Facelift: frequently asked questions

A facelift is a personal decision that raises many questions. At the Kuzbari Centre for Aesthetic Medicine we take your concerns seriously and answer the most frequent questions clearly and comprehensibly. From preparation through the procedure to the aftercare – here you will find all the information you need to begin your path to a rejuvenated self with confidence.

Consultation and planning

How does the initial consultation for a facelift work?

The initial consultation at the Kuzbari Centre is without obligation and lasts about 60 minutes. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari or Dr. Shawqi Arafat take time to analyse your wishes and your facial anatomy. With the help of before and after photos of similar cases and a detailed discussion we visualise possible results. We explain techniques such as the deep plane facelift, the procedure, the risks and the costs. You can ask questions, for example about combinations with autologous fat transplantation or an eyelid lift. You can book appointments by telephone (+43 1 358 28 01), online or via our contact form. Our aim is for you to feel confident and to understand all the options. Your individual planning is the focus, in order to achieve a natural, rejuvenated appearance that underlines your personality.

Who is suitable for a facelift?

A facelift is suitable for people with visible signs of ageing such as slack skin, deep wrinkles, jowls or a loss of volume in the face, mostly from the age of 40. Your general health and realistic expectations are decisive. In the consultation we examine the elasticity of the skin, the bone structure and the facial proportions in order to choose the best technique, for example the deep plane facelift. Patients with slight slackening or after unsuccessful previous operations are also suitable. We advise whether minimally invasive alternatives are sufficient, in order to avoid unnatural results. Our focus is on a harmonious, natural look that preserves your facial expression and strengthens your self-confidence.

Do I need a facelift?

There are two simple criteria that help you decide whether a facelift is already appropriate for you or not.
Criterion 1: the age-related changes that bother you can only be treated satisfactorily by a facelift. It has to be borne in mind that although a facelift is a very effective method of facial rejuvenation, it is also an invasive operation. It is only appropriate if the age-related changes cannot be corrected sufficiently by other, less invasive methods. At some point minimally invasive methods such as injectable treatments reach their limits. More of them can make the face look unnatural. Then it is time to consider a facelift.
Criterion 2: the age-related changes must bother you personally a great deal. Only then is a facelift operation appropriate. It has to be remembered that a facelift is after all a lengthy operation which involves a period of convalescence and social downtime. Only if you truly want the correction of the age-related changes are you a good candidate for the operation.

Which problems can a facelift remedy?

A facelift corrects slack skin, deep nasolabial folds, jowls, marionette lines and lines on the neck. It raises sunken cheeks, tightens the jawline and compensates for loss of volume through autologous fat transplantation. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat use deep plane techniques in order to reposition deeper layers of tissue, which achieves long-lasting, natural results. Functional problems, such as impaired vision due to hooded eyelids, can be solved by an upper eyelid lift and, if necessary, a brow lift. In the consultation we analyse your facial features and plan individually. Our aim is a fresh, youthful appearance that preserves your personality without looking ‘operated on’.

How do I find the right facelift technique for me?

The choice of technique depends on your ageing process, the condition of your skin and your wishes. In the consultation Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari analyses the structure of your face and recommends, for example, a deep plane facelift for deeper tightening or a midface lift for the cheeks. Before and after photos of similar cases show possible results. Deep plane techniques tighten the skin and the SMAS (the muscle and connective tissue layer), while autologous fat compensates for loss of volume. Minimally invasive options are considered if a surgical lift is not necessary. Our aim is a natural result that preserves your facial expression. We plan to the millimetre in order to emphasise your individual beauty.

Can I see before and after photos?

Yes, in the initial consultation we show before and after photos of patients with similar starting situations, operated on by Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari or Dr. Shawqi Arafat. These illustrate results with the deep plane facelift, the neck lift or the full-facelift. Data protection is guaranteed, and the photos help to set realistic expectations. You see how wrinkles, jowls or slackening of the neck have been corrected while naturalness has been preserved. You will find more examples at www.dev.kuzbarifacelift.com. The consultation adds individual planning in order to realise your wishes. Your trust in our expertise is our aim.

How do I choose the right doctor for my facelift?

Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat are specialists in facial surgery, distinguished by numerous positive patient reviews. Their decades of experience and excellent reviews on independent review platforms confirm their competence. In the consultation you get to know your doctor in order to build trust. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat are known for deep plane techniques which deliver natural results. Our modern operating theatres, precise planning and Natürlichkeitsgarantie set us apart. Choose on the basis of empathy and expertise – we stand for experience, precision and a high degree of safety.

Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?

Yes, the facelift is often combined with a neck lift, an eyelid lift, a brow lift, autologous fat transplantation or wrinkle treatments, as with our patient Sabine. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari plans combinations in order to create a harmonious overall picture, for example an upper eyelid lift for an alert gaze or nanofat for fine lines. In the consultation we consider which procedures make sense and show before and after photos. Combinations save recovery time and optimise the aesthetics. Our deep plane technique and individual planning ensure natural results that underline your facial features without looking ‘operated on’.

How long does the planning of a facelift take?

The planning begins with a 60-minute initial consultation in which Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat analyse your facial anatomy and your wishes. After the decision, health checks, a preparatory discussion and the arrangement of appointments follow. Our team coordinates all the steps, including Kuzbari Finance for instalment payments, in order to ensure a smooth process. Your satisfaction is our aim.

What is the difference between the deep plane facelift and a conventional facelift?

The deep plane facelift, as carried out by Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari, tightens deeper layers of tissue (the SMAS and the muscles), while conventional lifts mostly treat only the skin. The deep plane technique delivers more natural, longer-lasting results (10 years), since it repositions the structure of the face without looking ‘mask-like’. Conventional lifts last for a shorter time and can look unnatural. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari often combines the deep plane technique with autologous fat transplantation in order to compensate for loss of volume.

Will I look lifted?

No, that is exactly the aim of the deep plane facelift: a natural, fresh appearance without visible signs of a lift. Your face does not look ‘pulled’ or artificial but simply rested, youthful and harmonious. Because the deeper layers of tissue are tightened, your facial expression is fully preserved. You look like yourself, only younger.

The course of the operation

How does a facelift at the Kuzbari Centre work?

The facelift is carried out in our modern operating theatres under general anaesthesia. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari begins with precise incisions in the temple area, along the crease in front of the ear and behind the ear, in order to minimise scars. In the deep plane facelift the skin, the SMAS and the muscles are tightened, often with autologous fat transplantation for volume. The operation takes several hours, depending on the region (cheeks, neck, full face). After the operation you stay 2 nights at the centre, enjoy hotel comfort and are closely looked after. Our aftercare ensures a quick recovery.

Where are the incisions made in a facelift?

The incisions are placed strategically in order to minimise scars: along the temple in the hairline, in front of the crease of the ear, around the earlobe and behind the ear. In the deep plane facelift these give access to the skin and the SMAS. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari’s precise technique ensures that scars are barely visible after healing. In the consultation we show typical courses of scars and explain how they fade. Our expertise guarantees aesthetic results with maximum discretion.

How is loss of volume in the face corrected?

Loss of volume, a main factor in ageing, is corrected by autologous fat transplantation. We take fat (for example from the abdomen), purify it and inject it into the cheeks, the lower eyelid area or the nasolabial folds. This ‘volumetric lift’ creates a youthful, fresh appearance. Autologous fat is rich in stem cells, well tolerated and long-lasting. In the consultation we plan the distribution to the millimetre, often in combination with a deep plane facelift. Before and after photos show how volume increases naturalness. Our precision ensures harmonious results.

How is a neck lift carried out?

A neck lift tightens slack skin and muscle on the neck. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat make incisions behind the ears and in the hairline, as well as behind the crease under the chin, in order to minimise scars. In the deep plane approach the SMAS layer is tightened and excess skin removed. Autologous fat can define the jawline. The procedure takes 2–4 hours under general anaesthesia or twilight sedation. Patients stay 1–2 nights at the centre. Our aftercare and precise technique ensure a natural, youthful result, as patient feedback confirms.

What happens on the day of the operation?

