Skin Pinch Face Lift
Mr Olivier Amar - Leading Plastic Surgeon in Chelsea, London
Skin Pinch Face Lift surgery is a minimally invasive option for patients seeking subtle facial rejuvenation
What is Skin Pinch Face Lift surgery?
The skin pinch face lift is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves targeting loose skin beneath the earlobe to enhance jawline definition and reduce neck sagging. This technique offers subtle, natural looking results with minimal recovery time and shorter scars. During the procedure, Mr Olivier Amar creates a carefully placed incision around and behind the earlobe. Excess skin is removed and sutures are strategically placed to restore natural tension along the jawline. Compared to traditional face lift surgery, the skin pinch face lift involves shorter scars and reduced bruising and swelling.
As every face is unique and we all age in different ways, Mr Olivier Amar will conduct a comprehensive facial assessment, carefully developing a tailored approach to help patients achieve subtle, natural rejuvenation, without the obvious signs of surgery. While effective for patients with moderate skin laxity on the upper neck, patients looking to address the full neck may benefit from a face and neck lift combined with Renuvion skin tightening.
The skin pinch face lift may be a good solution for:
- Individuals noticing early signs of jawline softening
- Patients seeking subtle facial rejuvenation, with long lasting results
- Those preferring a less invasive alternative to traditional face lifts
- Patients seeking to refresh their look with minimal downtime and recovery
Many patients want to reverse the early signs of ageing and appear refreshed. Skin Pinch Face Lift is a subtle alternative to traditional face lift surgery.
Your consultation
Whether meeting in person or remotely, your consultation with Mr Olivier Amar provides a comprehensive discussion of your hoped for goals and treatment options. To get the most out of your consultation, we recommend reviewing information about your area of interest beforehand.
During your consultation, Mr Olivier Amar will listen to your desired outcomes and goals, conduct a thorough assessment, present appropriate treatment options and explain procedures in detail. This will include a step-by-step surgical process, required preparation, recovery timeline, scar placement and management, anaesthesia options, and potential risks and complications.
A consultation ensures you receive comprehensive information about all options, and understand both benefits and limitations of proposed procedures. You will have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you wish before you decide the next steps together, including the option to take no action.
Advanced Facial Rejuvenation
Mr Olivier Amar specialises in facial rejuvenation procedures. As every face is unique and we all age in different ways, he will conduct a comprehensive facial assessment, carefully developing a tailored approach to help patients achieve subtle, natural rejuvenation, without the obvious signs of surgery.
Risks associated with surgery
Every surgical procedure, while performed with the utmost care and expertise, carries inherent risks. Mr Olivier Amar ensures all patients are fully informed about potential complications before proceeding with any treatment.
General surgical risks include post-operative infection, bleeding and haematoma formation, scarring and wound healing complications, and anaesthesia related complications. During your consultation, Mr Olivier Amar will provide detailed information about procedure specific risks, explain preventive measures and safety protocols, answer all questions about potential complications and provide you with all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Preparing for Your Surgery
All surgical procedures are teamwork between the surgeon and the patient. Just as a runner trains for a marathon, preparation is key for optimal recovery.
From the time you book the procedure ensure you maintain regular, gentle exercise, follow a balanced, nutritious diet, ensure adequate sleep and rest, and manage stress levels effectively. Alcohol consumption should be reduced and smoking stopped or minimised. If a patient feels prepared for surgery, they will arrive for their procedure feeling positive which in turn will reduce any anxiety and encourage stress free recovery.
The day before surgery, our dedicated pre-assessment nursing team will reconfirm your admission time, review fasting requirements, address any last minute questions and provide final preparation instructions.
Type of anaesthesia
Skin pinch face lift surgery can be performed under local anaesthesia or under total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA), a technique of anaesthesia which uses a combination of agents given exclusively via the intravenous route without the use of gas anaesthesia. This means you will sleep comfortably throughout the procedure and wake immediately afterwards with a significantly reduced likelihood of feeling groggy or nauseous. The anaesthesia will be explained to you by your Anaesthetist during the preoperative consultation.
Having surgery under local anaesthesia or total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) allows you to go home the same day to rest and recuperate. Alternatively, we are happy to arrange the procedure at a hospital with an overnight stay facility, organise a nurse to stay with you overnight, or assist with local accommodation arrangements. Mr Olivier Amar will discuss your anaesthesia options and aftercare support in detail during your consultation.
Recovery Guide
After surgery, you will experience bruising and swelling around the neck and chin area. To minimise swelling during the initial recovery period, keep your head elevated. When sleeping, use additional pillows to maintain this elevated position. Immediately after surgery you can expect mild pain and discomfort, which can be managed by a pain killer prescription, provided on the day of surgery by your anaesthetist, if required.
