Learn More about Face lifts (aka Rhytidectomy)

Key Facts:

Duration: 3-6 hours

Clinic Stay: 1-2 days

Anesthesia: General anesthesia

Recovery Duration: 2 – 4 weeks for initial recovery

Back to work: 2 – 3 weeks

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the facial skin and underlying tissues to reduce sagging and wrinkles. This procedure restores a more youthful and refreshed appearance by addressing signs of aging in the face and neck. General anesthesia is normally required.

Rhytidectomy can help you with:

Reducing sagging skin on the face and neck.
Smoothing deep folds and wrinkles.
Tightening underlying facial tissues.
Restoring a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Enhancing facial contours and improving overall facial harmony.

You may be a suitable candidate for Rhytidectomy if:

You are physically healthy and have no serious medical conditions.
You have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.
You have noticeable signs of aging, such as sagging skin and deep wrinkles.
You are a non-smoker or able to stop smoking for a period before and after surgery.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in our state-of-the-art facilities. The procedure typically takes 2-5 hours and involves:

Making a horizontal incision between the hip bones, low enough to be concealed by underwear
Lifting the skin to access and repair the abdominal muscles
Removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen
Repositioning the remaining skin and closing incisions
Placing surgical drains to prevent fluid buildup

General Schedule – Standard Package for an Rhytidectomy Procedure

Before you arrive:
- Begin with an initial online meeting with your in-country advocate, who will oversee your case, and our consulting doctor.
- You will be referred to one of our specialists for an initial online meeting.
- Conclude with a pre-travel meeting with your in-country advocate to finalize your itinerary.
Day 1 – Arrival day:
- Upon arrival in Colombia, you will be greeted at the airport by your advocate.
- Transport to your hotel will be provided.
- Your advocate will conduct a welcome briefing at the hotel.
Day 2 – Preparation day:
- Your advocate will meet you at the hotel in the morning.
- You will be transported to your pre-procedural consultation with your specialist.
- Have a detailed consultation with your advocate to ensure you are fully prepared for the procedure.
Day 3 & 4 – Procedure and Initial Recovery:
- In the morning, your advocate will escort you to the clinic for your procedure.
- Spend the night in the clinic for monitoring and initial recovery.
- The following day, your advocate will pick you up from the clinic and take you back to your hotel.
Day 5 – Recovery day:
- Take at least one full day for recovery after the procedure.
- This day ensures you are ready for travel and that the procedure was successful.
- Depending on how you feel, you may choose to engage in light activities. Transport and advocate support will be available throughout the day.
Day 6 – Travel day:
- Your advocate will meet you at the hotel for your departure.
- Transport to the airport will be provided.
- Your advocate will accompany you until you reach customs.

What to expect before, during, and after the Rhytidectomy surgery?

Before Surgery:

You will have a consultation with your surgeon to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns.
Pre-surgery instructions may include avoiding certain medications, stopping smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

During Surgery:

The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.
The surgeon will make incisions around the hairline and ears to lift and tighten the skin and underlying tissues.
Excess skin may be removed, and the incisions will be closed with sutures.

After Surgery:

You may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which should gradually improve over the first few weeks.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to care for your incisions and manage any discomfort.
Use prescribed medications and avoid strenuous activities to aid in the healing process.
Full recovery can take several weeks to months, with results becoming apparent as the swelling subsides.

Recovery After Your Surgery

Here’s your path to recovery:

First Week

You’ll stay with us for the first night or two. There’ll be some swelling and bruising – think of it like a really bad bruise that fades day by day. Your face might feel tight and a bit numb, but we’ll keep you comfortable with medication. You’ll wear a special soft bandage, and we’ll show you how to keep your head elevated while resting. Ice packs are your new best friend!

Weeks 2-3

The major swelling starts going down now. Most people feel ready to head back to work, though some like to wait a bit longer. You might still have some numbness or tightness – totally normal at this stage. Your stitches come out, and you’ll start seeing your new look emerging, though things will keep improving.

Months 1-2

Now you’re getting back into your regular routine. The changes look natural – people might say you look refreshed or well-rested rather than “worked on.” You can style your hair normally and wear makeup again. Exercise is usually fine now, starting gradually of course.

Long-term Results

Your results keep getting better over the next few months as the last bit of swelling disappears. The changes are long-lasting, especially if you take good care of your skin. Most people tell us they love how natural they look – just a younger, more refreshed version of themselves.

Get Started Now

Our base package includes:

In-country ground transportation,
In-country concierge service,
Stay at a comfortable 4 Star Accommodation,
Consultation and orientation with our in-house doctor,
Medical Procedure,
Travel insurance.

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FAQs – Here we answer your common questions about Rhytidectomy

Find out more about how we make your medical journey smooth and stress-free.

The results of a rhytidectomy, or facelift, can last up to 10 years or more, depending on factors such as your skin type, lifestyle, and aging process.

A rhytidectomy can significantly improve your appearance by reducing wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging. This can boost self-confidence and provide a more youthful and refreshed look.

Most patients stay in the clinic for 1-2 nights post-surgery for monitoring and initial recovery.

Initial recovery usually takes about 2-3 weeks. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside during this time. Full recovery and final results can take several months.

Most people can return to work and normal activities within 2-3 weeks, depending on the nature of their job and their personal recovery progress.

Pain levels vary, but most patients experience moderate discomfort that can be managed with prescribed pain medications. The first few days are typically the most uncomfortable.

Rhytidectomy is generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. As with any surgery, there are risks and potential complications, which should be discussed with your surgeon.

Many patients find rhytidectomy worth it due to the significant improvement in their appearance and self-esteem. The decision is personal and should be made after thorough consideration and consultation with a qualified surgeon.

Rhytidectomy involves incisions, but they are typically made in inconspicuous locations, such as around the ears and along the hairline. With proper care, scars usually fade and become less noticeable over time.

The information provided here within should not be construed in any way as medical guidance or advice. Please consult with your medical physical or health provider. Information provided is for informative purposes only and may not capture all pertinent laws, standards, and best practices. The medical field is continually evolving; information mentioned may be outdated and/or could undergo changes. The interpretations presented are not official. Some sections are based on the interpretations or views of relevant authorities, but we cannot ensure that these perspectives will be supported in all professional settings.