Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery · Face

Your look, 10 years younger.

Without a "pulled" appearance. Tissue repositioning using modern SMAS and deep plane techniques. A facelift is not just a "skin lift" - modern techniques reposition the deeper tissues for a natural result.

What it is

What is a facelift?

A facelift is a complex procedure that corrects signs of ageing in:

  • The cheeks (sagging tissue)
  • The jawline (jowls)
  • The lower neck (often combined)
  • Deep nasolabial folds

Modern techniques: SMAS lift - the modern standard; deep plane - a more natural, longer-lasting result; mini-facelift - for younger patients; mid-face lift - focused on the cheeks. It can be combined with blepharoplasty, a brow lift, a neck lift or fat transfer.

How it is performed

The steps of the procedure.

01

Consultation & personal plan

A detailed analysis of the face from 5 angles. Discussion of the technique (SMAS vs. deep plane). Optional simulation.

02

Full anaesthesia

A procedure under full anaesthesia, administered by the medical anaesthetist.

03

The procedure

Incisions in concealed areas (around the ears, under the hairline). Repositioning of the SMAS/deep plane. Removal of excess skin. Duration: 3-5 hours.

04

Post-operative care

1-2 nights in the clinic. Compresses and dressing around the face. Drains fitted for 1-2 days.

Technical details

Technical information.

Duration 3-5 hours
Anaesthesia Full
Clinic stay 1-2 nights in the clinic
Recommended stay in Tirana 10-14 days
Total recovery 6-12 months for the final look
Recovery

Recovery timeline.

Week 1

Swelling and bruising around the face. Moderate pain. Drains in place. Compression dressing. Rest only.

Weeks 2-3

Swelling reduces. Sutures removed on days 7-10. Return to sedentary work. Bruising may still be visible.

Month 1

A good public appearance. Internal swelling still present. Light activity.

Month 3+

The shape starts to settle. Light sport.

Final result

6-12 months. Results last 10-15 years with good care.

The ideal candidate

Who is the ideal candidate?

Good candidates

  • Aged 50-70
  • Visible signs of ageing in the face/neck
  • Good general health
  • Realistic expectations

This procedure is not for

  • Under 40 (a mini-facelift may be discussed)
  • Active smokers
  • Serious vascular disease
  • BMI over 30

The final assessment is made at the pre-operative consultation.

Medical transparency

Risks & contraindications.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks:

  • Haematoma (1-5% - requires secondary drainage)
  • Skin issues around the incision (in smokers)
  • Facial nerve injury (rare, usually temporary)
  • Mild asymmetry
  • Visible scarring in sensitive skin
  • Venous thrombosis (reduced by moving after surgery)

Any specific risk is discussed at the pre-operative consultation. Written informed consent is required.

Price

A personalised quote.

Personalised quote after the consultation

The cost depends on the type of procedure, the complexity of the case, the type of anaesthesia, the necessary tests and the length of your stay. The final price is provided after the free consultation.

Prices are shown in 3 currencies (ALL / EUR / GBP), managed from the panel, with no automatic conversion.

Packages that include this procedure

COMPLETE

SMAS facelift + 10 days’ accommodation

VIP

Deep plane facelift + blepharoplasty + neck lift + 14 days + free companion

Compare the packages in detail
The specialist

The team behind the procedure.

The procedure is carried out by our dedicated plastic and aesthetic surgery team.

All our doctors
Before / After

Before / after gallery.

Real photographs, shared with consent. During the consultation, the specialist shows you comparable cases.

Hospital backing

Within Spitali Amavita.

The procedure is carried out within Spitali Amavita - 15+ years of heritage, a hospital operating theatre, a medical anaesthetist, and post-operative assistance available around the clock as needed. Not a standalone aesthetic clinic.

Frequently asked questions

The most frequent questions.

SMAS or deep plane?+
Deep plane is the more modern technique - a more natural, longer-lasting result, but at a higher cost.
How long does the result last?+
10-15 years with good care (sun protection, a healthy lifestyle).
Will I look "done"?+
Not with modern techniques. SMAS and deep plane give a natural look, not the "wind tunnel" look of the 1990s.
Can it be combined with other procedures?+
Yes - blepharoplasty, neck lift, brow lift and fat transfer are the most common combinations.
Will I look different?+
No, just younger. The goal is "you, 10 years ago".
Why does it require 10+ days in Tirana?+
Swelling and bruising are visible. Returning in public before 10 days would be uncomfortable. Plus 2 scheduled check-ups.

The first step: a free consultation.

Book a free online consultation with our surgeons. Or call us: +355 69 336 0681