A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that helps reduce visible signs of facial ageing by tightening and repositioning skin and underlying tissues for a more refreshed appearance.

Who performs facelift procedures at Aesthetica?

Facelift procedures at Aesthetica are performed by Dr David Ross, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, and Dr Tony Prochazka, Cosmetic Doctor, who both have extensive experience in facial surgery and rejuvenation.

Are non-surgical facelift options available?

Yes. Aesthetica also offers non-surgical facelift alternatives such as Ultherapy and Radio Frequency (RF) skin tightening to help improve facial tone and contour without surgery.

Facelift Surgery Melbourne

Supporting you in making confident, informed choices.

At Aesthetica Image Centre in Armadale, Melbourne, we offer facelift surgery and non-surgical facelift options to help restore definition and balance to your face and neck.

A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that addresses natural changes that occur with time, including skin laxity, tissue descent, and loss of tone. Our aim is to help you explore your options and make a well-informed decision about what’s right for you.

Choosing to undergo any procedure is a personal decision. Our team provides honest guidance, medical experience, and genuine care every step of the way.

We believe in enhancing and preserving the real you.

We welcome your email, text or online chat

What concerns can a Facelift help with?

As we age, changes to facial tissues can include skin laxity, changes in soft tissue volume, and muscle tone. A facelift is a surgical procedure that may help reposition or reshape these tissues.

A facelift is designed to restore a more defined facial contour and smooth areas where skin and soft tissue have shifted over time.
It may address:

Laxity or sagging along the jawline or lower face
Deep folds or creases around the mouth and chin
Volume or tissue descent in the midface

Every person experiences ageing differently, and not all concerns require surgery. During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether a facelift, or a non-surgical alternative such as Ultherapy or Accent RF is best suited to your goals.

Facelift techniques

The face is made up of several anatomical layers, and these are carefully considered during facelift planning. A standard facelift may involve repositioning and securing tissues beneath the skin to address changes that occur with age and gravity.

The key structural layers include:

Skin
Subcutaneous fat
SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System): a fibrous layer that supports the muscles and tissues of the face
Deeper connective tissues and facial bones

Depending on your individual anatomy and surgical goals, different techniques may be used:

High SMAS Facelift

Lifts and repositions the SMAS layer vertically to refine the midface, jawline, and lower face.

Deep Plane Facelift

Targets deeper structures beneath the SMAS layer, releasing ligaments to allow more natural repositioning. Often used when more comprehensive lifting is desired.

MACS (Mid-Plane) Facelift

Uses smaller incisions and focuses on vertical midface lifting with internal sutures for subtle, natural support.

Each method has unique considerations — your surgeon will explain which may be appropriate for you.

Facelift recovery and aftercare

Recovery times vary depending on technique, individual healing, and overall health.
At Aesthetica, your post-operative care is fully supported with:

Personalised recovery plans and follow-up appointments
24-hour phone support
LED light therapy to support healing
Optional oxygen therapy or lymphatic drainage to aid comfort and circulation

You’ll be guided through every stage, including when to safely resume normal activities

Getting Back to Daily Activities

Time away from regular activities is recommended. Some individuals return to light duties within two weeks, but this varies. You’ll be advised on when it is suitable to resume exercise, work, and social activities based on your healing progress.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Our care continues well beyond surgery. We may recommend skin support treatments or non-surgical options to help maintain your results over time, if appropriate for you. Everything is tailored to your individual needs.

Facelift risks and possible complications

All surgical procedures carry risks. Your Plastic Surgeon will discuss these with you in detail during your consultation to help you make an informed decision.

Potential risks associated with facelift surgery may include:

Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
Infection
Changes in skin sensation (temporary or permanent)
Visible or unfavourable scarring
Delayed wound healing
Asymmetry
Nerve injury (which may affect facial movement)
The possibility of revision procedures

Individual factors such as your health, medical history, and response to surgery can influence the likelihood of complications. We encourage you to take the time you need before deciding on any procedure.

