Which type of facelift is right for which face shape?

Which type of face lifting device is suitable for people with round, sunken, or square faces?

Whether male or female, facial shape is a crucial element that enhances personality and self-confidence. However, as we age, skin sagging, facial muscle weakness, or even localized fat accumulation can gradually alter facial features, leaving many feeling their face less defined and proportionate than before. This is why there is growing interest in facial lifting procedures, which help restore firmness and dimension to the face.

 

However, choosing an effective facelift method isn't just about selecting the newest technology or a popular program. It also requires considering each individual's original facial structure, as different face shapes respond differently to lifting techniques. For example, those with round faces may need treatments to reduce facial volume, those with sunken faces may need treatments to plump up the skin, and those with square faces may need treatments to soften the facial contours.

 

This article will introduce you to round, sunken, and square faces, their distinguishing characteristics, and the best facial lifting methods for optimal results. We'll provide comprehensive advice covering technology, medical procedures, and post-treatment care, allowing you to confidently choose the approach that best suits your face shape and needs.

 

 

Understanding facial structure before undergoing a facelift.

Before choosing the right facial lifting method, the first thing to understand is each person's basic facial structure. Different face shapes have different strengths, weaknesses, and common problems, all of which directly impact the choice of facial care methods and lifting techniques.

 

In general, facial structures can be classified into several types in terms of aesthetics. However, this article will focus on three main face shapes that often cause problems: round faces, sunken faces, and square faces. Each face shape has its own specific characteristics, as follows:

• Round face

People with round faces typically have a facial structure without sharp angles or defined jawlines. The facial contours are curved, resembling a circle or oval, and the forehead, jaw, and chin are generally in a nearly horizontal plane. Another characteristic of this face type is relatively full cheeks. When gaining even a little weight, a double chin or fat accumulation under the chin tends to be more noticeable than with other face shapes.

Common problems in people with round faces include a lack of facial dimension, large or wide cheeks, and an undefined jawline, making many feel their face appears too round and short. Furthermore, as people age, the skin in the cheek and chin areas tends to sag faster than with other face shapes.

• Hollow Face

People with thin faces often have a long, slender face shape with prominent cheekbones, but the area beneath the cheekbones tends to appear sunken or flat. The deep hollows in the cheeks make the face look gaunt and can sometimes make the person appear tired or older than they actually are, even if the facial contours are relatively well-defined.

A common problem is the depth of facial furrows, such as under-eye lines, nasolabial folds, or sunken temples, making the face appear less full and plump. As we age, the deeper layers of the skin thin, making them more prone to wrinkles and sagging, even without significant fat accumulation.

• Square face

A square or rectangular face is another common face shape, especially in people with strong bone structure. The defining features of this face type are a wide and well-defined jawline, prominent cheekbones, and a forehead and jawline of similar size, making the face appear more straight than the curves of an oval face.

A common problem for people with square faces is that their face appears harsh or stern, lacking softness. Furthermore, as they age, the lower part of the face, such as the jawline or lower cheeks, tends to sag and accumulate fat easily, making the facial contours appear uneven. Some people may also feel that their face sags or droops around the jaw corners.

 

 

Analyzing facial lifting technologies for different face shapes.

• For round faces.

A round face is characterized by full cheeks, an undefined jawline, and often a double chin. Therefore, a suitable approach is to use technologies that both reduce localized fat and tighten the face simultaneously, creating a more defined and slender appearance. Popular options include: Ultherapy PrimeUltraformer MPT, OligoThermage FLX and Super HIFU can help to reshape and contour the face.

• For a hollow face shape.

People with prominent cheekbones, thin skin, and a gaunt appearance often look tired or older than they actually are. Therefore, it's important to choose technologies that lift the skin without significantly reducing fat, preserving volume in key facial areas. Suitable technologies include Ultraformer 4D Lift and Fix Lift. IN FACE This treatment focuses on stimulating muscle and collagen production, helping to improve skin firmness and plumpness without making the face appear thinner.

