Quick Answer
Facelift (rhytidectomy) in New Zealand costs $15,000-$28,000, takes 2-5 hours under general anesthesia, and requires 2-3 weeks initial recovery with final results at 6-12 months. Choose a FRACS-qualified facial plastic surgeon performing 100+ facelifts annually. Success rate is 85-90% with patient satisfaction of 85-95% when realistic expectations are set. Results last 7-15 years.
Facelift (Rhytidectomy) in New Zealand
Comprehensive guide to facial rejuvenation surgery - costs, recovery, risks, and choosing the best surgeon for natural, long-lasting results
Key Takeaways
- Cost Range: Facelift in NZ costs $15,000-$20,000 for mini facelift, $20,000-$28,000 for full facelift, and $12,000-$18,000 for isolated neck lift. Combined procedures (facelift + eyelids or brow lift) cost $25,000-$35,000. Not typically covered by insurance.
- Recovery Timeline: Initial healing 2-3 weeks with most swelling/bruising resolved, return to work at 10-14 days, exercise at 4-6 weeks. Residual swelling resolves over 3-6 months with final results at 6-12 months as tissues fully settle and mature.
- Surgeon Qualifications: Choose FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons or ENT specialists with facial plastic surgery fellowship, performing 100+ facelifts annually, 10-15+ years experience, extensive portfolios showing natural results, membership in ASPS or ASAPS.
- Procedure Details: Performed under general anesthesia, takes 2-5 hours depending on extent (mini 2-3 hours, full 3-5 hours), tightens SMAS layer and muscles, repositions fat, removes excess skin. Drains for 1-3 days, incisions hidden in hairline and around ears.
- Best Candidates: Ages 40-70 with realistic expectations, non-smokers or willing to quit 6-8 weeks before/after, good skin elasticity, good overall health, visible signs of facial aging (jowls, sagging, neck laxity), stable weight, no active skin conditions.
- Longevity & Results: Mini facelift lasts 5-7 years, full facelift 10-15 years. Results are long-lasting but not permanent - aging continues at a slower pace. Sun protection, skincare, healthy lifestyle maximize longevity. Many patients have secondary facelifts after 10-15 years.
Facelift Cost in New Zealand
Full Facelift (SMAS/Deep-Plane)
- Surgeon's fee ($12,000-$18,000)
- Anesthesiologist fee ($2,000-$3,500)
- Facility/hospital fee ($2,500-$4,500)
- Pre-operative tests & consultations
- Post-operative care & follow-ups
Other Facelift Options
Lower face/jowls only, shorter recovery, lasts 5-7 years
Neck bands, sagging skin, turkey neck correction
Combined upper/lower face rejuvenation, one recovery
Restores volume while lifting, more natural results
Payment Options & Insurance
- Most clinics offer payment plans through Q Card, Gem Visa, or in-house financing with 6-24 month terms
- Cosmetic facelifts are not covered by public healthcare or most private insurance policies as they're considered elective aesthetic surgery
- Rarely, reconstructive facelifts after trauma, cancer, or burns may receive partial insurance coverage with documentation
- Get detailed written quotes from multiple surgeons including all fees - beware of lowball quotes missing anesthesia/facility costs
Facelift Procedure Details
Duration
2-5 hours depending on extent. Mini facelift 2-3 hours, full facelift 3-4 hours, full facelift with neck lift or fat grafting 4-5 hours.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia (fully asleep) is standard for all facelifts due to duration, patient comfort, and optimal surgical conditions. Twilight sedation not recommended for safety.
Hospital Stay
Usually 1-night hospital stay for monitoring, pain management, and drain care. Rarely outpatient for mini facelifts. Extended stay if combined procedures.
