Frequently asked questions

A deep plane facelift releases the retaining ligaments and lifts the SMAS, the muscle layer under the skin, together with the skin as one unit. A traditional SMAS facelift tightens the skin and the SMAS separately without releasing the ligaments.

A facelift does not stop ageing. The face carries on ageing from its new starting point. Published data put the average time before a second facelift at around 11 years. It is longer for people who have their first facelift younger.

Most patients have a facelift between their late 40s and early 60s. Suitability depends more on anatomy and skin quality than on age.

The incisions sit around the ears and within the hairline. Scars usually settle and fade over the following months.

Most patients report mild discomfort, not pain. You'll receive detailed aftercare and pain management to keep you comfortable during recovery.

You can expect 2 to 3 weeks of visible swelling and bruising, with most patients returning to work or social activities within 10 to 14 days. Final results continue to improve over several months.

Yes. Common combinations include a neck lift, upper or lower eyelid surgery, a lip lift and facial fat grafting.

A neck lift addresses loose skin, banding and excess fat under the chin. It's often performed alongside a facelift for harmonious results.

Facial fat grafting involves taking your own fat from another area (usually the abdomen or thighs) and injecting it into areas of volume loss in the face for a natural, long-lasting filler effect.

You'll notice improvements straight away, but swelling and healing can take weeks to settle. Final results are typically visible after 3 to 6 months.

You'll be given a full pre-operative plan, which may include pausing certain medications, stopping smoking and arranging for someone to help you during the first few days of recovery.

Costs vary depending on the procedure's complexity and what's involved. You'll receive a detailed, fixed quote after your consultation.

Mr Christopher West is a UK trained consultant plastic surgeon on the GMC specialist register for plastic surgery. He holds MBChB, BMedSci (Hons), PhD and FRCS (Plast), with advanced training in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and a particular interest in the face and neck.

Mr West operates at the Coppergate Clinic in York and Spire Leeds Hospital. The right location is agreed at the consultation.

Look for a surgeon who specialises in the face and has good before/after results, transparent communication and a personalised approach. Mr West has a particular interest in facial plastic surgery.

Yes, virtual consultations are available and are a convenient first step if you're travelling or based outside the UK.

All surgery carries some risk. Choosing a qualified specialist who operates in a regulated environment helps reduce that risk. Mr West will walk you through the full risk profile and answer all your concerns.

A consistent skincare routine, sun protection and healthy lifestyle choices can prolong your results. Some patients opt for non-surgical treatments as touch-ups over time.

Yes. Mr West aims to restore a patient's own features, not to change them. Every operation is planned around the patient's own anatomy.

Start by booking a consultation. This is an opportunity to talk through your goals, ask questions and get personalised advice on what's right for you.