SMAS Facelift & Deep Plane Facelift for Natural, Long-Lasting Rejuvenation
Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
Over time, the face naturally loses volume, skin elasticity decreases, and deeper structures begin to sag. You may notice:
- Loose skin along the jawline (“jowls”)
- Deep nasolabial folds
- A tired or aged appearance despite feeling youthful
A facelift is not about changing who you are — it’s about restoring a more refreshed, natural version of your face.
At myMedical Prague, we help patients from the UK, Ireland, Germany and beyond undergo advanced facelift procedures performed by experienced plastic surgeons in modern private clinics—combining high-quality care with excellent value.
Rediscover a fresher, more youthful version of yourself
What is the aim of a facelift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is designed to:
- Lift and reposition sagging facial tissues
- Restore definition to the jawline and neck
- Reduce deep folds and wrinkles
- Create a natural, rejuvenated appearance
Modern techniques focus on deeper anatomical layers—not just tightening the skin—ensuring results that look natural, not “pulled” or artificial.
Who is a suitable candidate for a facelift?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Are typically between 40–70 years old
- Notice sagging in the lower face or neck
- Have good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about results
A facelift is especially suitable if non-surgical treatments (like fillers or skin tightening) are no longer providing sufficient improvement.
Every patient is different — during your consultation, the surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your facial structure and goals.
Facelift techniques explained: SMAS vs Deep Plane
Understanding the difference between techniques is key to choosing the right procedure.
SMAS Facelift
The SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) facelift:
- Targets the deeper structural layer beneath the skin
- Lifts and repositions facial tissues
- Provides natural-looking, long-lasting results
Best suited for:
- Moderate signs of ageing
- Patients seeking a balanced improvement with reliable recovery
Deep Plane Facelift
The deep plane facelift is a more advanced technique:
- Releases and repositions deeper facial ligaments
- Lifts the midface and cheeks more effectively
- Avoids tension on the skin, creating very natural results
Best suited for:
- More advanced ageing
- Patients seeking the most natural and long-lasting rejuvenation
Mini Facelift (in selected cases)
A less invasive option:
- Focuses on early sagging
- Shorter recovery time
However, it offers more limited and shorter-lasting results compared to SMAS or deep plane techniques.
“A well-performed facelift should never look like surgery. The goal is to restore natural facial harmony by repositioning deeper structures—not simply tightening the skin. With advanced techniques such as the deep plane facelift, we can achieve results that are both very natural and long-lasting, often for many years.”
— Dr. Radek Lhotsky
How is a facelift performed?
Facelift surgery is mostly performed under general anaesthesia.
- Incisions are typically placed discreetly around the ears and hairline
- The underlying tissues are lifted and repositioned
- Excess skin is carefully removed
- The skin is redraped without tension
Resorbable stitches are used, which means they dissolve naturally and do not need to be removed.
Depending on the technique used, the surgery usually takes 2–4 hours.
The goal is always a natural result—never an over-tightened or artificial look.
Combination procedures for optimal results
A facelift is often combined with other procedures to achieve a harmonious rejuvenation:
- Neck lift – improves sagging skin and muscle bands in the neck
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) – refreshes tired-looking eyes
- Fat grafting – restores lost facial volume using your own fat
Combining procedures can enhance overall results and ensure the face looks balanced and naturally rejuvenated.
Before & After philosophy: Natural, not obvious
At myMedical Prague, the goal is not to make you look “different”—but to help you look like a younger, well-rested version of yourself.
Key principles:
- Preserve your natural facial expressions
- Avoid over-tightening
- Focus on harmony and proportion
- Achieve subtle, elegant rejuvenation
The best facelift is one that others don’t notice—they simply see that you look refreshed.
Stay in Prague & surgical journey
We make your treatment abroad simple, structured, and safe.
Typical timeline:
- Day 1: Arrival in Prague, overnight stay at your hotel
- Day 2: Personal consultation with the surgeon, overnight stay at your hotel
- Day 3: Surgery and overnight stay at the clinic
- Day 4: Discharge and return to your home country
This carefully planned schedule allows for proper preparation, safe surgery, and immediate post-operative monitoring.
Recovery and healing after a facelift
Recovery is an important part of your journey.
What to expect:
- Swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks
- Mild to moderate discomfort (well controlled with medication)
- Wearing a special supportive bandage around the head for approximately 2 weeks (24/7)
- Gradual return to normal activities after about 10–14 days
Because resorbable stitches are used, there is no need for stitch removal, allowing you to recover comfortably at home after returning from Prague.
Final results develop gradually over several weeks as swelling subsides.
Longevity of facelift results
One of the main advantages of surgical facelift techniques is their durability.
- Results typically last 8–12 years, depending on technique and lifestyle
- The ageing process continues, but from a more youthful baseline
- Deep plane facelifts often provide the longest-lasting results
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and good skincare can further prolong your results.
Risks and safety
As with any surgical procedure, a facelift carries some risks, including:
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporary numbness
- Infection (rare)
- Scarring (usually minimal and well hidden)
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon and following post-operative instructions significantly reduces these risks.
At myMedical Prague, we work only with trusted, highly qualified surgeons and modern accredited clinics to ensure the highest standards of safety.
Facelift price in Prague
The cost of a facelift depends on:
- The technique used (SMAS, deep plane, combination procedures)
- Complexity of the surgery
- Individual patient needs
What is typically included:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anaesthesia
- Clinic stay
- Post-operative care
Compared to the UK or Ireland, patients benefit from significant cost savings—without compromising on quality or safety.
A personalised quote will be provided after your consultation.
Trusted medical references
This information is based on internationally recognized medical authorities in plastic surgery, including:
- The Aesthetic Society – comprehensive information on facelift procedures and outcomes
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons – detailed guidance on facelift surgery, recovery, and expectations
Why choose myMedical Prague?
We specialise in helping international patients access high-quality cosmetic surgery with confidence.
With us, you benefit from:
- Experienced, carefully selected plastic surgeons
- Modern private clinics in central Prague
- Transparent communication in English
- Personalised care and coordination
- Excellent value compared to Western Europe
We guide you through every step—from your first enquiry to your safe return home.
Your journey to a refreshed, natural look starts here
Choosing a facelift is a personal decision—and having the right information is essential.
We invite you to book a no-obligation consultation, where we will:
- Assess your needs
- Explain suitable techniques
- Answer all your questions
- Provide a personalised treatment plan
Contact myMedical Prague today or book a free online consultation, to take the first step towards a more confident, refreshed version of yourself.