Facelift (Rhytidectomy) — Timeless Rejuvenation by Dr. Pratap Duggirala, Pratap Hospital, Vijayawada
Aging is natural, but premature sagging, wrinkles, and facial drooping can make one appear older or tired. Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy) offers a powerful yet natural-looking rejuvenation by tightening sagging skin, repositioning facial muscles, and restoring youthful contours.
At Pratap Hospital, Vijayawada, Dr. Pratap Duggirala (M.S., M.Ch – Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery) performs advanced facelift procedures that combine aesthetic artistry with reconstructive precision, helping you look as young as you feel — without an artificial or “overdone” appearance.
A facelift is a surgical procedure designed to lift, tighten, and smooth the skin and underlying tissues of the face and neck. It addresses signs of facial aging caused by gravity, sun exposure, and collagen loss — particularly sagging jowls, deep wrinkles, and loose neck skin.
Core Objectives of Facelift Surgery:
Rejuvenate sagging facial tissues
Smooth deep creases between nose and mouth (nasolabial folds)
Lift drooping cheeks and jawline
Tighten loose neck and jowl skin
Restore youthful contour and firmness
Areas Typically Improved:
| Facial Zone | Common Concerns | Correction by Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Face | Sagging jowls, deep folds | Lifted and contoured jawline |
| Midface | Drooping cheeks, flatness | Restored volume and cheek height |
| Neck | Loose, hanging skin | Smooth, firm neck contour |
| Overall | Wrinkles, tired look | Youthful and refreshed appearance |
🧖 Facelift does not change who you are — it helps you look rested, confident, and vibrant again.
🕊️ Why People Choose Facelift Surgery at Pratap Hospital
Patients across Vijayawada and Andhra Pradesh trust Dr. Pratap Duggirala for his artistic precision and reconstructive expertise. Every facelift at Pratap Hospital is a balance of medical science, advanced technology, and aesthetic harmony.
What Sets Us Apart:
Tailored Facial Mapping: Every patient’s facial structure, skin elasticity, and aging pattern are unique — we design individualized plans.
Natural-Looking Results: No tight or artificial “pulled” look — only subtle rejuvenation.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: Modern short-scar and SMAS facelifts reduce downtime.
Expert Surgeon: Dr. Pratap combines reconstructive anatomy mastery with cosmetic finesse.
Comprehensive Care: From pre-surgery evaluation to aftercare, your comfort and safety come first.
🌹 Experience the artistry of one of the best facelift surgeons in Vijayawada at Pratap Hospital.
You may be an ideal candidate for facelift surgery if you:
Notice sagging cheeks, jowls, or neck skin
Feel your face looks older or tired than your actual age
Have loose facial muscles or loss of youthful contour
Maintain good general health with no major medical issues
Have realistic expectations about subtle, natural rejuvenation
Suitability Chart
| Factor | Suitable Candidate Profile |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 40–70 years (varies by genetics and lifestyle) |
| Skin Type | Elastic, healthy skin preferred |
| Health Status | Non-smoker, no uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension |
| Goal | To restore youthful firmness and definition |
| Commitment | Willing to follow recovery and skincare routine |
🔍 Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Every facelift begins with a detailed facial assessment to ensure safety and customized results.
Comprehensive Evaluation Includes:
Facial Analysis: Study of sagging areas, bone support, and skin elasticity
3D Imaging: Preview of expected improvements
Medical Examination: Blood tests, cardiac clearance (if needed)
Photographic Records: For surgical planning and progress tracking
Discussion of Goals: Desired tightness, downtime, and recovery expectations
🧑⚕️ A good facelift begins long before surgery — with careful planning, honesty, and understanding.
Dr. Pratap Duggirala performs a range of modern facelift procedures, chosen based on the patient’s age, anatomy, and desired level of correction.
| Technique | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional (SMAS) Facelift | Tightens deep muscle layers and repositions skin | Moderate to severe aging |
| Mini Facelift | Smaller incisions for early sagging | Younger patients, mild aging |
| Mid-Facelift | Focuses on cheeks and nasolabial folds | Sagging midface |
| Neck Lift | Targets jowls, double chin, and loose neck | Prominent neck aging |
| Thread Lift (Non-surgical) | Uses absorbable sutures to lift mild sagging | Minimal downtime, early aging |
💎 Dr. Pratap often combines facelift with fat grafting or eyelid correction for full-face rejuvenation.
🩺 The Surgical Process
Step 1: Anesthesia
Facelift surgery is performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation, ensuring full comfort.