On the day of the operation you are received at the Kuzbari Centre, prepared and examined by Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari or Dr. Shawqi Arafat. The incisions are marked while you are sitting, in order to take gravity into account. The deep plane facelift is then carried out under general anaesthesia. After the operation you wake up in the recovery room, receive cooling pads and stay 2 nights for monitoring. Our team looks after you with hotel comfort, including meals. Detailed aftercare instructions support your recovery.

How safe is a facelift at the Kuzbari Centre?

Our operations take place in three of the most modern operating theatres in Austria, with the highest hygiene standards. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and his team specialise in facial surgery and have decades of experience. Seamless monitoring, a quality management team and availability 24/7 minimise risks such as infection or scarring. The deep plane technique reduces tissue damage, and our aftercare ensures quick healing. Patient reviews on independent review platforms praise our safety and competence. Your satisfaction and a natural result are our priority.

Costs and finance

What does a facelift at the Kuzbari Centre cost?

A deep plane facelift costs from EUR 20,000 with Dr. Shawqi Arafat and from EUR 35,000 with Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari, depending on the complexity (for example a cheek, neck or full-facelift). The ‘all-inclusive’ prices cover the consultation, the operation, the anaesthesia, the stay in the clinic (1–2 nights), the aftercare and meals. Combinations, such as with an eyelid lift, increase the cost. In the consultation you receive a transparent breakdown. Our specialisation and experience stand for a result that proves itself in the long term, as patient feedback confirms.

What is included in the price of a facelift?

Our ‘all-inclusive’ prices (from EUR 20,000 with Dr. Shawqi Arafat, from EUR 35,000 with Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari) cover the initial consultation, the operation, the general anaesthesia, the stay in the clinic (1–2 nights), the aftercare, follow-up appointments and meals with hotel comfort. There are no hidden costs. Additional procedures, such as autologous fat transplantation or an eyelid lift, are calculated individually. In the consultation we draw up a detailed breakdown of costs based on your surgical plan. Kuzbari Finance makes instalment payments possible in order to make the treatment affordable, without compromising on quality or safety.

Can I pay for the facelift in instalments?

Yes, with Kuzbari Finance you can pay the costs in instalments over up to 5 years. The application is made online and is processed simply and quickly. In the consultation we draw up a finance plan that takes your budget into account, whether for a deep plane facelift or for combinations. Our ‘all-inclusive’ prices ensure transparency, and paying in instalments makes it easier to realise your wishes without any loss of quality. Contact us on +43 1 358 28 01.

What do the costs at the Kuzbari Centre consist of?

Our prices (from EUR 20,000 with Dr. Shawqi Arafat, from EUR 35,000 with Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari) reflect the highest quality: Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari, an internationally recognised specialist, and Dr. Shawqi Arafat use the deep plane technique in the most modern operating theatres. Our ‘all-inclusive’ prices cover the consultation, the operation, the aftercare and the stay in the clinic, without hidden costs. Patient feedback on independent review platforms praises our naturalness and competence.

Are there hidden costs with a facelift?

No, our ‘all-inclusive’ prices (from EUR 20,000 with Dr. Shawqi Arafat, from EUR 35,000 with Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari) are transparent and cover the consultation, the operation, the anaesthesia, the stay in the clinic, the aftercare and meals. Additional procedures, such as an eyelid lift, are communicated clearly. In the consultation you receive a detailed breakdown of costs based on your surgical plan, for example a deep plane facelift or a full-facelift. Kuzbari Finance makes financing easier through instalment payments. Our aim is trust through clarity, as patients confirm on independent review platforms. Your satisfaction is at the centre.

How do I book an appointment for a consultation about costs?

The consultation about costs is part of the initial consultation, which is without obligation (EUR 250, credited when you book the operation). Book by telephone on +43 1 358 28 01 (Mon–Fri, 08:00–18:00), through the online appointment booking or the contact form at www.dev.kuzbarifacelift.com. We analyse your wishes, show before and after photos and draw up a transparent breakdown of costs, for example for a deep plane facelift. Kuzbari Finance offers instalment options which we adapt individually. Our team accompanies you sensitively in order to clarify your questions.

Are subsequent corrections included in the price?

