This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
“Ponytail facelift” is a non‑standard term commonly used to describe a group of short‑scar/temporal lift approaches that may be used to reposition tissues in the upper and mid‑face in selected patients. Technique selection depends on anatomy and the areas being addressed. A consultation is required to confirm suitability and to discuss expected change, scarring, recovery, and risks. Scars are always present after surgery and vary in appearance.
Short‑scar/temporal lift (techniques) approaches often involve incisions within the hair‑bearing scalp and/or around the ear, with tissue repositioning and fixation. They may be discussed for selected patterns of laxity and do not suit all patients. Your surgeon will assess facial structure, skin quality, and the degree of laxity before recommending an approach.
Potential physical changes may include:
– Repositioning of upper/mid‑face tissues in selected cases (degree varies).
– Change in the appearance of cheek and lateral eye region contour in suitable candidates (not guaranteed).
– In selected cases, less extensive incision patterns compared with some traditional facelift approaches (trade‑offs apply).
Outcomes vary and symmetry cannot be guaranteed.
A suitable candidate is generally a healthy adult seeking assessment for upper/mid‑face lift options, with realistic expectations about scarring, recovery, and variability.
You May Be a Good Candidate If
– You have mild to moderate facial laxity in areas that may suit a limited approach (assessment required).
– You are open to discussing whether a limited approach is suitable or whether a different procedure is recommended.
– You understand that results vary and scars are permanent.
– You can stop nicotine use as directed and follow aftercare instructions.
– You have significant lower‑face/neck laxity where a different approach may be recommended (assessment required).
– You have uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk.
– You are unable to stop nicotine use where clinically required.
– You have unrealistic expectations about outcomes or scarring.
Technique selection is individual and based on your anatomy, goals and safety considerations. Options may include:
– Limited‑incision facelift approaches (selected cases): technique and incision placement depend on anatomy.
– Tissue repositioning: may involve SMAS/other layers depending on the plan.
– Combination planning: in selected cases, neck procedures or other facial procedures may be recommended instead.
Your clinician/surgeon will explain the recommended approach and expected trade‑offs during consultation.
Anesthesia
Commonly performed under general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of surgery.
You will receive individual instructions. Common requirements may include:
– Medication and supplement review, including anything that can increase bleeding risk (as advised).
– Nicotine cessation for the recommended period before and after treatment/surgery (if applicable).
– Planning time off work, transport, and at-home support (where relevant).
– Fasting instructions prior to anaesthesia (if applicable).
– Pre-operative assessments/tests as advised by your treating team.
Return to Work: often 2–3 weeks depending on bruising and role.
Return to Exercise: strenuous exercise commonly restricted for ~6 weeks or until cleared.
Assessing outcome: results are assessed over months as swelling settles.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