Most patients find that bruising and swelling subsides within two to three weeks after the procedure. You may experience a sensation of tightness, particularly behind the ears and around the neck – this is normal and typically resolves after around one month. Depending on the type of daily activities, you should be able to resume daily activities within 7-10 days and return to gentle exercise after approximately 3 weeks.
Aftercare Information
Immediately after surgery, Mr Olivier Amar will apply a bandage to your face and under your chin to minimise bruising and swelling. At your first post-operative appointment with the nurse, scheduled for the day after surgery, this initial bandage will be removed. You will return for post-operative appointments with the nurse at 7 days and 14 days. With stitches removed in two stages: front of ears removed after 7 days and back of ears removed after 14 days.
During your post-operative appointments, incision sites will be reviewed, stitches removed and initial healing will be assessed. A follow-up consultation with Mr Olivier Amar will be scheduled for six weeks after your surgery to assess your overall recovery.
It is your responsibility to attend all scheduled appointments. Failing to attend appointments or follow post-operative instructions may impact your results and final outcome. Regular monitoring ensures optimal healing progression and early detection of complications. Mr Olivier Amar will discuss the post-operative schedule in detail during your consultation.
Scar placement and management
Skin pinch face lift scars will be almost completely hidden in the hairline or around the ears. Scar healing time varies, but most scars are red at first, change to purple, then fade to become paler over 12 months. As a leading London based cosmetic surgeon, Mr Olivier Amar specialises in advanced scar management and prevention techniques. Leading up to your surgery or as part of your post-surgical care, a scar management protocol may be initiated using steroid injections and silicone dressings. A treatment course of Aerolase Neo laser is recommended post-surgery.
The Aerolase Neo laser treatment offers significant benefits for scar improvement:
- Stimulates natural collagen production
- Reduces scar pigmentation
- Improves skin texture and appearance
- Softens scar tissue
- Promotes tissue remodelling
- Accelerates bruise healing
Maintaining your results
The initial results can be seen immediately after surgery, however, it can take a few weeks for swelling and bruising to fully subside. The result of skin pinch face lift surgery can be best appreciated after 3-6 months.
Some patients opt to support their results with Aerolase Neo laser treatment for skin rejuvenation. The laser treatment stimulates natural collagen production, which is essential for improving skin firmness and elasticity, smoothing rough texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and minimising enlarged pores. Typically, most patients see noticeable results after four treatments with enhanced clearance and quality of skin occurring after each subsequent treatment. It is also recommended that you commit to wearing sun protection daily and follow an at home skincare regimen.
Is Skin Pinch Face Lift surgery right for you?
As we age, several changes occur in our facial structure, including decreased skin elasticity, muscle relaxation and natural fat loss. The rate we age varies from person to person and may be determined by genetic factors. The stresses of daily life, the effect of gravity, exposure to the sun and drastic weight loss can all age the face. Addressing ageing concerns early can often delay the need for more extensive surgical procedures in the future. A skin pinch face lift focuses on areas where excess skin can be pinched, typically around the lower face and neck. The procedure targets:
- Jawline and chin: Tightens sagging skin along the jawline, improves the appearance of jowls and creates a more defined jawline
- Neck and under chin: Addresses loose skin beneath the chin, reduces the appearance of a “double chin” and smooths the neck area for a firmer look
- Lower face: Firms and lifts the skin around the lower cheeks and nasolabial folds (the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth), providing a smoother, more youthful contour to the face
Can other procedures be performed at the same time?
For comprehensive facial rejuvenation, some patients opt to combine procedures to address both upper and lower facial ageing simultaneously, achieving more harmonious, balanced results. Many patients combine their skin pinch face lift with treatments such as:
- Chin & neck liposuction to address a double chin or reduce fullness in the neck area
- Lateral temporal brow lift to address sagging skin around the peri-orbital region
- Fat transfer to face for volume restoration to the orbital and mouth areas
- Nano fat transfer to under eye area, face and neck for improved skin tone and texture
- Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) to address sagging and hooded eyelids
- Renuvion skin tightening and micro liposuction to chin and neck for improved skin laxity and lower face contouring
- Direct brow lift to elevate dropping eyebrows
To boost skin hydration and enhance collagen production on the face and neck, some patients opt to introduce Polynucleotide injections. Polynucleotides are an injectable bio-stimulator treatment that harnesses natural polymerised polynucleotide based injectable gel technology to effectively restore skin firmness, tone and elasticity. The treatment involves a series of polynucleotide injections that stimulate skin regeneration from within. This comprehensive approach restores skin tone, enhances hydration and visibly reduces wrinkles, resulting in radiant, luminous skin with improved texture and diminished signs of ageing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does skin pinch face lift surgery take?
The procedure can take between 1-2 hours depending on the specific requirements and complexity of the case.