Subsequent corrections are rare, since Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari’s deep plane technique and precise planning deliver optimal results. Should adjustments be necessary, we assess this individually. Smaller corrections are often included in the aftercare; larger procedures can involve additional costs. In the consultation we clarify all the details, and our ‘all-inclusive’ prices cover the aftercare. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari specialises in revision operations. Patient feedback praises our reliability. Our aim is for you to feel comfortable and to be satisfied with the result.

Risks and healing

What risks are there with a facelift?

A facelift is a demanding surgical procedure and, like every operation, involves certain risks. The most frequent, mostly temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, numbness or a feeling of tightness – these usually subside within a few weeks. Serious complications such as secondary bleeding, infection, nerve injury or conspicuous scarring are rare. Thanks to the use of modern deep plane techniques and to strict hygiene standards under Univ.-Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat, the risk is markedly minimised. In a personal consultation we clarify your individual risk situation, particularly where pre-existing conditions are present. Our state-of-the-art operating theatres, experienced anaesthesia teams and close aftercare additionally ensure maximum safety. Many patients – such as Sabine – report healing without complications and a natural-looking result. Your safety and satisfaction come first for us.

How long does healing take after a facelift?

Healing takes about 3-4 weeks for everyday life; full recovery takes 4–6 months. Swelling and bruising are barely visible after 2-3 weeks; the sutures are removed after 7–14 days. You are socially presentable after 3 weeks, often with make-up. Sport is possible after 4 weeks. Our aftercare, including cooling and follow-up appointments, speeds up the recovery. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari is available 24/7 to clarify questions. Patient feedback confirms quick, uncomplicated healing with natural results.

Is there pain after the operation?

Pain is minimal and is mostly described as a feeling of tightness. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari prescribes painkillers, and cooling pads ease any discomfort. Our deep plane technique reduces trauma to the tissue, which makes recovery easier. Patients such as Brigitte, for example, report a pleasant healing process. In the recovery room we look after you intensively, and the aftercare instructions minimise discomfort. On the website www.dev.kuzbarifacelift.com or on our Instagram page you can watch accounts by real patients of their facelift experience at the Kuzbari Centre. Should questions or complaints arise, our team is available 24/7. Your comfort and satisfaction are our aim, and our precision ensures a gentle recovery.

How long do I have sutures after the operation?

The sutures are removed painlessly after 7–14 days, usually at a follow-up appointment. Until then you should avoid make-up and aggressive skin care in order to promote healing. Our fine sutures along the crease of the ear or in the hairline are barely visible. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari gives instructions on care in order to minimise scarring. After the sutures have been removed, swelling is markedly reduced and you can resume your everyday life with care. Our aftercare ensures optimal healing, as patient feedback confirms.

Can the face look unnatural after the operation?

No, that is exactly the aim of the deep plane facelift: a natural, fresh appearance without visible signs of a lift. Your face does not look ‘pulled’ or artificial but simply rested, youthful and harmonious. Because the deeper layers of tissue are tightened, your facial expression is fully preserved. You look like yourself, only younger.

What happens in the case of unsuccessful previous operations?

Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari specialises in corrections after unsuccessful facelifts. He analyses unnatural results, scars or asymmetries and draws up an individual plan, often with deep plane techniques or autologous fat transplantation. Our experience ensures natural corrections. Patients such as Sabine, for example, report increased self-confidence after such procedures. In the consultation we discuss your case in detail and show before and after photos. Our expertise and Natürlichkeitsgarantie guarantee your satisfaction, even in complex cases.

Does the operation affect facial expression?

Our deep plane technique preserves your natural facial expression, since Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari adapts the tightening individually and protects the muscles. Unlike conventional lifts, which can look ‘mask-like’, we preserve your expressiveness. In the consultation we analyse your facial features, and autologous fat transplantation supports the harmony. Well-known patients such as Cathy Zimmerman also praise the fresh, authentic look. Our precision and decades of experience ensure a result that underlines your personality without affecting your facial expression.

Can I wear make-up after the operation?

Make-up should be avoided until the sutures are removed (7–14 days) in order to prevent infection. After that you can apply make-up carefully, ideally after consulting us at the follow-up appointment. Our care instructions promote healing, and Dr. Shawqi Arafat advises you on how to care for your skin after the operation. After 2–3 weeks make-up is possible without restriction, since the swelling subsides. We recommend light products in order to protect the scars. Our aftercare ensures a quick return to your everyday life with a fresh look.

