Facelift in Seoul, Korea
A deep plane facelift lifts the deep SMAS layer and releases the facial retaining ligaments (zygomatic and masseteric) so the tissues can be repositioned vertically, rather than simply pulling the skin. It corrects jowls, deep nasolabial folds and a lost jawline with fine, well-hidden scars and a natural expression.
- Procedure time
- About 3–4 hours
- Anesthesia
- IV sedation or general anesthesia
- Time in Seoul
- 10–14 days in Seoul
- Recovery
- Stitches out on day 7–10
Who is Facelift for?
- Jowls, deep nasolabial folds and a blurred jawline, typically in your 50s–70s
- Thread or device lifts no longer give enough improvement
- You want a natural, long-lasting result without a pulled look or distorted earlobes
- You can stay in Seoul for about 10–14 days
How Facelift works
As we age, the SMAS and fat pads slide down while retaining ligaments act as anchors that hold the tissue in folds. A skin-only lift pulls the surface tight but leaves these structures in place, which can look stretched and relapse.
In a deep plane facelift the dissection goes beneath the SMAS and the ligaments are released, so the midface and jowls move upward as one unit. Because the skin is not under tension, scars around the ear heal finely and the earlobe keeps its natural shape.
A neck lift, fat grafting or stem cell-enriched fat can be added in the same operation to restore volume lost with age.
Our approach to Facelift
Ligament release
Zygomatic and masseteric ligaments are released so tissue moves freely upward.
Vertical vector
Tissue is lifted vertically for a natural, unpulled look.
Tension-free closure
Skin is closed without tension to keep scars fine and earlobes natural.
Facelift: step by step
- Facial analysisSagging depth, ligament tightness and skin quality are assessed.
- IncisionIncisions run around the ear and into the hairline.
- Deep plane dissectionThe SMAS is lifted and ligaments released, then fixed vertically.
- Closure and careSkin is closed without tension; a drain and compression may be used for 1–2 days.
Facelift techniques compared
| Deep plane facelift | Mini facelift | Thread lift | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Layer treated | Below the SMAS plus ligaments | SMAS and skin (limited) | Subcutaneous tissue |
| Incision | Around the ear (may include scalp) | Short, in front of the ear | None |
| Best for | Moderate to severe sagging | Moderate lower-face sagging | Early to moderate laxity |
| Recovery | 2–3 weeks | About 1–2 weeks | A few days |
Risks and side effects of Facelift
- Swelling and bruisingPeaks in the first 3 days and mostly settles within 2–3 weeks.
- Nerve irritationTemporary weakness or numbness can occur; permanent facial nerve injury is rare.
- HematomaBlood collection under the skin is the most common early complication and is treated promptly.
- ScarringIncisions are hidden around the ear and hairline and usually fade to fine lines.
All medical procedures carry risks. Your surgeon will review your medical history, explain the risks that apply to you and discuss alternatives before you decide.
Facelift recovery timeline
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Surgery and rest in a private recovery room; most patients return to their hotel the same day. Cold compresses start straight away. |
| Days 2–3 | Swelling and bruising usually peak. Keep your head elevated, walk gently and avoid alcohol, saunas and exercise. |
| Days 5–7 | Check-up at the clinic; stitches, splints or tapes are removed where used. Most patients are cleared to fly after this visit. |
| Week 2 | Most visible swelling has eased and many people return to desk work and light make-up. |
| Months 1–3 | Residual swelling keeps settling and the shape refines. Strenuous exercise is usually resumed after 4 weeks. |
| Months 6–12 | The final result is generally assessed at this stage. We follow up online after you return home. |
Aftercare tips
- Keep your head elevated and avoid strong facial expressions for the first week.
- Avoid saunas, massage and facial treatments for about 4 weeks after surgery or threads.
- Do not smoke for at least 4 weeks around facelift surgery.
- Wear the compression garment if one is provided.
- Use sunscreen daily on treated skin.
Planning your trip to Seoul for Facelift
For surgery we generally recommend about 10–14 days in Seoul, so stitches can be removed and swelling checked before your flight.
Cellis Lab Clinic occupies its own seven-story building at 244 Hyoryeong-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul — next to Gangnam and about an 8-minute walk from Nambu Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, Exit 5). Incheon International Airport is roughly 70–90 minutes away by airport limousine bus or taxi.
Before you book flights, send your photos and questions on WhatsApp. We will reply in English with an initial assessment, a provisional plan and a quote range, then confirm the plan at your in-person consultation.
What affects the cost of Facelift in Korea?
- Surgical, thread or energy-based method
- Full face, lower face or neck
- Number of threads or shots
- Combination with fat grafting or stem cell treatment
Prices are quoted individually after consultation and include the items listed in your written quote.
Facelift FAQ
How long does a deep plane facelift last?
Results are designed to last many years — often around 10 years — although the face continues to age.
When can I fly home after a facelift?
Usually after stitch removal and a check-up around day 7–10. We recommend about 10–14 days in Seoul.
Will my facelift look obvious?
Lifting the deep layers rather than pulling skin is intended to keep expressions natural and avoid a windswept look.
Where can I get Facelift in Seoul, Korea?
Cellis Lab Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul — next to Gangnam — performs Facelift. The clinic is an 8-minute walk from Nambu Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, Exit 5).
How much does Facelift cost in Korea?
The cost of Facelift depends on the technique, materials and extent of treatment. We provide a written quote after an online consultation with photos or an in-person examination.
How long should I stay in Korea for Facelift?
For surgery we generally recommend about 10–14 days in Seoul, so stitches can be removed and swelling checked before your flight. Your exact schedule is confirmed at consultation.
Can I have a consultation in English before travelling?
Yes. Send photos and your questions on WhatsApp in English. We reply with an initial opinion, a suggested plan and the dates you would need in Seoul.
About your surgeon
Dr. Yang Dong-Jun is a Korean board-certified plastic surgeon with 26 years of surgical experience and the developer of the SOFIT, SOFTXIL and VXIL techniques. He performs the consultation and the operation himself.
Related facelift & lifting procedures
- Mini FaceliftShort-incision lift for early jowls
- Endoscopic Forehead LiftEndoscopic forehead and brow lift
- Neck LiftTightening neck bands and loose skin
- SMAS LiftSurgical tightening of the SMAS layer
- Thread LiftIncision-free lift with dissolving threads
- MINT Thread LiftStrong-hold PDO threads for cheeks and jawline
- Silhouette SoftCone threads for lift and subtle volume
- Absorbable Thread LiftPDO, PLLA and PCL threads compared
- Cog Thread LiftBarbed threads for cheeks, folds and jawline
- Double Chin & Nasolabial Thread LiftThreads under the chin and around smile lines
- HIFU LiftingFocused ultrasound to the SMAS layer
- RF LiftingRadiofrequency tightening for laxity and texture