Full facial rejuvenation

Introduction

Full facial rejuvenation is a comprehensive treatment journey that addresses the entire face – from forehead to neck – in a harmonious approach. At its core is the deep plane face and neck lift, an advanced surgical technique in which the underlying tissue beneath the skin and beyond the SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) is carefully released and lifted as a whole. This method ensures a strong restructuring of the facial contours, leading to long-lasting rejuvenating effects. By restoring deep fascia and suspension ligaments, such as the zygomatic ligaments, the anatomy is corrected without pulling the skin unnaturally tight. The end result is a natural lift of the cheekbones, jawline, and neck.

Harmonious rejuvenation, artfully crafted

Goal

The goal of full facial rejuvenation is to restore the youthful contours of the face by addressing both deep structures and superficial skin layers. This means lifting sagging cheek and neck tissues, reducing wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture. By treating both the face and neck together, a harmonious and natural result is achieved, with facial expressions preserved. Additionally, anatomical aging – such as tissue sagging and volume loss – is corrected at a deep level, providing longer-lasting results compared to superficial techniques alone.

The cornerstone of the procedure is the deep plane face and neck lift. Through incisions around the hairline and ears, the underlying connective tissue and musculature beneath the skin are carefully released. The release of deep ligaments, such as the zygomatic ligaments that fixate the cheek fat, creates a movable tissue layer that allows for the entire midface to be lifted. This deep lift enables the face to be lifted naturally, higher, and more smoothly, while maintaining expression and avoiding a tight, pulled appearance.

Simultaneously, a deep neck lift is performed to remove excess fat beneath the platysma muscle. If necessary, submandibular salivary glands can also be partially reduced to prevent swelling. This procedure sharpens the transition between chin and neck, tightening the jawline so that the cheeks and neck are lifted as a single monobloc unit.

To optimize the overall result, additional procedures are often combined. Upper and/or lower eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat around the eyes, eliminating drooping eyelids and refreshing the gaze. A brow lift can raise the forehead and eyebrows, reducing forehead wrinkles and giving the eyes a more youthful appearance. In certain cases, a lip lift is performed, removing a small segment of skin beneath the nose to create a fuller, younger upper lip without the use of fillers.

Additionally, ablative laser resurfacing can be employed simultaneously to enhance skin quality. A fractional CO₂ laser removes superficial skin layers and stimulates collagen production, reducing fine lines, pigmentation spots, and skin irregularities. This laser treatment complements the deep lift by improving skin texture and structure, contributing to a more powerful and complete rejuvenation result.

A deep plane facelift not only smooths out wrinkles but also repositions underlying tissue for a more harmonious and youthful appearance – Dr. O. Beckers

Summary

By combining a deep plane face and neck lift with additional eyelid surgery, brow lifts, lip lifts, and ablative laser treatment, both deep anatomy and skin structure are addressed integrally. This comprehensive approach ensures a naturally rejuvenated, long-lasting result for the entire face. Dr. Beckers and his team provide close guidance before, during, and after the procedure to ensure optimal results and smooth recovery.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, full facial rejuvenation carries certain risks, though these are minimal when performed carefully with proper post-operative care. Possible complications include swelling, bruising, and temporary sensory changes around the face. Due to the deep anatomical procedures, there is a slight risk of damage to the facial nerves, which may cause temporary or, rarely, permanent changes in facial expressions. Infection and post-operative bleeding are rare, due to sterile conditions and meticulous post-operative monitoring.

Laser resurfacing can cause temporary redness, swelling, and peeling of the skin, similar to a sunburn, and in rare cases, pigmentation changes or delayed wound healing. There is also the risk of suboptimal scarring, though scar management is employed to minimize this risk.

Revitalize every contour, restore timeless elegance

Recovery

The recovery process varies depending on the techniques used and the individual response of the patient. Some typical aspects of recovery include:

Immediately after surgery: After the procedure, the face is wrapped to limit swelling and support healing. You will be briefly monitored in recovery before being sent home on the same day.
Swelling and bruising: These are normal in the first two weeks and gradually subside.
Pain and discomfort: Some discomfort is expected. Dr. O. Beckers will prescribe pain medication if necessary.
Bandages and sutures: The bandage is usually removed the day after surgery. A soft facial bandage may be applied temporarily. Sutures are removed in stages: the netting after three days, the sutures in front of the ear after one week, and those behind the ear and under the chin after two weeks.
Limited activity: During the first few weeks, it is important to avoid strenuous activity to prevent disrupting the healing process. Avoid bending over or lifting as well.
Scarring: Scars typically heal well and become barely noticeable over time. Scar care will be discussed individually with Dr. O. Beckers.

Follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and minimize risks. If you have any questions or concerns, it is important to contact the clinic in a timely manner.

Prices and contact

The costs for the various treatments depend on the duration of the operation and the complexity of the procedure. During a personal consultation with Dr. Olivier Beckers will provide you with a detailed explanation about the price of the specific treatment that is relevant to you. It is important to note that this treatment is not eligible for reimbursement by the RIZIV.

