Face · Gurugram
Facelift
A facelift repositions tissue that has descended. It does not change skin quality, and understanding that distinction is what separates a satisfied patient from a disappointed one.
01 · Understanding the concern
Why patients consider this
Facial ageing is mostly a matter of descent and volume loss rather than excess skin. The jawline softens, the mid-face flattens, the folds either side of the mouth deepen, and the neck loses definition. Non-surgical treatments manage the early stages well. At a certain point they stop being enough, and continuing to add volume produces a heavier face rather than a younger one.
02 · The procedure
What facelift involves
Modern facelift surgery works on the SMAS layer beneath the skin — the fibrous layer that carries the descended tissue — rather than pulling skin tight. The layer is repositioned upward and backward along its natural vectors, excess skin is then trimmed without tension, and incisions are placed around the ear where they are least visible. Neck work is frequently included, since the jawline and neck are one continuous problem.
03 · Candidacy
Who may be considered
This is general guidance rather than a diagnosis. Suitability is decided by examination.
- Descent of the mid-face, jawline or neck that non-surgical treatment no longer addresses
- Reasonable skin quality and general health
- Non-smokers, or able to stop for the period advised, since smoking materially affects skin flap healing
- Realistic expectations about a natural rather than dramatic change
- Able to take two to three weeks of recovery
What it can address
Concerns it is used for
- Jawline definition and jowling
- Mid-face descent
- Nasolabial and marionette folds, partially
- Neck laxity and banding, where neck work is included
- Overall facial proportion at rest
04 · Planning
Why the planning matters more than the technique
A facelift addresses position. It does not improve skin texture, pigmentation or fine lines, which need resurfacing or other skin treatment, and it does not restore lost volume, which may need fat transfer. A plan that treats only one of the three and expects the result of all three is the commonest reason for disappointment.
05 · How it works
Step by step
- 01
Assessment
Facial analysis of descent, volume and skin quality, considered separately.
- 02
Planning
Incision design and vectors planned, along with any volume or skin component.
- 03
Elevation
Skin elevated and the SMAS layer accessed.
- 04
Repositioning
The deeper layer is repositioned and secured along planned vectors.
- 05
Skin redraping
Skin redraped without tension and excess trimmed.
- 06
Closure and dressing
Closure around the ear, dressing applied, reviews scheduled.
06 · The procedure journey
Before, during and after
Before
Full medical assessment, investigations, stopping smoking for the period advised, and arrangements for two to three weeks with limited social exposure.
During
General anaesthetic. Usually an overnight stay.
After
Swelling, bruising and tightness, with dressings for the first days and restricted neck movement.
07 · Recovery
What recovery generally involves
Bruising and swelling are significant in the first two weeks. Most people are socially presentable at around three weeks, though residual swelling and numbness persist for longer. Sensation around the ears and cheeks takes months to normalise. Scars mature over a year. Exercise is restricted for several weeks.
Recovery times are general ranges. Your own timeline depends on the extent of treatment, your health and your work, and is given at consultation.
- Sleep elevated for the first two weeks
- No heavy lifting or exercise until cleared
- Avoid sun and heat on the healing face
- Expect asymmetric swelling; it evens out
- Hair colouring and chemical treatment only once cleared
08 · Outcomes
What to expect from the result
A repositioned, better-defined lower face and neck, aiming for a rested rather than altered appearance. Ageing continues afterwards. Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
09 · Safety
Risks and considerations
Risks include haematoma, which is the most common early complication, infection, skin flap healing problems particularly in smokers, temporary or rarely permanent facial nerve weakness, altered sensation, hair loss around incisions, and scarring. These are discussed individually at consultation.
No procedure is risk-free. A full, individual discussion of risk forms part of consent and takes place before any decision is made.
10 · The surgeon
Why Dr. Swikriti Raniwala
The surgeon who assesses you performs the procedure and reviews you afterwards. Surgical work takes place in accredited surgical facilities with board-certified anaesthesiologists, and you leave the consultation with the plan and the costs in writing.
In Gurugram
Facelift is performed at SWI Infinity in Gurugram, with patients travelling from across Gurugram and Delhi NCR, including Golf Course Road, Sushant Lok, the DLF Phases and the surrounding sectors. If you are travelling from further afield, say so when booking so consultation and follow-up can be scheduled together.
Dr. Swikriti Raniwala
Questions patients ask
Facelift: common questions
Will a facelift make me look different?
The aim is to look like yourself at an earlier stage rather than like someone else. That depends heavily on technique and restraint.
Does a facelift treat skin texture?
No. Texture, pigmentation and fine lines need skin treatment. Surgery addresses position.
How long do results last?
A facelift resets position; ageing then continues from the new baseline. Longevity varies with skin quality, genetics and lifestyle.
Is a thread lift an alternative?
It is a different, lesser intervention with a shorter effect. Whether it is appropriate depends on the degree of descent.
Where are the scars?
Around the ear, following natural creases and hairline, positioned to be inconspicuous once healed.
How long before I can go back to work?
Commonly around three weeks for work with social exposure, though this varies with swelling and the extent of surgery.
Consultation
Discuss facelift
Consultations are with Dr. Raniwala. You will leave with a written plan, including the alternatives considered and the costs involved.
Or WhatsApp the clinic on +91 7017193675 · info@swiinfinity.com