WHERE WILL THE INCISIONS BE POSITIONED?
Skin pinch face lift incisions will be almost completely hidden in the hairline or around the ears. Scar healing time varies, but most scars are red at first, change to purple, then fade to become paler over 12 months.
Am I suitable for skin pinch face lift surgery?
As we age, several changes occur in our facial structure, including decreased skin elasticity, muscle relaxation and natural fat loss. Addressing ageing concerns early can often delay the need for more extensive surgical procedures in the future. Skin pinch face lift is a good option for patients with mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and neck, particularly those who have excess skin that can be “pinched” around the ear lobe area.
Ideal candidates for this procedure include:
- Individuals noticing early signs of jawline softening
- Patients seeking subtle facial rejuvenation, with long lasting results
- Those preferring a less invasive alternative to traditional face lifts
- Patients seeking to refresh their look with minimal downtime and recovery
When can I shower and wash my hair after skin pinch face lift surgery?
In general, you may gently shower and wash your hair 48 hours after surgery, taking particular care on the treated areas. Avoiding the use of any strong shampoo or rubbing around the incision areas. It’s important to avoid direct water pressure on the surgical area during the first few days to prevent irritation or infection.
You can also blow dry your hair on a cool setting. Be gentle when brushing or combing your hair so that you do not catch your comb in the suture lines.
Is skin pinch face lift surgery painful?
After surgery, you will experience bruising and swelling around the neck and chin area. To minimise swelling during the initial recovery period, keep your head elevated. When sleeping, use additional pillows to maintain this elevated position. Immediately after surgery you can expect mild pain and discomfort, which can be managed by a pain killer prescription, provided on the day of surgery by your anaesthetist, if required.
Most patients find that bruising and swelling subsides within two to three weeks after the procedure. You may experience a sensation of tightness, particularly behind the ears and around the neck – this is normal and typically resolves after around one month.
When can I return to exercise after surgery?
Depending on the type of daily activities, you should be able to resume daily activities within 7-10 days and return to gentle exercise after approximately 3 weeks.
How should I prepare for surgery?
From the time you book the procedure ensure you maintain regular, gentle exercise, follow a balanced, nutritious diet, ensure adequate sleep and rest, and manage stress levels effectively. Alcohol consumption should be reduced and smoking stopped or minimised. If a patient feels prepared for surgery, they will arrive for their procedure feeling positive which in turn will reduce any anxiety and encourage stress free recovery.
What is Skin Pinch Face Lift surgery?
The skin pinch face lift is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves targeting loose skin beneath the earlobe to enhance jawline definition and reduce neck sagging. This technique offers subtle, natural looking results with minimal recovery time and shorter scars.
During the procedure, Mr Olivier Amar creates a carefully placed incision around and behind the earlobe. Excess skin is removed and sutures are strategically placed to restore natural tension along the jawline. Compared to traditional face lift surgery, the skin pinch face lift involves shorter scars and reduced bruising and swelling. While effective for patients with moderate skin laxity on the upper neck, patients looking to address the full neck may benefit from a mini lower face and neck lift with Renuvion procedure.
WHEN WILL I SEE THE RESULTS OF the SURGERY
The initial results can be seen immediately after surgery, however, it can take a few weeks for swelling and bruising to fully subside. The result of skin pinch face lift surgery can be best appreciated after 3-6 months.
WHAT IS POOR SCARRING?
A ‘good’ scar fades significantly after appearing and blends in with the surrounding skin tone. A ‘poor’ scar, such as a keloid or hypertrophic scar, will stay visible and cause skin irritation for a few months after formation. Time is the best healer as eventually normal scars and hypertrophic scars will mature and become pale.
Meet Olivier Amar – Leading Plastic Surgeon in Chelsea, London
Mr Olivier Amar is a renowned London based consultant plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon specialising in face, breast and body surgery, advanced non-surgical facial rejuvenation, hair loss treatments and regenerative medicine. With over 15 years of experience, Mr Olivier Amar has earned a reputation among both patients and peers alike for transforming cosmetic surgery into an art form.
“Cosmetic surgery is a demanding profession and patient expectations are high. But I am a doctor first and a surgeon second. My only concern is the patient in front of me, fulfilling their needs and managing their expectations. My work is intense; it means everything to me and is my lifelong passion.”
Mr Amar’s commitment to precision and refinement extends through every aspect of patient care, from initial consultation to post-operative support. All treatments take place at his private practice in Chelsea, London. Working alongside Mr Amar is a highly skilled team of dedicated nurses, experienced anaesthetists from leading NHS and private hospitals, and specialised management staff. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive, world class care for all patients.
How can I compliment my overall result?
Express PRP treatment
The goal of PRP treatment is to rejuvenate your skin and encourage new collagen.