How do I prepare for the operation?

Before the operation we carry out a health check and a consultation. Smoking should be stopped 4 weeks beforehand and blood thinners avoided. We give you a checklist, including a packing list for the stay in the clinic (2 nights). Allow 3-4 weeks of recovery time and avoid stress. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari explains all the steps, and our aftercare instructions support the preparation. In the consultation we discuss your wishes and visualise the result. Our team accompanies you in order to ensure safety and comfort.

Aftercare and long-term results

How long before I am socially presentable after the operation?

After 3-4 weeks the swelling and bruising are so slight that you are socially presentable, often with make-up or sunglasses. Desk work is possible after 7–10 days. For larger events we recommend 8–10 weeks, since residual swelling subsides over 4–6 months. Our deep plane technique and aftercare minimise the visible healing time. In the consultation we explain the course, and patient feedback confirms that they return quickly to everyday life.

When is the final result visible?

The final result is visible after 4–6 months, once the swelling has completely subsided. After 3-4 weeks the face already looks fresher, but fine details continue to develop. Our deep plane technique and autologous fat transplantation ensure a natural, long-lasting result. Regular check-ups accompany the healing, and patients such as Sabine, for example, report lasting satisfaction. In the consultation we show photos of how the result unfolds. Your youthfulness emerges step by step.

How long does the result of a facelift last?

The usual answer is 8 to 10 years. We age in spurts, however, and the tissue of the face can slacken earlier in some people and later in others. Even if the tissue slackens again after 10 years, you still look better than if you had had no lift at all. In other words, you benefit from the operation for a lifetime.

Are scars visible after a facelift?

The scars are minimal and strategically placed (temples, the crease of the ear, the hairline), so that they are barely visible after healing (2–3 months). Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari’s precise incisions and fine sutures minimise scarring. Our care instructions, such as scar massage, promote healing. In the consultation we show typical courses, and patient feedback praises the discretion. Our deep plane technique and expertise ensure aesthetic results that emphasise your naturalness.

Can I do sport after the operation?

Light sport is possible after 6 weeks and strength training after 8 weeks, so as not to endanger healing. In the first weeks avoid exertion and pressure on the face. Our deep plane technique stabilises the tissue, and the aftercare instructions support your return. In the consultation we discuss your lifestyle in order to integrate sport into your everyday life safely. Patients such as Sabine, for example, reported that they returned to activities quickly. Our care ensures an uncomplicated recovery so that you stay active.

How does the facelift affect my self-confidence?

A facelift increases self-confidence by correcting wrinkles, slack skin and loss of volume, as our patient Brigitte (64) describes: ‘My reflection matches my inner feeling again.’ Our deep plane technique creates a fresh, authentic appearance that underlines your personality. The sensitive care and the natural results strengthen your sense of well-being. Patient feedback on independent review platforms praises the quality of life after the operation. Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari fosters your self-confidence through aesthetic perfection and individual planning.

What do other patients say about their facelift?

Patients on independent review platforms praise Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and his team for their competence, empathy and natural results. One patient said: ‘The deep plane facelift has made me 10 years younger without looking ‘operated on’.’ Many value the thorough consultation, the low-pain healing and the care. Sabine reports increased self-confidence through the combination with an eyelid lift. Over 200 reviews confirm our expertise. Your satisfaction and a fresh appearance are what spur us on.

Why should I choose the Kuzbari Centre?

The Kuzbari Centre is a leader in facial surgery, with specialists such as Univ. Doz. Dr. Rafic Kuzbari and Dr. Shawqi Arafat. Our deep plane technique, our state-of-the-art operating theatres, our ‘all-inclusive’ prices and the Natürlichkeitsgarantie set us apart. Patient feedback and distinctions such as numerous positive patient reviews confirm our quality. We offer individual planning, autologous fat transplantation and combinations for harmonious results. Kuzbari Finance makes treatments affordable. Your decision in favour of greater freshness and well-being is in experienced hands with us, as hundreds of satisfied patients testify.