Step 2: Incision Placement
Incisions are strategically hidden around the hairline, behind the ears, or under the chin, depending on the chosen technique.
Step 3: Muscle & Tissue Tightening
The underlying SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is tightened and lifted — this ensures lasting, natural results.
Step 4: Skin Redraping & Trimming
Excess skin is carefully removed, and the remaining skin is re-draped smoothly.
Step 5: Closure & Dressing
Fine sutures are used for closure; bandages and drains (if required) are applied.
| Step | Duration | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation & Marking | 30 mins | Planning and symmetry |
| Anesthesia | 20 mins | Comfort and safety |
| Surgery | 3–5 hours | Rejuvenation and tightening |
| Dressing | 15 mins | Secure healing |
🌿 Post-Surgery Care & Recovery
A facelift is a day-care or overnight procedure. Most patients return to routine activities within 10–14 days.
Aftercare Instructions
Keep head elevated to minimize swelling
Use cold compresses for 24–48 hours
Avoid heavy lifting or bending for 2 weeks
Sleep on your back for the first week
Follow medication and dressing instructions precisely
Attend follow-ups for suture removal and healing checks
| Recovery Stage | Timeline | Expected Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1–3 | Mild swelling, bandage removal | Rest and cooling compresses |
| Week 1 | Reduced bruising | Return to light activities |
| Week 2–3 | Skin tightness improves | Resume normal work |
| Month 1–3 | Final definition visible | Natural contour established |
🌸 Healing is as important as the surgery itself — we guide you through every step.
💫 Expected Results
After healing, patients notice:
A younger, smoother facial contour
Reduced wrinkles and sagging
Sharper jawline and lifted cheeks
Natural, rejuvenated expression
Improved self-confidence and facial harmony
Results can last 8–12 years, depending on genetics and lifestyle.
Facelift vs. Non-Surgical Rejuvenation
| Feature | Facelift Surgery | Thread Lift / Fillers / Botox |
|---|---|---|
| Correction Depth | Deep (SMAS, skin, muscle) | Superficial (skin only) |
| Longevity | 8–12 years | 6–18 months |
| Downtime | 10–14 days | Minimal |
| Cost | Higher initially | Repeated maintenance costs |
| Result | Natural and lasting | Temporary and mild |
🕊️ For long-term rejuvenation, surgical facelift remains the gold standard.
⚠️ Possible Risks (Minimized at Pratap Hospital)
Though facelift surgery is safe under expert care, minor risks include:
Temporary swelling or bruising
Mild numbness around ears or cheeks
Tightness feeling (subsides within weeks)
Rare infection or hematoma
🧑⚕️ At Pratap Hospital, every procedure follows world-class safety and sterilization protocols to ensure minimal risk.
Q1. Will I look different or unnatural after a facelift?
No. The goal is natural rejuvenation, not transformation. You’ll look refreshed, not “operated.”
Q2. At what age should I consider facelift surgery?
Most patients are between 40 and 70 years, depending on facial aging signs.
Q3. How long do facelift results last?
Results typically last 8–12 years with proper skincare and sun protection.
Q4. Can facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Commonly combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), neck lift, or fat grafting.
Q5. Is it painful?
Mild discomfort may occur for 2–3 days but is easily managed with medication.
Q6. How soon can I resume work?
Light work can be resumed within 10–14 days; full activity after 3–4 weeks.
🌹 Why Choose Dr. Pratap Duggirala for Facelift Surgery
Highly qualified Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon (M.S., M.Ch)
Over a decade of experience in advanced facial rejuvenation techniques
Expert in SMAS, Mini, and Neck Facelift methods
Focus on natural, youthful outcomes — not artificial tightness
Uses microsurgical precision for minimal scarring
Comprehensive pre- and post-surgical care
Trusted by patients across Vijayawada and Andhra Pradesh
💎 Dr. Pratap’s artistry lies in achieving balance — a fresher you, not a different you.
Book a Consultation
If you’re considering a Facelift (Rhytidectomy) to achieve a more youthful, lifted, and naturally refreshed facial appearance, schedule a consultation at Pratap Hospital today.
Our team will guide you through every step — from evaluation and planning to surgery and recovery — ensuring safe, effective, and beautifully natural results.
📍 Pratap Hospital — Reconstructive, Aesthetic & Microsurgery Centre
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 94929 69899
📧 Email: drpratapshospital@gmail.com
Before And After Results
