lovely and I have nothing but praise for their attitude and care. 
 
Sandra B. from Mildura Australia
I am surprised at how well I am doing 2 days after surgery. Very little bruising or swelling and no pain relief only for a sore back for some reason maybe the bed.
I am being released from hospital tomorrow, I had a visit from the lovely Mia today she was very impressed with my progress, Thank you for the well organised surgery trip to Thailand . 
 
 
My recovery has been remarkable no pain or setbacks. I am seeing the other girls in the group every day and enjoying the catch ups. 
The rest of my stitches come out Monday so I'm looking forward to the end of the procedure.  
Jennette H. from Christchurch, New Zealand

All going good, no problems and every day gets better. I'm so pleased I chose the right doctor, I'm very happy.

Sandra B. from Mildura, Australia

I 'm extremely happy with my new look it has been over and beyond my expectations.