Cervico-Facial Lift in Dubai

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steps :

Hospitalisation : 1 night in hospital (sometimes outpatient depending on the case)
Duration of the procedure : Approximately 2½ to 3½ hours, under general anaesthetic
Post-operative pain : Moderate, 5 to 10 days, well relieved by painkillers
Dressings : 2 to 5 days depending on protocol (often replaced by light compression)
Cessation of sporting activities : 4 to 6 weeks
Time off work : 2 to 3 weeks (depending on activity)
Visible morphological results : Appearance improved after 3 weeks, optimal results between 3 and 6 months
Post-operative check-up and follow-up : Check-ups on day 2, day 7, then at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months

Principle :

Cervico-facial lifting is one of the most requested aesthetic procedures among patients who wish to restore facial harmony, reduce visible signs of aging, and regain confidence in their appearance. As a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Dubai, I understand the importance of offering my patients both safety and natural-looking results, while respecting the cultural norms of confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism that are highly valued in the United Arab Emirates.

The cervico-facial lift, also referred to as a face and neck lift, is a surgical procedure designed to correct sagging skin and tissues of the face and neck. With time, factors such as aging, sun exposure, lifestyle, and genetic predisposition contribute to skin laxity, the appearance of jowls, deep wrinkles, and a loss of definition in the jawline and neck.

The principle of the cervico-facial lift is to reposition the underlying muscles (SMAS – Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) and to remove excess skin, while preserving the natural expression of the face. Unlike non-surgical treatments such as fillers or skin tightening with radiofrequency, a surgical face and neck lift offers long-lasting results, often lasting 8 to 12 years depending on lifestyle and skin type.

In Dubai, many patients—both women and men—seek a rejuvenated appearance that remains harmonious and discreet. The goal is not to transform the face but to restore its youthful balance, respecting each patient’s natural features and cultural preferences.

Before the Procedure :

Before performing a cervico-facial lift, a comprehensive medical consultation is essential. As your surgeon, I will evaluate your medical history, current health, and aesthetic expectations. During this consultation, photographs are taken to assist in planning the surgery and to help visualize the expected outcome.

Preoperative steps include:

  • Medical evaluation: Blood tests and sometimes additional investigations are prescribed to ensure you are fit for surgery.
  • Stopping smoking: Patients are advised to stop smoking at least one month before and after the procedure, as tobacco can impair healing.
  • Medication review: Certain medications, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, should be avoided prior to surgery to reduce bleeding risks.
  • Preparation of the skin: Depending on your skin type, dermatological treatments may be recommended to optimize healing.

It is also important to discuss your expectations with clarity. In Dubai, patients often request results that are natural and conservative, avoiding an artificial or “operated” look. The consultation phase is the moment to ensure alignment between your wishes and what surgery can realistically provide.

The Procedure :

A cervico-facial lift is performed in an accredited surgical clinic under general anesthesia or, in some cases, local anesthesia with sedation. The procedure usually lasts between two to four hours, depending on the complexity and whether it is combined with other treatments such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or liposuction of the neck.

The surgical technique involves:

  1. Incisions: Discreetly hidden around the ear and sometimes in the hairline, ensuring scars are minimally visible.
  2. Muscle repositioning: The underlying muscular plane (SMAS) is tightened to restore firmness to the face and neck.
  3. Skin redraping: Excess skin is removed carefully, ensuring a natural, smooth contour.
  4. Closing the incisions: Fine sutures are used to minimize scarring.

The surgery focuses not only on tightening but also on restoring youthful proportions to the lower face and neck. In my practice in Dubai, I place great emphasis on respecting ethnic characteristics and achieving results that integrate seamlessly with the patient’s natural identity.

After the Procedure :

Immediately after surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery room before returning home the same day or after a short hospital stay, depending on individual needs.

  • Dressings and drains: A light dressing may be applied, and sometimes small drains are used for 24 to 48 hours to prevent fluid accumulation.
  • Swelling and bruising: These are common in the first two weeks and gradually resolve.
  • Discomfort: Patients may feel tightness or mild pain, which is managed effectively with prescribed medication.
  • Stitches: Sutures are removed within 7 to 10 days.

Most patients can return to light daily activities within 10 to 14 days, but complete recovery—including resuming sports or intense activities—may take 4 to 6 weeks.

Postoperative care is tailored to ensure discretion and comfort. In Dubai, many patients value minimal downtime, so I provide a detailed plan to help manage recovery discreetly and efficiently.

Results and Follow-up :

The final results of a cervico-facial lift appear gradually, once swelling has subsided and tissues have settled. Typically, patients observe:

  • A sharper jawline with reduced jowls.
  • A smoother, more youthful neck.
  • Improved harmony between the lower face and neckline.
  • A rested, refreshed facial expression without appearing “operated.”

Follow-up is crucial for ensuring optimal healing and long-lasting results:

  • Regular consultations: At one week, one month, three months, six months, and one year post-surgery.
  • Scar care: Use of medical creams and sun protection to ensure scars remain nearly invisible.
  • Lifestyle advice: Maintaining results through a healthy lifestyle, sun protection, and complementary aesthetic treatments such as skin boosters or laser resurfacing.

A cervico-facial lift in Dubai is not only about restoring youth but also about offering patients confidence, balance, and harmony in line with cultural values where elegance and discretion are highly appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cervico-Facial Lift in Dubai

Who is a good candidate for a cervico-facial lift?

Ideal candidates are men and women over 40 with sagging skin in the face and neck, who wish for long-term rejuvenation and are in good overall health.

How long do the results last?

On average, results last between 8 and 12 years. Aging continues naturally, but the patient will always look younger than if they had not undergone the procedure.

Are the scars visible after a cervico-facial lift?

No. Incisions are hidden around the ears and hairline. With proper postoperative care and sun protection, scars fade significantly and become barely perceptible.

What is the recovery time for a cervico-facial lift in Dubai?

Most patients resume professional activities within two weeks. Full recovery, including a return to sports or intense activities, generally takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Can a cervico-facial lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Many patients combine it with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), fat transfer, or skin resurfacing to achieve a more complete rejuvenation of the face.

Is the cervico-facial lift painful?

Discomfort is usually mild and easily controlled with prescribed pain medication. Patients more often describe a sensation of tightness rather than significant pain.

When can I fly after having a cervico-facial lift in Dubai?

It is recommended to wait at least 2 weeks before taking a long flight to allow swelling to decrease and to reduce the risk of complications. Always confirm with your surgeon.