Our patient coordinator, Joa Christiaenssen, is ready to answer all your questions and provide you with the information you need. Whether it concerns scheduling a consultation, discussing treatment options, arranging administrative matters or planning an operation, Joa is ready to help you.

We strive to provide you with the best possible care and service and we look forward to supporting you on your path to positive change.

Frequently asked questions

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients experience only mild swelling and sensitivity after the procedure. Pain is usually well controlled with light painkillers.

When can I resume social or professional activities?

Most patients feel comfortable enough to resume social activities or work after 10 to 14 days, depending on the nature of their job and personal healing progress.

Who will guide me before and after the procedure?

Joa, Dr. O. Beckers' personal assistant, will support you throughout the entire process. She is available for any questions, coordinates post-operative care, and also manages the lymphatic drainage sessions to optimize your recovery.

How does the recovery and aftercare process work after my facial procedure with Dr. O. Beckers?

All our facial procedures – whether it’s a deep plane facelift, deep plane necklift, or deep plane style minilift – are performed at Dr. O. Beckers' private clinic in Hasselt. Your entire aftercare will also take place at this location. Here, the sutures will be removed, RED light therapy will be applied, and lymphatic drainage will be performed to optimize your recovery.

Additionally, every patient receives a personal phone number, allowing you to contact us anytime, day or night, for any questions or concerns. This way, we guide you safely, professionally, and personally throughout the entire recovery process.

Does Dr. O. Beckers treat international patients?

Yes, Dr. O. Beckers also treats international patients. All our facial procedures are performed at the private clinic in Hasselt, Belgium, and we ensure that international patients receive the same professional guidance and aftercare as Belgian patients. This includes services such as suture removal, RED light therapy, lymphatic drainage, and personal support via a direct phone number for any questions, both before and after the procedure.

Is swelling normal after my procedure, and does it affect the final result?

Yes, swelling is a completely normal response after any facial procedure. The degree of swelling can vary between patients and depending on the type of procedure, but it gradually decreases over the weeks following the surgery. Swelling does not affect the final result; the ultimate outcome will only be fully visible once the swelling has completely subsided.

Is the overnight stay included in the price of the proposal, and how does it proceed?

Yes, for our facial rejuvenation procedures, one overnight stay is included in the price of the proposal. You will stay at our private clinic in Hasselt, where you will be continuously monitored by our night nurse. During the night, the entire focus will be on your comfort and recovery, with someone available at all times should you need assistance. The next morning, Dr. O. Beckers will visit you personally for the first care check, after which you can continue your recovery at home.

For our international patients, Joa will arrange accommodation at a nearby B&B close to the clinic. You will then return regularly for check-ups, RED light therapy, scar laser treatments, and skin advice.

Is an online consultation possible?

Yes, an online consultation is certainly possible. However, please note that Dr. O. Beckers must have seen you in person at least once before any procedure can be scheduled.

What additional procedures can be combined with a deep plane facelift?

For an optimal overall result, additional procedures can be performed, such as upper and lower eyelid surgery, brow lifts, lip lifts, and ablative laser resurfacing. These procedures respectively improve the contours of the eyes, forehead, lip shape, and skin quality. Combining these procedures with the deep plane facelift ensures a comprehensive approach, addressing both underlying anatomy and skin structure.

How is natural expression preserved during a deep plane facelift?

During the deep plane procedure, the underlying tissue is lifted as a whole, including the deep ligaments and fascia. Because the skin itself is not overly tightened, the musculature remains free to move. This ensures that facial expressions are preserved, and the result looks natural, without the "pulled" effect that can sometimes occur with traditional facelifts.

When can I resume my daily activities?

Light activities can generally be resumed after 1 to 2 weeks. However, more strenuous physical exertion, bending, or lifting should be avoided for the first 2 to 3 weeks to prevent swelling and bruising. Post-operative care, such as lymphatic drainage and RED Light Therapy, will help support a faster and more comfortable recovery.

About Dr. Olivier Beckers

Dr. Olivier Beckers is a cranio-maxillofacial surgeon specializing in aesthetic facial surgery. He completed his medical education at the University of Leuven and further specialized in aesthetic facial surgery with a focus on facelifts. His extensive expertise includes both bone and soft tissue surgery, which are intricately connected in the face. This can be compared to a tent, where the fabric (soft tissues such as skin, fat, muscles, blood vessels, and nerves) and the tent poles (the bone) together form the entire structure.

Dr. Beckers has completed several recognized fellowships abroad and earned his accreditation in aesthetic facial surgery at the University of Lyon. He offers a full range of facelift techniques and other aesthetic treatments. Whether you are interested in eyelid surgery, brow lift, lip lift, mini-facelift, or deep plane facelift, Dr. Beckers is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Let's get in touch

We offer personalized treatment plans tailored precisely to your specific desires and needs. To discover how we can help bring out your best self, we invite you to schedule a no-obligation appointment where we can explore your options together.

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