• For square face shapes.

Square faces often have prominent jawlines and strong facial angles. Facelifts in this case should focus on technologies that can soften the facial contours and reduce the harshness of the jawline, especially in the lower face. Suitable options include Thermage FLX, Super HIFU, Fix Lift, and others. IN FACE It has the ability to tighten muscles and deep skin layers, helping to enhance facial contours.

 

Planning a personalized facial lifting procedure.

Although the choice of a facelift method is primarily based on face shape, such as round, sunken, or square, there are actually other factors that should be considered to achieve effective, noticeable, and appropriate results for each individual's skin condition. These factors in planning a facelift include:

• Facial structure and skin quality.

The initial assessment begins with an analysis of facial features such as cheekbone size, jawline definition, chin shape, and overall facial proportions to determine which areas should be lifted, reduced, or enhanced with volume. 

• Expected needs and level of change.

Another important aspect is discussing with the client what kind of results they want. Some may desire a noticeable, immediate facelift, while others may simply want to rejuvenate their skin and give it a brighter appearance without attracting much attention from others. 

• Selecting technology or techniques that are appropriate for the problem.

Currently, there are many options for facial lifting, ranging from ultrasound and radiofrequency to needle procedures. Choosing the appropriate method depends on the depth of the problem and the individual's skin condition. For example, very thin skin may not be suitable for techniques that reduce fat excessively, or if deep facial structure lifting is required, a device that directly targets the SMAS layer may be needed.

• Health and age conditions.

An individual's health directly affects the choice of facial lifting method. For example, people with certain medical conditions or allergies may not be suitable for certain procedures. Furthermore, age plays a significant role in determining the level of treatment needed. Individuals aged 30-40, who are beginning to experience fine lines and early sagging, may be able to use less invasive technologies. Conversely, those aged 50 and older, who have more significant skin sagging, deep wrinkles, or loss of skin volume, may require a more comprehensive treatment plan and a combination of techniques.

• Ongoing care and follow-up after treatment.

After a facelift, continued care is crucial. Proper skincare helps prolong the results. Furthermore, regular follow-up appointments with your doctor or clinic allow you to assess changes, adjust future care plans, and promptly identify any potential risks or complications that may arise after treatment.

 

 

What are the benefits of a facial lifting device?

• Helps to firm and tighten sagging skin.
• Reduce sagging in the cheeks, under the chin, and along the jawline.
• Enhance your facial contours without surgery.
• Reduce a double chin that makes your face look fat.
• Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin beneath the skin.
• Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Makes the skin look smoother, more refined, and more elastic.
• Makes skin look plumper, brighter, and healthier.
• Reduce localized fat accumulation. 
• Solve the problem of sagging skin caused by age or weight loss.
• Make your face look younger without surgery.
• Helps to lift the corners of the eyes and forehead, giving a tighter appearance.
• Balance the proportions of your face. 

 

The advantages of using a facial lifting device.

• Helps to lift sagging skin, restoring firmness and a more youthful appearance.
• Reduce wrinkles, deep lines, and signs of aging on the face.
• Lift and reshape the face for better proportions. 
• Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in the skin layers.
• The skin looks smoother and the pores are noticeably tighter.
• The face looks brighter and healthier.
• Reduce cheek fat; solve the problem of sagging cheeks or excess fat.
• Reduce a double chin to make your chin appear more defined and your neck look longer and slimmer.
• Restore skin elasticity without surgery.
• No long recovery time is needed; you can return to your daily life quickly.
• It gives results that are not stiff and don't suddenly change the shape of the face.
• Boost your confidence in daily life and social interactions.
• There are various techniques to choose from, depending on your budget and face shape.
• It can be combined with other procedures.
• Make your face look years younger without any pain.
• It helps to create an overall gentler and more refined appearance.
• Suitable for both women and men of all ages.
• You can treat specific areas; it's not necessary to treat the entire face.
• Reduces excess oil and helps control skin balance.

