Quick Answer:A face lift restores tightness and shape to the face by lifting the cheeks and jawline, addressing the drooping and sagging that comes as skin loses elasticity with age. A neck lift treats age-related neck lines and folds by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the skin, and is often performed together with a face lift. Both aim to give the face a firmer, more rested appearance rather than to change a person’s features.A face lift tightens and reshapes sagging skin on the cheeks and jawline, while a neck lift removes excess skin and fat and tightens the neck; the two are often done together. A full face lift is more extensive and done under general anaesthesia, and a mini face lift makes smaller corrections under local anaesthesia. Dr Ong Wei Chen performs face and neck lift surgery at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore.
What is the difference between a full and a mini face lift?
“A face lift repositions tissue that has descended with age — it isn’t about pulling skin tight. Matching a full or mini lift to how much has actually changed is what keeps the result natural.” — Dr Ong Wei Chen, Senior Consultant Plastic Surgeon
A full face lift is more extensive and a mini face lift makes smaller, targeted corrections, and the right choice depends on how advanced the signs of ageing are:
- Full face lift — addresses the cheeks, midface, lower face, jowls and jawline; more extensive, usually under general anaesthesia.
- Mini face lift — targets a limited area, such as the jawline (lower face lift) or the brow and upper cheek (upper face lift); fewer and smaller incisions.
- A mini face lift suits people with less prominent signs of facial ageing, or who prefer a less extensive procedure with a shorter recovery.
What does a face or neck lift procedure involve?
A face or neck lift begins with a consultation where Dr Ong Wei Chen examines your face and discusses the options. A full face lift is usually performed under general anaesthesia; bruising and swelling are expected for about one to two weeks, most people return to work after around four weeks, and a compression garment supports recovery. A mini face lift can be done under local anaesthesia, so you can return home the same day, with swelling limited to the treated area and a shorter recovery.
How long does recovery from a face lift take?
Bruising and swelling after a face lift usually last around one to two weeks, with most settling by about four weeks. The final result typically begins to show within one to three months, and full healing is expected by around four to six months. Resting the face and avoiding strenuous activity supports healing, and the clinic provides pain relief and wound-care guidance. Dr Ong Wei Chen reviews your recovery at follow-up appointments at Gleneagles Medical Centre.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is a suitable candidate for a face or neck lift in Singapore?
People who notice loose, sagging skin around the face and neck may be suitable for a face or neck lift. Good candidates are in reasonable health, do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery, and have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. A consultation and examination determine suitability. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses each patient at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, before advising.
Will a face lift leave visible scars?
Some scarring is expected because incisions are needed to reshape the face and neck, but they are placed within the natural folds and lines of the skin, and sometimes within the hairline, so they are well concealed. Scars fade as the skin heals, and the clinic advises on wound care and scar management. Dr Ong Wei Chen explains where incisions will be placed before surgery.
How should I prepare for face lift surgery?
You may need to stop blood-thinning medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen and certain supplements before surgery, so tell the surgeon what you take. Smoking and other nicotine should be stopped four to six weeks beforehand, as nicotine hinders healing. If you will have general anaesthesia, you should fast from food and liquids for six hours before the procedure. Dr Ong Wei Chen gives specific pre-operative instructions at consultation.
Can a face or neck lift be claimed under Medisave or insurance in Singapore?
Face and neck lifts are usually performed for cosmetic reasons and are generally not claimable. Where the surgery is done for a medical reason, the clinic can assist with direct insurance e-filing and Medisave claims. Because coverage depends on the indication and your policy, confirm the details with your insurer or WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery before surgery.
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Dr Ong is a fully accredited Singapore plastic surgeon. She currently practices at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at Gleneagles Medical Centre, serving patients in all Parkway hospitals and Mount Alvernia Hospital. Under the competent and experienced hands of one of the best female plastic surgeons in Singapore, you can be assured of quality care and treatment.
