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Rhytidectomy (Facelift) in Manchester & Liverpool

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure used to address visible signs of ageing by tightening facial tissues and removing excess skin. The goal is to support a smoother and more balanced facial contour. Consultations are available in Manchester and Liverpool to assess individual suitability and discuss treatment options.

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Rhytidectomy (Facelift) Prices

The cost of facelift surgery depends on the technique used (mini, full, or combined with a neck lift), the complexity of your surgery, and your aftercare needs. A personalised quotation is provided following consultation.

You can read more about typical UK cost ranges in our blog: How much does a full facelift cost in the UK?

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Key Considerations:

Facelift (rhytidectomy) surgery may be considered by individuals seeking to address signs of facial ageing, such as skin laxity or sagging. Treatment approaches vary depending on individual facial structure and are discussed during consultation.

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Typical Recovery Timeline for Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery

The following recovery milestones are general estimates and may vary between individuals. Full recovery guidance will be provided during consultation and after surgery.

  • 3 – 4 Hours Surgery Duration Approximately
  • 0 – 1 Days Hospital Stay (may vary depending on individual recovery)
  • 2 – 3 Weeks Before Driving Usually (subject to medical clearance)
  • 3 – 4 Weeks Before Strenuous Exercise (subject to surgeon advice)

These timeframes are general guidelines. Recovery varies between individuals, and all advice will be tailored during your aftercare appointments.

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Surgeon El Gawad
Risks and Considerations for Facelift Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, facelift surgery (rhytidectomy) carries potential risks and side effects. It’s important that you are fully informed before deciding whether this treatment is suitable for you.

Possible risks may include:

  • Swelling, bruising or temporary discomfort
  • Bleeding or infection
  • Scarring
  • Changes in skin sensation (such as numbness or tingling)
  • Skin irregularities or asymmetry
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Hair loss around the incision site
  • The possibility of revision surgery

The likelihood and severity of risks can vary depending on the individual’s health, skin quality, and the surgical technique used. During your consultation, a detailed discussion will take place to explain the potential risks, expected outcomes, and recovery process.

Facelift procedures are only offered following a full clinical consultation and assessment, and are undertaken only where considered appropriate and safe for the individual.

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Plastic-and-cosmetic-surgeon-in-Manchester-Ahmed-Abdel-Gawad

Ahmed Abd El Gawad MSc, MD, MRCS, FEBOPRAS, FRCS Plast

Why Choose Mr. El Gawad for Cosmetic Surgery in Manchester and Liverpool?

Mr. El Gawad is a GMC-registered Consultant Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of experience in both NHS and private healthcare settings. He has worked as a plastic surgeon at the Royal Liverpool University Teaching Hospital and currently provides consultations and procedures at private hospitals across the UK and in Cairo.

He is listed on the General Medical Council’s specialist register for Plastic Surgery and holds membership with several leading professional bodies, including:

  • The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
  • The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
  • The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd)
  • The European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (EBOPRAS)

All procedures are subject to a full clinical consultation to assess suitability. Treatment is only offered where clinically appropriate.

Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery in Manchester

Facelift procedures are available at our Manchester clinic, located at Pall Mall Court, 61 King Street, M2 4PD. This doctor-led facility provides a professional, CQC-registered environment for surgical consultations and procedures.

Mr. El Gawad, a GMC-registered Consultant Plastic Surgeon, offers facelift surgery tailored to individual clinical assessments. This procedure may be recommended to address changes in facial skin and soft tissue associated with ageing. From initial consultation to postoperative care, treatment is planned with a focus on patient safety, informed decision-making, and appropriate clinical outcomes.

Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery in Liverpool (Newton-le-Willows)

Facelift surgery is available at our Newton-le-Willows clinic near Liverpool, located at 1 Belvedere Road, WA12 0JJ. This facility operates within a CQC-registered private hospital and provides a professional setting for consultations and procedures.

Mr. El Gawad, a GMC-registered Consultant Plastic Surgeon, offers facelift treatments based on clinical assessment and individual patient needs. Facelift surgery may be considered to address changes in facial structure and skin associated with ageing. Treatment planning and aftercare are tailored to support patient safety and clinical outcomes.

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Image shows the reception area at our Manchester consultation location. This image does not represent a treatment or outcome.

Important Information About Facelift Surgery

This section provides general information about facelift (rhytidectomy) procedures, including frequently asked questions, specific risks, and key considerations. Individual suitability and treatment plans are discussed in full during consultation and clinical assessment.

