Typically, an incision is made within the hairline of the temples, then curves around the front of the ear, up the back of the ear and then is hidden into the hairline on the back of the head. After this is done, most surgeons will then free up the next layer of tissue which has muscle and fascia. This layer is commonly referred to as the SMAS, or subcutaneous musculo-aponeurotic system. This tougher tissue is then sutured higher up on the face acting as the main support for the face-lift. The skin is then gently redraped and the excess skin is excised along the original incision line.
People often wonder if the hair needs to be shaved.
No it doesn't. If there is a lot of sagging in the neck area, or perhaps a lot of fat hanging under the chin, then some preliminary tasks may need to be performed in conjunction with the face-lift. Liposuction might first be done to remove excess fat. It basically is done on the patient who has a clean neckline and is just starting to get some drooping in the cheek and jowl area. Through a small incision, hidden behind the hairline above the ear, the skin is carefully elevated from the underlying tissues.