Before Facelift: Preparation Guide
6-8 Weeks Before Surgery
- Stop smoking completely - nicotine causes vasoconstriction increasing skin necrosis risk 4-6x. Must quit 6-8 weeks before and 6-8 weeks after surgery minimum
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications - aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo, garlic supplements 2-3 weeks before (get surgeon approval first)
- Optimize skin health - use retinoids, vitamin C serum, daily SPF 50+ sunscreen, hydrate well (improves healing and results)
- Maintain healthy lifestyle - balanced diet rich in protein/vitamins, regular exercise, adequate sleep, manage stress, control chronic conditions
- Medical clearance if over 60 - EKG, blood work, chest X-ray if cardiac/pulmonary history, clearance from primary care physician
- Arrange help at home - adult to drive you home, stay with you first 48-72 hours, help with daily tasks for 1-2 weeks (cooking, cleaning, childcare)
1-2 Weeks Before Surgery
- Fill prescriptions - pain medication, antibiotics, anti-nausea medication, arnica tablets for bruising so they're ready when you get home
- Purchase recovery supplies - button-up shirts, gauze pads, ice packs, bendy straws, lip balm, baby wipes, dry shampoo, travel neck pillow
- Prepare recovery space - set up bedroom/recliner with extra pillows (sleep elevated 30-45 degrees for 1-2 weeks), bedside supplies, entertainment
- Stock soft, easy foods - protein shakes, smoothies, soups, yogurt, soft fruits, avoid hot liquids first few days (can increase swelling)
- Plan extended time off work - minimum 2-3 weeks, longer if public-facing role or physical job. Consider social calendar - avoid events for 3-4 weeks
- Hair color/cut if desired - get hair services done 1 week before (can't color hair for 4-6 weeks after, washing limited first 2 weeks)
Day Before & Day of Surgery
- Wash hair and face thoroughly - surgeon may provide antibacterial soap (chlorhexidine) for night before and morning of surgery. Clean hair well as washing difficult for first week
- Fast appropriately - no food or drink (including water) for 8+ hours before surgery time to prevent anesthesia complications
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing - button-up or zip-up shirt (nothing pulled over head), elastic-waist pants, slip-on shoes
- Remove all jewelry, makeup, nail polish - especially facial jewelry, contact lenses. Leave valuables at home. Bring photo ID and insurance cards
- Arrive with clean, product-free skin and hair - no moisturizers, makeup, hair products, perfumes on day of surgery
After Facelift: Recovery & Care Instructions
First 48-72 Hours (Critical Period)
- Keep head elevated 30-45 degrees continuously - sleep in recliner or propped with pillows, even during day. Critical for minimizing swelling and preventing hematoma
- Apply cold compresses gently - ice packs wrapped in towel on cheeks/forehead (not directly on incisions) for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours while awake
- Manage surgical drains carefully - empty and measure drainage 2-3 times daily, keep drainage log. Watch for signs of hematoma (sudden swelling, severe pain, pressure)
- Take medications as prescribed - pain medication every 4-6 hours (expect moderate pain 4-6/10), antibiotics as directed, anti-nausea if needed
- Rest completely but move gently - stay in bed/recliner most of time, short bathroom walks only. No bending, lifting, straining. Someone must assist you
- Eat soft, cool foods only - avoid chewing excessively (can increase swelling), no hot liquids (dilate blood vessels), stay hydrated
- Keep facial bandages clean and dry - don't remove or adjust bandages yourself. Surgeon removes/changes at 1-3 day follow-up appointment
- Watch for warning signs - sudden severe pain/swelling, excessive bleeding, fever >38.5°C, foul drainage odor. Contact surgeon immediately if any occur
First 1-2 Weeks
- Attend drain removal (days 1-3) - surgeon removes drains when drainage drops below 25-30ml per 24 hours. Significant relief after removal
- Suture removal at 7-10 days - staples/stitches removed at follow-up. Some dissolving sutures may remain longer. Incisions still fragile - no tension
- Gentle hair washing approved around day 3-5 - baby shampoo, lukewarm water, very gentle. Pat dry carefully. Avoid blow dryer heat for 2 weeks
- Continue head elevation for 1-2 weeks - sleep elevated entire first week minimum, preferably 2 weeks. Back sleeping only (no side/stomach sleeping)
- Avoid all strenuous activity - no bending over at waist, no lifting over 5-10 pounds, no exercise beyond gentle walking. Blood pressure spikes risk hematoma
- Minimize facial movements - limit smiling, laughing, chewing (eat soft foods), talking excessively. Protects incisions and reduces swelling
- Expect numbness and tightness - normal for ears, cheeks, neck to feel numb/tight for weeks to months. Sensation gradually returns over 3-12 months
Weeks 2-6: Progressive Recovery
- Gradually resume light activities - walking, light household tasks at 2-3 weeks. Avoid lifting over 15-20 pounds, no bending/straining until 4-6 weeks
- Return to work at 2-3 weeks - when comfortable appearing in public with makeup covering residual bruising. Avoid high-stress or physical jobs longer
- Begin scar care from week 3 - once incisions fully healed, use silicone scar gel/sheets, gentle massage after week 4-6, vitamin E oil. Continue for 6-12 months
- Sun protection is critical - wear SPF 50+ sunscreen daily, hats, sunglasses. UV exposure causes permanent hyperpigmentation of scars and worsens swelling. Protect for 12 months minimum
- Can resume side sleeping at 4 weeks - with surgeon approval. Use soft pillow, avoid direct pressure on incisions. Back sleeping still preferred through week 6
- Exercise gradually from 4-6 weeks - light cardio at 4 weeks with surgeon approval, moderate exercise at 6 weeks, full exercise including strength training at 8 weeks
- Makeup allowed from week 2-3 - gentle mineral makeup to cover bruising/redness. Avoid heavy foundation on incision lines until week 4-6
- Attend all follow-up appointments - typically at 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year to monitor healing and address concerns
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Week 1-2: Early Recovery Phase
The most challenging period with significant swelling, bruising, discomfort, and dependence on others. Drains and bandages in place.
