A revision facelift is surgery for people who have already had facelift surgery and are now considering further facial surgery. This information has been prepared for patients of Dr Michael Kernohan – Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, who consults in Gregory Hills and cares for patients from Campbelltown, Liverpool and the broader South West Sydney region.
A revision facelift is usually an aesthetic procedure, although in some cases it may also help where scarring, tightness or tissue changes are affecting comfort or function. The aim is to address age related changes or specific concerns after a previous facelift, while recognising the limitations that come with scar tissue and altered anatomy.
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What Is Revision Facelift?
A revision facelift, sometimes called a secondary facelift, is a facelift procedure performed after an earlier facelift or neck lift. The tissues of the face and neck have already been lifted and repositioned once, so the surgeon is working in an area that has scar tissue and changes from the first operation.
A revision facelift may:
- Address changes in the lower face and jawline that have developed over time
- Adjust laxity or banding in the neck region
- Refine or reposition scars where this is possible
- Improve selected contour irregularities or areas of tightness
The procedure can influence both appearance and, in some cases, function. For example, some patients report tightness, pulling or banding after their first surgery. In suitable cases, revision surgery may help improve these issues.
Every case is individual. In Sydney, Dr Michael Kernohan considers the details of previous procedures, current examination findings and overall health before discussing whether revision surgery is appropriate.
Download Dr Kernohan’s Facelift Surgery Guide
Who May Consider Revision Facelift
People may consider a revision facelift for several clinical or anatomical reasons, such as:
- Ongoing or recurrent laxity in the lower face or neck many years after the first facelift
- Deepening of folds around the mouth or changes in jawline definition as ageing progresses
- Prominent scars around the ears or hairline that have not settled in a satisfactory way
- Areas of tightness, pulling or skin bunching following the earlier procedure
- Noticeable asymmetry between the two sides of the face or neck
- Localised contour irregularities, such as hollowing or fullness in particular areas
- Changes related to complications that occurred after the first facelift
Revision facelift is not suitable for everyone. Factors such as general health, medical conditions, smoking, previous scarring patterns and skin quality all influence suitability. Dr Michael Kernohan will explain when further surgery may not be advisable and discuss alternative options if needed.
Possible Benefits Of Revision Facelift
A revision facelift may provide certain improvements. Possible benefits can include:
- Better structural support for areas of the lower face and neck that have changed over time
- Adjustment of scar position or quality where this is technically possible
- Improvement in facial balance if some asymmetry can be addressed
- Refinement of selected contour irregularities and tissue irregularities
- Possible improvement in tightness or pulling caused by previous scarring
These benefits are not guaranteed and vary between individuals. Revision surgery often involves compromise. The goal is realistic improvement rather than complete correction. During consultation, Dr Michael Kernohan will outline which changes may be achievable in your case and which are unlikely to respond to further surgery.
Before And After Photos For Revision Facelift
For aesthetic procedures, including revision facelift, before and after photos may be available:
- During consultation in the Gregory Hills rooms or other Sydney locations
- In a practice gallery that complies with current AHPRA guidance
These images are used for education only. They show examples of what has been possible for other patients, but they cannot predict your own result. Photos are shown with patient consent and are not altered to change the surgical outcome.
Facelift Before and After Photo
Disclaimer: All surgical or invasive procedures come with inherent risks, and results can vary widely between individuals due to factors like lifestyle, anatomy, overall health, weight, and nutrition. We encourage you to conduct thorough research and consider seeking a second opinion from a qualified healthcare provider.
Consultation For Revision Facelift
When you see Dr Michael Kernohan – Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Gregory Hills, Campbelltown or Liverpool, the consultation is designed to provide detailed assessment and clear information.
✓ Discussion Of Personal Goals And Health History
You will usually discuss:
- Your general health, medical conditions and medication history
- Previous operations, including your earlier facelift or neck lift
- What you noticed after the first procedure and how these changes have developed
- What you are hoping may be improved with revision surgery
✓ Clinical Examination And Review Of Earlier Surgery
The consultation may include:
- Examination of the face, jawline and neck
- Assessment of scars, skin quality and soft tissue support
- Consideration of facial balance and areas of concern
- Review of any previous operation notes, letters or photographs if you can provide them
✓ Treatment Options And Planning
Based on this information, Dr Michael Kernohan will:
- Advise whether revision facelift is clinically reasonable for you
- Discuss any possible additional or related procedures, for example work on the neck or eyelids, if appropriate
- Explain what can and cannot be changed, taking into account scar tissue and anatomy
- Outline the likely pattern of recovery and follow up
✓ Shared Decision Making
You will have time to ask questions and think about your options. Patients are encouraged to:
- Take written information home
- Discuss their situation with their GP or another trusted health practitioner
- Seek a second opinion if they wish
As Dr Kernohan often explains, his role is to provide clear information about options, risks and realistic expectations so that decisions can be made carefully.
How Revision Facelift Is Performed
The exact operation varies from person to person. The following steps are general only.
