What is a revision facelift?
Most facelift problems come from one of two causes. Either the deeper layer was not lifted securely, so the jowls and neck return within a year or two, or the skin was pulled to do the work, which leaves a tight, flat or wind-swept look and scars that stretch and widen.
A revision facelift addresses the cause rather than tightening again. The deep tissue is lifted in its own plane, often using a deep plane technique, so the skin can be closed without tension. Scars are repositioned into natural creases where possible, and a pulled earlobe can be reshaped in the same operation.
Who needs a revision facelift?
- Jowls or neck bands returning within a year or two of a facelift.
- A pulled or wind-swept appearance, especially around the mouth and cheeks.
- Wide, raised or visible scars in front of or behind the ear.
- A pulled-down or attached earlobe (sometimes called a pixie ear).
- A shifted temple hairline or sideburn after the first operation.
If only the neck has relaxed, a targeted neck lift may be a smaller step than a full revision.
Full revision, partial revision or non-surgical?
| Full revision facelift | Partial revision | Non-surgical | |
| Treats | Relapse of face and neck | Scars, earlobe or one area | Skin quality, mild laxity |
| Anaesthesia | General | Local with sedation | None or topical |
| Downtime | 2–3 weeks | 1–2 weeks | 0–3 days |
| Longevity | Many years | Long-lasting | Months |
| Best timing | 6–12 months after first surgery | Once scars have matured | Any time |
Where the problem is mainly skin texture after surgery, devices such as Thermage FLX can help without another operation.
How is revision facelift surgery done?
Before & after
Before
After
More facelift cases are in the before & after gallery.
What is recovery like after a revision facelift?
| Day 1–3 | Swelling, tightness and some bruising; compression and head elevation. |
|---|---|
| Day 7–14 | Stitches removed in stages; most bruising has faded. |
| Week 3–4 | Comfortable in public with light make-up; numbness around the ears improves. |
| Month 3–6 | Firmness from scar tissue softens and the final result appears. |
Healing after revision can be slightly slower than after a first facelift. The clinic's hyperbaric oxygen chamber is used to support recovery.
“In a revision I am undoing tension, not adding more. The face should look rested, not tighter.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of revision facelift surgery?
Revision surgery carries the same risks as a first facelift — bleeding, haematoma, infection, numbness, and temporary or rarely permanent facial nerve weakness — and some are a little more likely because scar tissue changes the blood supply and anatomy. Smoking significantly increases the risk of poor skin healing. Some problems, such as very thin skin, can be improved but not fully reversed, and Dr. Lee will tell you honestly what is achievable.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after my first facelift can I have a revision?
Usually after 6–12 months, once swelling and scar tissue have settled. Small scar revisions may be possible a little earlier.
Can a pulled earlobe be fixed?
Yes. The earlobe can be released and reshaped, often under local anaesthesia, either alone or as part of a revision.
Will my scars be longer?
Not necessarily. Old scars are reused where possible and moved into better positions when they are poorly placed.
My first surgery was in another clinic. Can Dr. Lee still help?
Yes. Bring or send any records you have; Dr. Lee will assess what was done from the examination even without them.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
Allow about two weeks so stitches can be removed and healing checked.
Is a revision facelift riskier than a first facelift?
Slightly, because of scar tissue, which is why it is planned conservatively by an experienced surgeon.