What You'll Experience:
- • Moderate to significant pain (4-6/10), managed with medication
- • Extensive swelling and bruising around face, eyes, neck
- • Bruising peaks at days 3-5, can extend to chest/shoulders
- • Tightness, numbness, pulling sensations (normal)
- • Drainage tubes for first 1-3 days
- • Difficulty sleeping due to head elevation requirement
- • Limited facial movement, chewing, expressions
- • Fatigue and emotional ups and downs
Milestones:
- • Days 1-3: Drain removal, bandage change
- • Day 3-5: Swelling and bruising peak
- • Day 7-10: Suture/staple removal
- • Week 2: Bruising 70-80% resolved
- • Week 2: First glimpse of new contours (still swollen)
- • Cleared for light activities, careful hair washing
Weeks 3-6: Intermediate Healing Phase
Visible improvement as swelling and bruising resolve. Returning to work and social activities with increased confidence.
What You'll Experience:
- • 60-70% of swelling resolved by week 3-4
- • Bruising 90-95% faded, easily concealed with makeup
- • Facial contours becoming more defined and natural
- • Incisions healing, scars red/pink but fading
- • Persistent numbness in cheeks, ears, neck (temporary)
- • Tightness gradually easing
- • Comfortable appearing in public with makeup
- • Increased energy and independence
Milestones:
- • Week 3: Return to work for most patients
- • Week 3: Begin scar care routine
- • Week 4: Resume light exercise (walking, yoga)
- • Week 4: Side sleeping allowed with caution
- • Week 6: Moderate exercise cleared (jogging, cycling)
- • Week 6: More natural facial movement returns
- • Comfortable in most social situations
Months 3-12: Final Refinement & Maturation
Gradual settling and refinement as residual swelling resolves completely, scars mature, and tissues soften into final shape.
What You'll Experience:
- • 80-90% swelling resolved by month 3
- • 95% swelling resolved by month 6
- • Facial contours continue subtle refinement through month 12
- • Scars fading from red/pink to light lines (12-18 months)
- • Numbness gradually resolving (may take 12-18 months)
- • Tissues softening, more natural feel to face
- • Final shape emerging, enjoying results
- • Boosted confidence and satisfaction
Milestones:
- • Month 3: 70-80% of final result visible
- • Month 3: Full exercise including strength training cleared
- • Month 6: 90% of final result visible
- • Month 6: Scars significantly faded, well-hidden
- • Month 12: Final result fully realized
- • Month 12-18: Scars mature to final appearance
- • Enjoying long-lasting rejuvenation (7-15 years)
Risks & Complications of Facelift
While facelift is generally safe when performed by experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeons, all surgery carries risks. Complication rates are significantly higher in smokers and increase with age and medical conditions.
Common Issues (5-15% of cases)
- Prolonged swelling and bruising - While most resolves in 2-3 weeks, some patients experience persistent swelling for 3-6 months, especially in neck. Normal variation in healing. More common in patients over 60.
- Numbness and altered sensation - Temporary numbness of cheeks, ears, neck is expected for 3-12 months. Permanent decreased sensation occurs in less than 5%, usually minor and well-tolerated.
- Tightness and pulling sensation - Normal for first 3-6 months as tissues heal and adapt. Gradually eases. Excessive tightness may indicate over-correction requiring revision.
- Minor asymmetry - Slight differences between sides are normal (faces are naturally asymmetric). Significant asymmetry may require minor revision. Discuss expectations with surgeon pre-operatively.
Serious Complications (Rare, less than 5%)
- Hematoma (blood collection) - Most common serious complication (3-5%, higher in men 8-10%). Causes sudden severe swelling, pain, pressure. Requires urgent drainage to prevent skin necrosis. Usually occurs first 24-48 hours.
- Infection - Occurs in less than 2% of cases. Signs: fever, increasing pain/redness, pus, foul odor. Requires antibiotics, possibly drainage or hospitalization. Higher risk in diabetics and smokers.