What to Expect – Facelift FAQs

This section answers common questions about facelift (rhytidectomy) procedures. While details can vary based on individual circumstances, the following information may help you understand what to expect. Full guidance will be provided during your consultation, where your goals, health, and surgical options will be discussed in detail.

Facelift techniques can vary depending on your anatomy, concerns, and desired outcome.

  • Mini Facelift: A less invasive approach often suited to those with mild to moderate signs of ageing, particularly around the mid-face or jawline. It typically involves shorter recovery time but offers more limited results.
  • Full Facelift: A more comprehensive technique designed for individuals with more advanced facial ageing. This procedure can address multiple areas and may result in more significant contour changes.
  • Neck Lift: In some cases, a neck lift may be recommended alongside a facelift to target signs of ageing in the neck area, such as loose skin or muscle banding.

Treatment decisions are always made following a full clinical assessment.

There is no specific upper age limit for facelift surgery. More important than age is your general health and medical history. Many individuals in their 70s and beyond have safely undergone facelift procedures, provided there are no health conditions that would make surgery unsafe.

Facelift surgery is generally performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you will be fully asleep during the procedure. You’ll be advised not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand, and pre-operative instructions will be discussed in advance.

While the exact technique may vary, the procedure typically includes the following steps:

  • Incisions are made near the temples, continuing around the ears.
  • Additional incisions may be made under the chin if the jawline is being treated.
  • Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned.
  • Fat and tissue may be redistributed or added to restore volume.
  • Stitches are used to secure the new contours.
  • Dressings or bandages are applied to help reduce swelling and support healing.

All aspects of the procedure will be tailored to your individual needs.

The operation usually takes two to three hours, followed by an overnight hospital stay. You’ll need someone to drive you home and ideally stay with you during the first 24 hours. Pain relief will be provided to manage any post-operative discomfort.

  • Bruising may be present for two weeks or more.
  • Avoid getting dressings wet for the first few days.
  • Steer clear of saunas, massages, or heavy physical activity for a few weeks.
  • Elevating your head while resting may help reduce swelling.

Your recovery will be discussed in more detail during your consultation.

Initial swelling and bruising typically improve within a few weeks, but final results may take 6 to 9 months to fully settle. The outcome is designed to restore a more refreshed and youthful appearance while maintaining your natural facial identity.

You’ll usually be advised to wait 10 to 14 days before applying makeup post-surgery. This allows the skin to heal and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.

In most cases, no — facelift surgery is intended to enhance your existing appearance rather than create a dramatically different look. If you’ve undergone minor cosmetic procedures like a facelift, you typically do not need to update your legal photo identification. In cases of significant facial reconstruction, however, updates may be required.

Risks Associated with Facelift Surgery

Facelift surgery, like all surgical procedures, carries potential risks and complications. These will be fully discussed with you during your consultation, where your individual medical history and goals will be taken into consideration.

Some of the risks that can be associated with facelift procedures include:

  • Bleeding: This can occur in the initial hours or days following surgery and, in some cases, may require further treatment.
  • Infection: Although rare, infection is possible in the early post-operative period and may require antibiotics.
  • Delayed Wound Healing: Some individuals may experience wound breakdown, often around the ears. This may require additional dressings or further treatment and can affect the appearance of scars.
  • Skin Loss: Occasionally, small areas of skin may not heal as expected. This often resolves over time but may need further intervention.
  • Changes in Sensation: Temporary numbness or altered feeling around the surgical area is common and typically improves over time, although in some cases it may persist.
  • Nerve Injury: Damage to facial nerves is uncommon but can affect movement or expression, such as eyebrow positioning. This may improve gradually or require additional treatment.
  • Scarring: All surgery leaves scars. These are usually discreet, but the final appearance varies between individuals. Some scars may appear raised or red for some time.

It’s important to remember that risks vary depending on personal health, anatomy, and lifestyle. Any concerns will be carefully addressed during your consultation to ensure you are fully informed before deciding whether to proceed.

Useful Links

Before deciding whether to proceed with cosmetic surgery, it’s important to access independent, professional guidance. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) offers a range of resources designed to help patients make informed, safe decisions about treatment options, risks, and choosing a qualified surgeon. These materials are not a substitute for clinical advice but can support conversations during your consultation.

We recommend reviewing the following resources as part of your decision-making process:

These resources are provided to support your journey and ensure you feel informed and confident when discussing your treatment options.

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