Facelift in Turkey: deep plane, SMAS, recovery and how long to stay
A facelift lifts the deeper tissues of the lower face and neck and removes excess skin. It takes 3–5 hours, usually under general anaesthetic, with one night in hospital. Plan 8–10 days in Istanbul for stitch removal and checks; most people feel comfortable socially after 2–3 weeks.
Updated 30/10/2026 · general information, not medical advice
Key facts
Typical ranges for a healthy adult (sources at the bottom of the page). Your surgeon or dentist sets your own plan after examining you.
What it is
Modern facelifts reposition the deeper layer (SMAS) rather than just pulling the skin, for a more natural result. Incisions run around the ear and into the hairline. A neck lift is often combined. Eyelid surgery or fat transfer may be added.
Techniques
SMAS facelift
Tightens the superficial muscle and fascia layer.
Deep plane facelift
Releases and lifts deeper tissues together; often longer lasting, technically demanding.
Mini facelift
Shorter scars, for early ageing; limited effect on the neck.
Neck lift
Treats neck bands and loose skin.
Who it suits
Usually a good candidate
- Sagging jowls and neck
- Good general health; non-smoker
- Realistic goals
Think twice / discuss first
- Smoking (higher risk of skin healing problems)
- Uncontrolled blood pressure (higher haematoma risk)
- Wanting to treat fine lines only
Your stay in Istanbul, step by step
- Day 1Consultation and tests.
- Day 2Surgery (3–5 hours) and one night in hospital.
- Days 3–7Hotel rest with head raised; drains or dressings checked.
- Days 8–10Stitches removed; final check before flying.
Recovery timeline
- Weeks 1–2Swelling and bruising; tightness.
- Weeks 2–3Most people return to work and social life.
- Months 3–6Residual swelling resolves; sensation returns.
- Months 6–12Final result; scars fade.
Risks and complications
- Haematoma – the most common early complication
- Facial nerve weakness (usually temporary)
- Skin healing problems, particularly in smokers
- Visible scars, hair loss around incisions
- Asymmetry
This list is not exhaustive. Your surgeon should explain the risks that apply to you, in writing, before you consent.
Cost: what drives the price
The technique (mini, SMAS, deep plane), added procedures (neck, eyelids, fat transfer), the surgeon and the package drive the price.
Few Istanbul facilities publish prices for this treatment on their own website, and we only show prices that facilities publish themselves. Ask for a written, itemised quote.
Questions to ask the clinic
- Which facelift technique will you use, and why for me?
- How many facelifts does the surgeon perform each year?
- Is the neck included?
- How do you manage blood pressure and haematoma risk?
- When will my stitches be removed?
Clinics in Istanbul for this treatment
These 6 Istanbul facilities from our cosmetic surgery list are among the most searched from the UK. Check with each one that it performs this exact procedure, who the surgeon is, and where it takes place.
Medicana
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant · Dental treatment
Esteworld
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant
Liv Hospital
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery
Istanbul Aesthetic Center
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant
Estetik International
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant · Dental treatment
Vanity Estetik
Cosmetic surgery
All cosmetic surgery clinics →
Related treatments
Frequently asked questions
How long should I stay in Istanbul after a facelift?
Usually 8–10 days, until stitch removal and checks.
How long does a facelift last?
It turns back the clock but ageing continues; results are often described as lasting about 10 years, depending on technique and skin.
When can I go out in public after a facelift?
Most people feel comfortable after 2–3 weeks.
Sources: BAAPS – Facelift and necklift; NHS – Cosmetic surgery abroad (accessed 30/10/2026).