- Nerve injury causing facial weakness - Temporary weakness from nerve stretching (5-10%, resolves in weeks to months). Permanent injury very rare (less than 1%). Most commonly affects smile or eyebrow movement.
- Skin necrosis (tissue death) - Occurs in 1-3% overall, but 10-15% in smokers. Appears as dark/black skin. May require debridement, extended healing, or skin grafting. Smoking is primary risk factor.
Additional Potential Complications
- Hair loss at incisions - Temporary thinning common, permanent loss rare. Can be camouflaged with styling or addressed with follicular unit transplant
- Unfavorable scarring - Hypertrophic/keloid scars, scar widening, hyperpigmentation. More common in darker skin types or genetic predisposition
- Ear problems - Pixie ear deformity (earlobe pulled down), ear numbness, sensitivity to cold in ears (temporary)
- Deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism - Very rare (less than 0.5%) but potentially life-threatening. Prevented with early mobilization, compression stockings
Minimizing Risks: Choose board-certified facial plastic surgeon with 100+ facelifts annually and extensive experience; quit smoking 6-8 weeks before and after surgery (critical - smoking increases complications 4-6x); follow all pre/post-operative instructions meticulously; attend all follow-ups; control blood pressure and diabetes; contact surgeon immediately for sudden severe pain/swelling, high fever, facial weakness, excessive bleeding, or breathing difficulties.
How to Choose the Best Facelift Surgeon
Facelift is one of the most complex facial procedures requiring exceptional surgical skill, artistic judgment, and extensive experience. Choosing the right surgeon is the single most important decision affecting your results and safety.
1. Verify Board Certification & Specialized Training
- FRACS certification in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery OR Otolaryngology (ENT) with fellowship in Facial Plastic Surgery
- Registration with Medical Council of New Zealand with clean disciplinary record (verify online)
- Additional fellowship training specifically in facial plastic surgery or aesthetic surgery beyond residency (1-2 years)
- Membership in ASPS, ASAPS, ISAPS or facial plastic surgery societies - indicates commitment to ongoing education and ethical standards
2. Assess High-Volume Specialization
- Performs 100+ facelifts annually - high-volume specialists have significantly better outcomes, lower complication rates, and refined aesthetic judgment
- 10-15+ years experience specifically performing facelifts - face is most complex, experience matters enormously
- Facial rejuvenation represents primary focus of practice (50%+ of procedures) - not a surgeon who does occasional facelifts among many other procedures
- Uses advanced techniques - SMAS lift, deep-plane, composite facelift (deeper, longer-lasting techniques vs. outdated skin-only lifts)
3. Review Extensive Portfolio & Aesthetic Style
- Hundreds of before/after photos showing patients similar to your age, gender, ethnicity, and degree of aging
- Results look natural and refreshed, not "done" - avoid surgeons whose patients look pulled, tight, windswept, or obviously operated on
- Consistent aesthetic style that appeals to you - each surgeon has a signature look, ensure it matches your goals
- Patient testimonials (4.5+ stars) highlighting natural results, satisfaction, bedside manner, complication management, long-term support
4. Evaluate Consultation Experience & Communication
- Surgeon spends 45-60+ minutes listening to your concerns, examining your face, discussing realistic expectations (not rushed)
- Honest about what's achievable - discusses your anatomy, skin quality, realistic improvements, limitations of surgery
- Thoroughly discusses risks and recovery - doesn't minimize difficulty, complications, or downtime. Transparent about hematoma, nerve injury, smoking risks
- Explains their specific technique - SMAS, deep-plane, composite, fat grafting. Educated surgeons explain why they use certain approaches for your anatomy
- You feel comfortable, understood, and confident - trust your instincts about surgeon rapport and communication style
5. Confirm Safety Standards & Facility Accreditation
- Surgery performed in accredited hospital or surgical facility with full emergency capabilities and overnight monitoring
- Board-certified anesthesiologist (not nurse anesthetist alone for complex facial surgery requiring general anesthesia)
- Clear emergency protocols and 24/7 access to surgeon for post-operative concerns, especially critical first 48 hours
- Transparent all-inclusive pricing - detailed written quote with all fees, clear revision policy, no hidden costs
- Hospital privileges - surgeon should have admitting privileges at accredited hospitals (indicates thorough credentialing and peer review)
Red Flags to Avoid:
- • Promises "no scarring," "permanent results," or guaranteed outcomes
- • Pressure to book immediately, limited-time discounts, or aggressive marketing
- • Performs facelifts in office setting without proper accreditation or emergency equipment
- • Limited before/after photos or results that look unnatural, tight, windswept, or overdone
- • Surgeon performs facelifts occasionally among many other unrelated procedures
- • Doesn't thoroughly discuss risks, recovery difficulty, or realistic expectations
- • Poor reviews mentioning complications, lack of follow-up, or unsatisfactory results
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a facelift cost in New Zealand?
