For individuals living in Camden, NSW, who are exploring surgical options to address visible signs of ageing in the lower face, a face lift is one of the procedures commonly discussed during consultations. This surgery focuses on repositioning deeper soft tissues and adjusting excess skin that has changed with time. The intention is to support the structural appearance of the jawline, cheeks and neck rather than creating a superficial smoothing effect. Many individuals begin considering this option when they notice gradual soft tissue descent, fullness along the jowls or changes beneath the chin that alter facial balance.
Dr Michael Kernohan, Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, consults from Gregory Hills in South West Sydney and Surry Hills near the Sydney CBD. While he does not operate in Campbelltown, many individuals from Camden and the broader Macarthur region find his Gregory Hills clinic practical for consultation and follow up appointments.
What a Face Lift May Offer: Structural Adjustments Over Time

A face lift may adjust the visible contour of the lower face and neck by repositioning tissues that have shifted with age. Some individuals may notice a more defined jawline or a smoother transition from the cheeks to the neck as healing progresses. Others observe a reduction in heaviness in the lower face or a decrease in folds that tend to develop with ageing. These observations vary significantly among individuals, and the degree of change differs based on factors such as skin quality, tissue tone, facial proportions and the natural healing process.
A face lift may address soft tissue descent, areas of heaviness along the jowls or accumulations of skin beneath the chin. Ageing often presents differently on each side of the face, and the surgery may also adjust asymmetry when one side has undergone more noticeable change. These outcomes are influenced by individual anatomy, daily habits and the rate at which each person heals. Camden residents who spend significant time outdoors or encounter varying weather conditions may find that lifestyle factors play a role in long term tissue quality.
For some individuals, a face lift is part of a broader structural approach and may be performed alongside eyelid adjustments, neck procedures or volume support. Dr Kernohan emphasises that results cannot be guaranteed. Although surgery can reposition existing tissues, ageing continues naturally throughout life.
Is a Face Lift Right for You? Candidacy Guided by Health and Anatomy
Suitability for surgery is assessed through an understanding of your health, facial structure and expectations. Individuals who are often considered for a face lift may have moderate to more advanced soft tissue descent or changes along the jawline and neck that benefit from surgical support. Skin elasticity also plays a role because repositioning is more predictable when the skin retains some flexibility.
During your consultation, Dr Kernohan reviews your medical history, including any previous surgeries and any conditions that may influence healing. Your facial structure, areas of concern and lifestyle are also important. Many Camden residents have outdoor or physically demanding routines, including animal care, gardening or farm related work, and these factors are considered when planning the timing of surgery and early recovery.
Individuals who follow pre operative instructions, organise home support and understand that ageing continues afterwards are often better prepared for surgery. Safety remains the highest priority. People with unmanaged medical conditions or lifestyle habits that may interfere with healing might require further preparation before being considered suitable candidates.
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Tailored Surgical Approaches: How Dr Kernohan Plans Each Face Lift
Each face lift is individually planned. Dr Kernohan draws on his specialist training and clinical experience to determine the most appropriate technique. The traditional face lift approach uses incisions around the ears and hairline and is often chosen when both mid face and lower face ageing are present.
In some cases, the deeper layer known as the SMAS is adjusted. This layer influences lower facial contour, and addressing it provides internal support that does not rely on skin tension. For individuals with more advanced ageing changes, a deep plane approach may be appropriate because it allows repositioning of deeper tissue layers beneath the SMAS.
For individuals with milder changes, a limited incision approach may be suitable. This uses shorter access points and still involves full surgical planning, anaesthesia and structured recovery. Although the incisions are shorter, the procedure remains a significant operation and requires the same level of care during healing.
A neck lift may be performed at the same time to address banding, fullness or laxity under the chin. The decision to combine procedures depends on anatomy, concerns and healing capacity. Dr Kernohan considers factors such as skin thickness, connective tissue tone, facial symmetry, bone structure and previous surgery. Lifestyle considerations, including travel from Camden and physical daily activities, are also incorporated into your plan so the recovery phase is manageable and supported.
Download Dr Kernohan’s Face and Neck Lift Surgery Guide

