Facelifts are among the most effective procedures to rejuvenate the face and reverse signs of aging. However, choosing the right facelift technique — tailored to your facial structure, age, and expectations — is essential to achieving natural, long-lasting results.
As a leading destination for cosmetic surgery, Thailand offers advanced facelift techniques performed by highly skilled surgeons. But how do you know which facelift is right for you? Here’s an expert guide to help you make an informed decision.

Why Consider a Facelift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is designed to address:
- Sagging skin on the cheeks and jawline
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Jowls and loose neck skin
- Loss of facial volume and definition

Modern facelifts aim for natural enhancement, avoiding the overly tight or “windblown” appearance of older techniques.
Types of Facelift Techniques
1. Mini Facelift
Best for early signs of aging. It focuses on lifting sagging skin in the lower face and jawline with smaller incisions and shorter recovery time. Suitable for patients in their 40s to early 50s.
2. SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) Facelift
SMAS facelift targets deeper facial tissues, not just the skin. Repositions muscle and fat layers to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Ideal for moderate to advanced aging signs.
3. Deep Plane Facelift
The most advanced technique, going below the SMAS layer to release and reposition deep tissues. Offers the most natural and long-lasting results, especially for patients with significant sagging and volume loss.
4. Neck Lift (often combined with facelift)
Addresses loose neck skin, platysmal bands, and double chin. Provides a more defined jawline and neck contour.
5. Thread Lift (Non-Surgical Option)
Uses dissolvable threads to lift sagging skin. Suitable for mild sagging but temporary compared to surgical options.

How to Choose the Right Facelift for You
1. Assess the Degree of Aging
- Mild sagging: Mini facelift or thread lift.
- Moderate sagging: SMAS facelift.
- Severe sagging: Deep plane facelift with possible neck lift.

2. Consider Longevity of Results
- Deep plane offer results that last 10–15 years.
- SMAS facelifts usually last 5-10 years.
- Mini facelifts typically last 5–7 years.

3. Understand the Downtime
- Mini facelifts: Shorter recovery, less swelling.
- Deep plane: Longer recovery but superior results.

4. Choose a Specialist Facial Plastic Surgeon
Not all surgeons perform advanced facelift techniques like the deep plane facelift. Selecting a board-certified facial plastic surgeon ensures expertise in facial anatomy, which is critical for safety and natural results.

Dr. Phuwit Kongchayanan, a facial plastic surgeon at ALINE Clinic, emphasizes:
“Facelifts are not one-size-fits-all. Each patient needs a customized approach based on their unique anatomy and aging pattern. Choosing the right technique — and the right surgeon — is key to achieving harmonious, natural-looking rejuvenation.”

Common Myths About Facelifts
“Facelifts always look fake.”
- Modern facelifts aim for subtlety and natural results, avoiding the pulled look of older methods.
“I’m too young for a facelift.”
- Some patients in their 40s or early 50s benefit from a mini facelift to address early sagging and prevent deeper aging signs.
“Non-surgical options are just as good.”
- Non-surgical treatments (e.g., threads, fillers) can delay surgery but cannot replace the comprehensive lifting achieved with a proper facelift.

Why Thailand?
Thailand is renowned for:
1.Highly skilled surgeons specializing in facial surgery
2.International standards of safety and accredited surgical centers
3.Cost-effective solutions without compromising quality

Final Advice from Dr. Phuwit
Choosing a facelift is a personal decision that should be based on individual anatomy, aging, and goals. A thorough consultation with an experienced facial plastic surgeon is crucial to designing the right treatment plan — whether it’s a mini facelift, deep plane facelift, or a combination procedure.

For more expert insights and to explore facelift options tailored to you, visit ALINE Clinic.

Articles By Dr. Phuwit Kongchayanan

Articles By Dr. Phuwit Kongchayanan

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Choosing the Right Facelift in Thailand: An Expert Guide