✓ Anaesthesia
- Revision facelift is usually performed under general anaesthesia
- A specialist anaesthetist manages your care and monitoring during surgery
✓ Surgical Setting
- Surgery is carried out in a private hospital or accredited facility
- Standard safety and infection control protocols are followed
✓ General Surgical Steps
In broad terms, the operation may involve:
- Marking the face and neck before surgery while you are upright
- Planning incisions that incorporate or refine existing scars as much as possible
- Lifting skin and deeper tissues in a careful manner, taking account of scar tissue
- Adjusting supporting structures of the face and neck, where appropriate
- Redraping the skin without excessive tension
- Closing incisions in layers with attention to scar placement
✓ Duration Of Surgery
Revision facelift often takes longer than a first facelift because of:
- Scar tissue from the earlier operation
- The need to proceed more cautiously around altered anatomy
- Additional adjustments that may be required
✓ Techniques Used
The technique will depend on:
- How your first facelift was performed
- Which areas of the face and neck are of concern
- The quality of the skin, underlying tissues and support structures
Dr Michael Kernohan will explain the planned approach in your case and whether any additional procedures are recommended or not advised.
Recovery After Revision Facelift
Recovery after revision facelift varies between individuals and may differ from the recovery you experienced after your first procedure.
– Early Recovery
- In the first few days it is common to have swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness
- You may stay in hospital overnight, depending on your health and the extent of surgery
- Dressings and possibly drains may be used in the early phase
– First Weeks
- Swelling and bruising usually peak in the first week then begin to improve
- By weeks two to three, many patients notice gradual reduction in visible bruising
- Some numbness, firmness and tightness can continue for several weeks
– Later Recovery
- Between weeks four and six, there is often steady improvement in comfort and appearance
- Light daily activities can usually be increased as advised by Dr Michael Kernohan
- Tissues continue to settle over several months and final changes may take time to be fully apparent
– Follow Up And Activity Guidance
You will receive instructions on:
- Caring for incisions and dressings
- Sleeping positions and activity restrictions
- When driving and work may be resumed
- Warning signs that should prompt early contact with the clinic, such as sudden increase in pain or swelling
Revision facelift is significant surgery. Planning adequate time for rest and follow up is an important part of the process.
Risks And Possible Complications Of Revision Facelift
All surgical procedures carry risks. Revision facelift involves additional complexity because of scarring and altered anatomy from previous surgery.
Possible general risks include:
- Bleeding and haematoma
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Reactions to anaesthetic medications
Risks more specific to facelift and revision surgery may include:
- Prolonged swelling or bruising
- Areas of numbness or altered sensation, which can be temporary or, less commonly, long lasting
- Temporary or, rarely, longer term weakness in parts of the face
- Scar concerns, such as widening or changes in colour
- Persistent asymmetry or contour irregularities despite careful planning
- Need for further procedures if complications occur
You are encouraged to review the Surgical Risks information on this website. Dr Michael Kernohan will provide a detailed discussion of risks and safety steps during your consultation and in written information.
Cost Of Revision Facelift
Costs for revision facelift in Sydney can vary. Factors that may influence the final amount include:
- The extent and complexity of surgery
- Whether your previous facelift was extensive or limited
- Time required in the operating theatre
- Hospital and theatre fees
- Anaesthetist fees
- Any additional procedures at the same time
- Dressings, garments and post operative care
A personalised quote is usually provided after full assessment in consultation. For general guidance, you can review the Fees and Costs page on this website or contact the team for information about the quoting process. Specific dollar amounts are not listed here, as each case is individual.
Medicare Coverage And Private Health Insurance
In selected cases where there is clear functional or reconstructive need, some facial procedures may be associated with a Medicare item number. Whether this applies in your case depends on:
- The clinical reason for surgery
- The degree of functional impact or deformity
- The strict criteria set by Medicare
Private health insurance may cover part of the hospital and theatre fees when a valid item number applies and depending on your level of cover.
During your consultation, Dr Michael Kernohan can advise whether an item number might be relevant for your situation. You should then confirm details directly with Medicare and your health fund, as the practice cannot provide financial advice.
Why Choose Dr Michael Kernohan
Dr Michael Kernohan – Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon is a FRACS (Plastic Surgery) qualified surgeon with training and experience in both reconstructive and aesthetic facial surgery.
Key points about his practice include:
- Qualifications: MBBS, FRCS (Plast), MRCS, FRACS (Plas)
- Senior Consultant at Liverpool Hospital, involved in multidisciplinary care
- Training and practice across the United Kingdom and Australia
- A focus on careful assessment, evidence based techniques and open communication
In his Gregory Hills and South West Sydney practice, Dr Kernohan:
- Works with anaesthetists, nurses and allied health professionals to support patient care
- Provides structured pre operative planning and post operative follow up
- Encourages patients to ask questions, seek further information and consider a second opinion if they wish
As he often tells patients, his aim is to give clear information about what is possible and what is not, so that surgery is considered carefully and in context.
FAQs About Revision Facelift
Book A Consultation With Dr Michael Kernohan
If you are considering a revision facelift in South West Sydney, a consultation can help you understand your options and whether surgery is suitable for your circumstances.
Dr Michael Kernohan – Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon welcomes patients from Gregory Hills, Campbelltown, Liverpool and the greater South West Sydney area. You can visit the Gregory Hills Health & Business Centre, suite 17, Level 2/13 Digitaria Dr, Gledswood Hills NSW 2557, call (02) 8310 9026 or email [email protected] to arrange a confidential consultation.
Further Reading
- Read more about Trifecta Lift
- Read more about Deep Plane Facelift NSW
- Read more about Partial Facelift Surgery NSW