Inside the Operating Theatre: A Closer Look at the Face Lift Process
Face lift surgery is performed in an accredited hospital setting with a specialist anaesthetist and trained surgical team. Incisions are placed around the ears, within the hairline and occasionally under the chin if the neck requires adjustment. These locations are selected to provide access to deeper layers while allowing the incisions to blend naturally with surrounding contours.
The skin is gently lifted so that deeper supportive tissues can be repositioned. The SMAS layer and related structures are adjusted before excess skin is trimmed. The remaining skin is redraped without excessive tension to support healing. Fine sutures are placed in layers, and small drains may occasionally be used to help control early fluid accumulation.
The duration of surgery varies depending on complexity and whether other procedures are combined. After surgery, you will be monitored in recovery until you are medically stable and comfortable. Some individuals return home the same day, while others stay overnight depending on the surgical plan and individual needs.
What to Expect After Surgery: Recovery in Stages for Camden Patients
Recovery occurs gradually and is influenced by your general health, daily habits and support network. In the first few days, swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness are common. Keeping the head elevated helps reduce pressure on healing tissues. Bending, lifting and caring for animals should be avoided. Camden residents who manage horses, chickens or other animals will need organised support during this time.
By the end of the first week, you will return to the clinic for review. Dressings are assessed and any drains, if used, may be removed. Bruising is usually still visible and mild stiffness around the lower face and neck is common.
During the second and third weeks, swelling typically begins to settle and many individuals feel more comfortable returning to work or social environments, depending on their healing and their occupation. Gardening or outdoor tasks in Camden should be approached cautiously because bending forward or working in the sun can place stress on healing tissues.
Between the second and third month, the tissues gradually soften and the overall contour becomes more settled. Scar lines begin to blend more naturally into skin folds. Review appointments at Gregory Hills or Surry Hills support continued healing and allow for tailored guidance.
Healing continues for several months. The natural ageing process will still progress, and long term results are supported by healthy routines, sun protection and consistent after care.
Facelift Before and After Photos
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.
Supporting Long Term Results: Skin Health and Post Operative Care
Supporting skin health and general wellbeing is important for maintaining long term surgical results. Sun protection is especially relevant for Camden residents who spend time outdoors. Wearing hats, using sunscreen and avoiding direct sun on healing skin is recommended. Dr Kernohan may provide advice on a skincare plan to support skin health during recovery.
Avoiding smoking and managing any ongoing medical conditions also helps support treatment outcomes. Maintaining hydration, nutrition and sleep patterns contributes to healing. Regular follow up appointments are important to monitor progress and provide guidance at each stage of recovery.
Preparing for Surgery and the Months That Follow
Preparation involves both medical and practical steps. Before your procedure, you will need a GP referral so your medical history can be reviewed comprehensively. You may be asked to pause certain medications or supplements and to arrange support for daily activities. Camden residents may consider staying closer to the clinic for the first night or initial follow up appointments to reduce travel demands.
After surgery, you will receive clear instructions regarding wound care, movement limitations, sleeping positions and the gradual reintroduction of daily tasks. Activities such as gardening, animal care or lifting should be avoided until you receive clearance during your reviews. Each recovery plan is customised to support your lifestyle and responsibilities.
Understanding Face Lift Costs: Consultation Based Planning
Costs for face lift surgery are personalised because each individual requires a tailored approach. Factors such as complexity, duration of surgery, anaesthesia, hospital fees and combined procedures all influence the final cost. A detailed quote is provided after your consultation once your anatomy, health and surgical plan have been assessed. General pricing information is available on the website, but personalised costs are not provided without an assessment.

FAQs About Face Lift
Further Reading
- Read more about Trifecta Lift
- Read more about Deep Plane Facelift NSW
- Read more about Partial Facelift Surgery NSW
- Read more about Facial Nerve Surgery Sydney
Experience and Trust: Why Camden Patients See Dr Michael Kernohan
Individuals from Camden often choose to consult Dr Michael Kernohan because of his specialist training, years of clinical experience and established practice in reconstructive and aesthetic facial surgery. As a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with FRACS qualification, he performs surgery only in accredited hospital settings. All consultations and reviews are conducted by Dr Kernohan himself, and his planning focuses on anatomy, safety and individual needs.
Travelling to Gregory Hills or Surry Hills from Camden
The trip from Camden to Gregory Hills generally takes less than 30 minutes depending on traffic. The clinic offers on site parking and morning appointments that can be convenient for those travelling from surrounding areas. Travel to Surry Hills may take longer, especially during peak times. Some individuals choose to stay near the clinic after surgery to reduce travel in the early stages of recovery.
Taking the First Step: How to Arrange a Consultation with Dr Kernohan
If you are considering a face lift and are based in Camden or nearby areas, the first step is to obtain a GP referral. This supports a thorough review of your health history before planning any treatment.
You can arrange a consultation using the following details:
Phone: 1300 393 899
Email: [email protected]
Gregory Hills Clinic: Suite 17, Level 2, 13 Digitaria Drive, Gledswood Hills NSW 2557
Surry Hills Clinic: 423 Bourke Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Your first consultation includes an assessment of your concerns, a review of your medical background and an explanation of the surgical options appropriate for you. A second consultation is arranged before booking any procedure to confirm the plan and ensure all questions are addressed.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace personalised medical advice. It is not intended to encourage or entice patients to have surgery. Surgical suitability, outcomes and risks vary between individuals and will be discussed in detail during your consultation.

Call 1300 39 38 99
Or visit the contact page to send an enquiry: www.drmichaelkernohan.com.au/contact