Considering Your Options

Not everyone seeking facial rejuvenation requires surgery.
We also offer several non-surgical options that can complement or delay the need for a facelift, including:

Ultherapy (Ultrasound Skin Tightening)
Accent RF (Radiofrequency Skin Tightening)
Pixel Fractional Resurfacing or Microneedling
IPL and Medical Peels for texture and tone improvement

Frequently asked questions

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about facelifts at Aesthetica Image Centre.

How do I know if I’m suitable for a facelift?

Surgical suitability depends on your general health, medical history, and individual anatomy. During your consultation, we will assess these factors and discuss whether a facelift or a non-surgical alternative may be appropriate for you.

How long is the recovery period?

Recovery times vary. Most people require time away from regular activities for at least 1–2 weeks, with a gradual return depending on your healing progress. We monitor your recovery and advise you when it’s appropriate to resume different activities.

Will I still look like myself after a facelift?

Our approach focuses on addressing specific structural concerns without altering your natural features. Your surgeon will discuss expected changes and realistic outcomes based on your individual anatomy, but we do not guarantee any specific appearance results.

Your Facelift Consultation

Your initial consultation is a chance to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns. Together, we’ll explore whether a facelift or a non-surgical treatment might be most appropriate for you.

As each facelift procedure is planned according to individual needs, costs can vary depending on the surgical approach, anaesthetic requirements, and any complementary treatments chosen.

We will provide you with a detailed estimate following your consultation, once a suitable treatment plan has been discussed and determined. This will include a breakdown of all associated fees and information to support your decision-making process.

We encourage you to take the time you need to consider your options.

After your consultation,you may decide that a nonsurgical option, such as Ultherapy, non-surgical facelift is best suited.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about facelift procedures and your options, we invite you to book a consultation with our experienced team.

Meet our Facelift team

Dr David Ross – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr David Ross FRACS (Plast) is an experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He offers a comprehensive range of facial procedures, combining surgical precision with a strong focus on safety and natural results.
AHPRA Registration: MED0001124797

Dr Tony Prochazka – Cosmetic Doctor

Dr Tony Prochazka MBBS (Melb) FACCSM (Med) FCPCA has more than 20 years of experience performing aesthetic and facial procedures, including facelift and eyelid surgery. Recognised for his calm, patient-focused approach, he provides thorough consultations and realistic expectations.
AHPRA Registration: MED0001181976

Kathryn Coen – Dermal Clinician

Bachelor of Applied Science (Dermal Therapies), Victoria University
Kathryn specialises in treating ageing and sun-damaged skin, acne, and scarring. She is highly experienced in non-surgical facial rejuvenation, including Ultherapy, Radiofrequency Skin Tightening, Pixel Fractional Resurfacing, and IPL treatments.

Why Aesthetica

At Aesthetica, we take the time to truly listen.
Our patients often tell us they value our:

Warm, caring and empathetic approach
Genuine commitment to understanding individual needs
Thoughtful, unrushed consultations
Respect for informed choice and personal comfort
More than 30 years of experience in cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical
Collaborative team of qualified practitioners
Convenient location in Armadale, Melbourne
Personalised aftercare and support
throughout your journey until you feel confident to move on.

We’re here to provide a supportive environment where you can explore your options with confidence and clarity.

Book your complimentary appointment

If you’d like to discuss your goals or learn more about our treatments, we invite you to book a complimentary consultation with our patient care team.
We’ll take the time to understand your concerns and guide you through your options — without pressure or obligation

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Get in touch

Consultations - in person or phone call,
range from complimentary to $250.00

Our Address

Aesthetica Image Centre
4 Northcote Road
Armadale VIC 3143

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Call or text

61 3 9824 6134 or 61 409 149 521

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We look forward to your enquiry.

Disclaimer

Information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for a professional consultation.
It is important to understand that any surgical, medical procedure or proven non-surgical treatment carries risks.
Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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