FACELIFT
A boutique anti-aging clinic in Seoul where four Seoul National University-trained plastic surgeons design every facelift around the geometry of your face — never a template.
4 SNU-trained
Board-Certified Surgeons
Real-name
Surgery Guarantee · Operative Report in English
Dedicated
Anesthesiologist for General Anesthesia (Dr. Jung Eunjin, SNU)
Home / Procedures / Facelift
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that repositions the SMAS layer to restore the structural geometry of the midface, jowls, and neck. At ETONNE, performed by four SNU-trained plastic surgeons using SMAS, deep plane, and extended deep plane techniques. Recovery: 7–14 days social, 6–12 months final. No markup for international patients.
A facelift, medically called rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that restores the natural structure of the midface, jawline, and neck by repositioning the underlying SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer and tightening sagging soft tissue.
At ETONNE in Gangnam, our four board-certified surgeons — all trained at Seoul National University Hospital — perform SMAS, deep plane, and mini facelift techniques tailored to each patient's anatomy.
Unlike volume-driven "factory" clinics, ETONNE operates as a single-location boutique practice in Gangnam-daero, Seoul. The surgeon you consult with performs your entire operation, with a dedicated board-certified anesthesiologist on site for every general anesthesia case.
TECHNIQUES
The foundational modern technique. The surgeon dissects beneath the skin, plicates or repositions the SMAS layer, and trims excess skin. Durable, natural results for moderate jowling, ages 45–60.
Releases the retaining ligaments and elevates the entire SMAS-platysma flap as a single unit. Addresses nasolabial folds, jowls, and midface in one continuous lift. Longevity 8–12 years. See dedicated page →
For significant neck laxity. Single continuous tension vector from cheek to clavicle, eliminating any "step-off" between face and neck. See the neck lift page →
For ages 35–45 with early jowls. Shorter incision, limited SMAS plication. Recovery 5–7 days. See dedicated page →
Minimally invasive variation popular among patients in their late 30s and 40s. Short hidden incisions in the temple area lift along ETONNE's signature Faberge vector. See dedicated page →
For patients not yet candidates for surgical facelift. Different category.
SIGNATURE APPROACH
ETONNE's surgical philosophy avoids the "wind-tunnel" or pulled appearance of older Western facelift techniques. The Korean approach — the "Glass Skin Facelift" overseas patients seek — emphasizes:
PRICING
There is no markup for international patients and the quote comes from the clinic.
| Procedure | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Facelift | Quoted at consultation | Short-scar SMAS plication |
| SMAS Facelift | Quoted at consultation | Full facelift with SMAS dissection |
| Deep Plane Facelift | Quoted at consultation | Includes retaining ligament release |
| Extended Deep Plane (Face + Neck) | Quoted at consultation | Includes platysmaplasty |
| Add-on: Lower Blepharoplasty | Quoted at consultation | Common bundle |
ETONNE does not work through third-party booking platforms. We offer direct booking via WhatsApp — there is no markup for international patients.
For full pricing breakdown including VAT refund elimination effective January 1, 2026, see Cost of Plastic Surgery in Korea — 2026 Guide.
RECOVERY
Days 1–7
Significant swelling and bruising. Bandage on the head for the first 24–48 hours. Sleep elevated. Stitches typically removed at day 7. You will not look "presentable" by Western standards yet.
Days 8–14
Bruising fades from purple to yellow-green. Swelling visibly drops. Light makeup possible from around day 10. Most international patients fly home in this window.
Days 15–30
Swelling continues to subside. Tightness and numbness around the ears persist — normal. Light exercise (walking) permitted from week 3.
1–3 Months
80–90% of swelling resolved. The face begins to look "settled" and natural. Strenuous exercise resumes.
6–12 Months
Final scar maturation and tissue settling. The face continues to soften subtly through month 12. The 12-month result is the true endpoint.
For a day-by-day photo diary, see Facelift Recovery Timeline.
FAQ
A mini facelift in Korea typically refers to a short-scar SMAS plication addressing early jowls and nasolabial folds, indicated for patients aged 35–45 with good skin elasticity. At ETONNE, the mini facelift fee is quoted at consultation, with no markup for international patients.
Yes. At ETONNE, the surgeon you meet during consultation performs your full operation from incision to closure. A board-certified anesthesiologist (Dr. Jung Eunjin, SNU Hospital trained) is present for every general anesthesia case. You receive an operative report in English within 7 days of surgery, naming the exact technique used.
Thread lifts produce limited, temporary results (typically 6–18 months). For patients seeking durable structural correction, a mini or full facelift is the appropriate intervention. See detailed comparison.
At ETONNE, deep plane facelift fees are quoted individually at consultation, with no markup for international patients. Booking is direct via WhatsApp.
Yes. Our surgeons routinely perform deep plane facelifts on patients in their 60s and 70s, with technique adjustments for thinner skin and reduced subcutaneous fat. Tissue handling protocols are individualized at consultation.
SCHEDULE
Free WhatsApp consultation. Surgeon-led. English. Response within 24 hours.
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