Facelift in New Zealand costs between $15,000 and $28,000 depending on the type and extent. A mini facelift costs $15,000-$20,000, full facelift $20,000-$28,000, and neck lift $12,000-$18,000. Costs include surgeon's fees ($10,000-$18,000), anesthesiologist ($2,000-$3,500), facility fees ($2,500-$4,500), and post-operative care. Combined procedures like facelift with eyelid surgery cost $25,000-$35,000. Most clinics offer payment plans through Q Card or Gem Visa.
How long is recovery after a facelift?
Initial recovery takes 2-3 weeks before returning to work and social activities. Swelling and bruising peak at 3-5 days and largely resolve by 2-3 weeks. You'll have bandages/drains for 1-3 days, sutures removed at 7-10 days, and must avoid strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks. Most swelling resolves by 3 months, with final results visible at 6-12 months as tissues settle. The neck takes longer to heal than the face. Plan 2-4 weeks off work depending on your role and comfort level.
What's the difference between a mini facelift and full facelift?
A mini facelift (short-scar or S-lift) addresses early aging in the lower face and jowls through smaller incisions around the ears, has 1-2 week recovery, costs $15,000-$20,000, and lasts 5-7 years. A full facelift treats more extensive aging of the entire face and neck through longer incisions from temples to behind ears, includes neck muscle tightening and fat repositioning, has 3-4 week recovery, costs $20,000-$28,000, and lasts 10-15 years. Your surgeon recommends based on your age (mini for 40s-50s, full for 50s-70s), degree of sagging, and goals.
What is the best age for a facelift?
Most patients are between 40 and 70 years old. The 'best' age depends on your genetics, lifestyle, and degree of facial aging rather than a specific number. Patients in their 40s-50s often choose mini facelifts for early jowls and mild sagging. Those in their 50s-60s typically need full facelifts for moderate to advanced aging. Patients over 70 can still be excellent candidates if in good health. Earlier intervention (40s-50s) can provide subtle, natural results and may delay need for more extensive surgery. Timing is individual - have a consultation when you're bothered by aging signs.
How long do facelift results last?
Facelift results typically last 7-15 years depending on technique and individual factors. Mini facelifts last 5-7 years, while full facelifts with deep-plane or SMAS techniques last 10-15 years. Longevity depends on your age at surgery (younger patients see longer-lasting results), genetics, skin quality, sun exposure, smoking status, and weight stability. While the clock continues ticking, you'll always look younger than if you hadn't had surgery. Some patients have revision or secondary facelifts after 10-15 years. Proper skincare, sun protection, and healthy lifestyle maximize longevity.
Will facelift scars be visible?
Facelift scars are strategically placed to be well-hidden in natural creases and hairlines. Incisions typically run in front of and behind the ears, extending into the hairline. With proper healing and skilled technique, scars fade to thin, barely visible lines within 12-18 months. Initially scars are red and noticeable for 3-6 months. Factors affecting scarring include genetics (some people scar better than others), skin type (lighter skin typically scars less visibly), surgeon skill, smoking status (smokers have worse scarring), and post-operative scar care. Most patients can wear their hair up within 6-12 months without visible scars.
What are the risks of facelift surgery?
While generally safe with experienced surgeons, facelift carries risks including: hematoma (blood collection requiring drainage, 3-5% most common complication), infection (less than 2%), nerve injury causing temporary facial weakness (5-10%, permanent less than 1%), skin necrosis especially in smokers (1-3% higher in smokers), hair loss at incisions, unfavorable scarring, and asymmetry. Serious complications like stroke or deep vein thrombosis are very rare (less than 0.5%). Choosing a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with extensive facelift experience significantly reduces risks. Smokers have 4-6x higher complication rates and should quit 6-8 weeks before and after surgery.
How do I choose the best facelift surgeon?
Look for a surgeon who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with specialist training in plastic surgery or otolaryngology with facial plastic surgery fellowship. They should perform 100+ facelifts annually (high-volume specialists have better outcomes), have 10-15+ years experience, show extensive before/after galleries with patients similar to your age and concerns, and be members of professional societies like ASPS or ASAPS. During consultation, assess their aesthetic style (natural vs. overdone), willingness to discuss realistic expectations and risks, use of advanced techniques (deep-plane, SMAS), and your comfort level. Verify surgery is performed in accredited facilities with board-certified anesthesiologists.
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