Developments in Facial Surgery and ‘Wide-Awake’ Facelifts

While the classic facelift never truly went out of style, recent trends and medical advances are fuelling a new wave of interest. From the rise of “Ozempic face” to the growing demand for subtler, more natural-looking results, people are increasingly turning to surgical options to refresh and restore their appearance in a way that lasts. One of the most talked-about developments is the rise of ‘wide-awake’ facelifts.

In this blog, we’ll explore what’s changing in the world of facial surgery, what a ‘wide-awake’ facelift actually involves, and how these innovations are shaping the future of facial rejuvenation.

Why Facelifts Are Making a Comeback

According to the BAAPS (The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), there’s been a noticeable increase in interest in facelift procedures, and it’s not just about chasing youth. Many people are now seeking subtle, age-appropriate enhancements that help them look refreshed.

Part of this trend is being fuelled by what’s become known as Ozempic face, a term used to describe the hollowed or deflated appearance some people develop after rapid weight loss, especially in the cheeks and lower face.

As more people take medications like Ozempic or simply lose weight through lifestyle changes, they’re finding that while their bodies may feel better, their faces sometimes look more tired or drawn. This is where facelift surgery can play a key role in rebalancing facial volume and lifting soft tissue, helping restore a more youthful, rested appearance.

What Is a ‘Wide-Awake’ Facelift?

Traditionally, facelift surgery has been performed under general anaesthetic. However, with advances in techniques and patient care, there’s now a growing interest in local anaesthetic facelifts, sometimes called ‘wide-awake’ facelifts. As the name suggests, these procedures are done while the patient is awake but comfortable, using local anaesthetic and sometimes light sedation.

For suitable candidates, it can mean a quicker recovery, fewer risks, and the ability to go home shortly after surgery. Some patients also prefer avoiding general anaesthetic altogether, particularly if they’ve had bad experiences with it in the past, or have medical conditions that make general anaesthesia more complex.

It’s worth noting that wide-awake techniques are usually best suited to less extensive or more targeted facelift procedures, rather than full, deep-plane facelifts. However, they can still deliver impressive results for the right patient, particularly those focused on lifting the lower face and jawline, or addressing early signs of aging.

Tailoring the Approach to Each Patient

One of the most significant developments in facial surgery is the shift toward truly individualised treatment. Today’s facelift focuses on restoring structure, repositioning soft tissue, and improving facial harmony in a way that still looks like you, just fresher.

For some patients, that could involve a classic lower facelift and neck lift to redefine the jawline and remove sagging. For others, it may include fat grafting, eyelid surgery, or non-surgical treatments to complement the surgical results. The key is choosing an approach that suits you and your lifestyle.

Mr Nigel Horlock specialises in facial rejuvenation procedures that aim for natural, long-lasting results. With years of experience in both surgical and reconstructive techniques, he tailors each procedure carefully to ensure that patients not only look great, but also feel confident in how they’ve chosen to age.

Looking Ahead

Whether it’s through advanced surgical techniques, awake procedures under local anaesthetic, or carefully planned combination treatments, there are more options than ever before to help patients look refreshed, well-rested, and entirely themselves.

If you’ve been considering facial surgery but aren’t sure what’s right for you, a consultation with Mr Horlock is the perfect place to start. He’ll guide you through the available options, including traditional and modern approaches, to help you find the solution that’s right for you.