A New Yorker’s Preservation Deep Plane Facelift in Turkey
Discover why a New Yorker chose Turkey for a deep plane facelift. Read her story of facial rejuvenation & see the stunning 5-day before & after video.
For many, the decision to undergo plastic surgery is a deeply personal one, often contemplated for years. When Viktoria, a vibrant Russian woman living in the heart of New York City, decided it was time to align her appearance with her inner vitality, she began a journey that would lead her to my clinic in Istanbul. Viktoria’s story is a testament to the transformative power of modern facial rejuvenation, a path she chose with care, seeking not to change who she is, but to restore a more youthful version of herself. This is her story of undergoing a comprehensive facial rejuvenation, including a preservation extended deep plane face and neck lift, rhinoplasty, upper and lower blepharoplasty, and nanofat injections.
The Consultation: Bridging Continents with a Shared Vision
Viktoria’s initial consultation was a virtual one, a bridge spanning from New York to Istanbul. She expressed a common concern I hear from my American patients: a desire for a refreshed, natural look, not an operated-on appearance. She was seeing the inevitable signs of aging—sagging in the lower face and neck, tired-looking eyes, and a loss of youthful volume. She also had long-held desires to refine the shape of her nose.
We discussed her goals at length, and I explained my philosophy: to create harmonious, natural-looking results that respect each patient’s unique anatomy. I detailed the procedures that would best address her concerns, a comprehensive approach to restore and rejuvenate. For Viktoria, this meant a combination of procedures, each chosen to address a specific aspect of facial aging and aesthetics.
Viktoria's rhinoplasty before and after photo:
The Surgical Plan: A Symphony of Procedures for a Harmonious Result
Viktoria's personalized surgical plan was designed to address her concerns in a single, comprehensive operation. This approach not only provides a more balanced and harmonious outcome but also streamlines the recovery process.
Preservation Extended Deep Plane Face and Neck Lift: This advanced technique is my choice and the cornerstone of modern facial rejuvenation. Unlike traditional facelifts that can sometimes result in a "pulled" look, the preservation deep plane technique works on a deeper level. By releasing and repositioning the underlying facial ligaments and muscles (the SMAS layer), we can lift and restore the natural, youthful contours of the face and neck. This "preservation" approach minimizes tissue trauma, leading to a quicker recovery and more natural-looking, long-lasting results. For patients from the USA seeking the best facelift surgeon, understanding the nuances of techniques like the deep plane facelift is crucial for making an informed decision.
Rhinoplasty: Viktoria desired a more refined and balanced nose that would complement her facial features. The goal is never to create a "one-size-fits-all" nose, but to reshape it in a way that honors and enhances the patient's unique facial harmony. For Viktoria, this meant subtle refinements to the bridge and tip, creating a result that was both beautiful and uniquely her own.
Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty: The eyes are often the first area to show signs of aging. For Viktoria, upper and lower blepharoplasty would address the tired appearance she disliked. Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin from the upper eyelids, creating a more open and refreshed look. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags and puffiness, resulting in a smoother, more youthful transition from the lower eyelid to the cheek. The recovery from blepharoplasty is relatively quick, with most swelling and bruising subsiding within the first couple of weeks.
Nanofat Injection to the Face: To restore the youthful volume that is naturally lost with age, I recommended nanofat injections. This innovative technique uses the patient's own fat, which is harvested, purified, and then processed into a very fine, liquid consistency. This "nanofat" is rich in stem cells and growth factors, which not only add volume but also improve skin quality and texture. It's a natural and long-lasting alternative to synthetic fillers, and a key component of a truly comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
The Journey to Istanbul: A Seamless Experience
For many of my international patients, the prospect of traveling to another country for surgery can be daunting. My clinic is certified as an international health tourism center by the Turkish Ministry of Health, and my team is dedicated to providing a seamless and supportive experience for our patients from the moment they arrive. From airport transfers to accommodation and post-operative care, we ensure that every detail is taken care of, allowing our patients to focus on their recovery and enjoy the renowned Turkish hospitality. Turkey has become a global destination for medical tourism, offering a combination of highly skilled surgeons, advanced medical technology, and affordable prices.
Recovery: A Glimpse at Day 5
Read my blogpost: Navigating Facelift Recovery: Role of the Pressure Garment
The before-and-after photos and video testimonial you see of Viktoria were taken just five days after her surgery. This is a crucial point in the recovery process, and it’s important for potential patients to have a realistic understanding of what to expect. At day five, swelling and bruising are still present, which is a normal part of the healing process. However, even at this early stage, the improvements are already visible.
The initial recovery period for a combined procedure like Viktoria's typically involves a few days of rest and limited activity. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated to minimize swelling and to follow a diet of soft foods. Pain is generally well-managed with prescribed medication. By the end of the first week, many patients are feeling well enough to resume light activities.
Viktoria’s video testimonial, spoken in her native Russian, captures her initial impressions and her satisfaction with the early results. While the final outcome will continue to refine over the coming weeks and months as the swelling completely subsides, her 5-day photos offer a powerful glimpse into the transformative potential of these procedures.
Read my blogpost: Pixie Ear Deformity After Facelift: Prevention & Correction
The Result: A Refreshed and Natural-Looking You
Viktoria’s journey is a beautiful example of how a comprehensive and thoughtfully planned approach to facial rejuvenation can achieve truly remarkable results. Her decision to travel from New York to Istanbul for her surgery was based on a desire for a surgeon with a deep understanding of facial anatomy and a commitment to natural-looking outcomes.
As a double board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive international training, including a fellowship with the world-renowned Dr. Raul Gonzalez in Brazil, I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of care and expertise. My goal is always to create results that are not only beautiful but also uniquely suited to each individual.
If you are considering facial rejuvenation surgery, I encourage you to do your research, ask questions, and choose a surgeon whose philosophy and aesthetic align with your own. For those in the USA and other English-speaking countries, I invite you to explore the possibilities of a journey to Istanbul for a transformative experience of your own.
Watch other real patient stories here !