 

 

Who is suitable for facial lifting treatments?

• Those who begin to experience skin sagging from the age of 25 onwards.
• Those who feel their face has lost its firmness and elasticity.
• People with sagging cheeks or an undefined jawline.
• People with a double chin.
• People who lose weight often have wrinkled facial skin.
• Those with fine lines around the eyes, forehead, or nasolabial folds.
• For those who want to revitalize their skin and make it look brighter.
• Those who want to reshape their face to appear slimmer or more proportionate.
• For those who want to slow down the aging process without surgery.
• For those with limited time and who find it inconvenient to have a long recovery period.
• People who have to go out on stage, in front of the camera, or for photos.
• Those who wish to continuously take care of themselves preventively.
• Seniors who want to restore skin elasticity but do not want surgery.
• For those who want to lift specific areas of the skin, such as the corners of the eyes, corners of the mouth, chin, or jawline.

 

Note:

Choosing the appropriate method should be evaluated by a doctor, as factors such as age, skin condition, facial structure, and health limitations all affect the effectiveness of the treatment. Therefore, to achieve the desired results and minimize potential risks, seeking advice from a reputable clinic is crucial.

 

Who might not be suitable for a facelift?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with chronic skin conditions on the face, such as eczema, steroid-induced skin disease, or psoriasis.
• Those with open wounds, fresh sores, or severe acne in the area requiring facial lifting.
• People with a history of easily forming keloid scars. 
• Individuals with uncontrolled underlying medical conditions, such as severe heart disease or uncontrolled diabetes.
• People with pacemakers or other electronic devices implanted in their bodies.
• People who take anticoagulant medications, such as aspirin.
• People with abnormally thin skin or significant loss of subcutaneous fat.
• People who have unrealistic expectations or misunderstandings about the results of a facelift.
• Those who have undergone aggressive facelift surgery and have a significant amount of scar tissue in the skin layers.
• People with skin infections, such as herpes simplex virus around the mouth, or fungal or bacterial infections on the face.
• Those experiencing chronic fatigue, weakened immunity, or recently recovered from illness.
• People who have a severe fear of pain or cannot tolerate contact with energy at all.
• Those who want to see immediate results in a single application, without understanding the nature of the technology.
• People with depression or mental health issues that may affect their acceptance of their own appearance.
• For those with dry, severely dehydrated skin who have not yet undergone initial skin restoration.

 

Note:

Not everyone is suitable for this type of procedure. Therefore, before deciding to undergo the procedure, a thorough evaluation by a doctor is necessary to analyze skin structure, individual problems, and health limitations for optimal long-term results.

 

 

Post-face lift procedure care instructions.

• Avoid exposure to strong sunlight.
• Avoid strenuous exercise during the first 2–3 days.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking during the first week.
• Avoid touching your face forcefully, such as rubbing or wiping your face vigorously.
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach or side that exposes your face directly.
• Avoid outdoor activities such as playing sports or swimming during the first 3–5 days.
• Avoid facial massages, exfoliating, or harsh treatments for 1–2 weeks.
• Avoid steam rooms, saunas, or activities that expose your facial skin to high heat.
• Avoid using skincare or makeup products that contain fragrance or irritating ingredients.
• Avoid washing your face with very hot water or rubbing ice on your face for the first 48 hours.
• Sunscreen with SPF 50 PA++++ should be applied regularly.
• You should drink enough water, 8–10 glasses a day, to keep your skin hydrated.
• You should get enough sleep, 6-8 hours a day, to allow your skin to recover properly.
• You should use skincare products that are moisturizing and gentle.

 

Frequently asked questions about choosing the right facelift device for your face shape.

How many facelift sessions are needed to see results? How often should I get it done?

• Generally, facial lifting treatments using various technologies show results from the first session. In particular, technologies like Ultherapy Prime, Thermage FLX, or Oligio show gradually improving results within 1-3 months and last for 12-24 months. For technologies that require a course of treatment, such as EMFACE or Fix Lift, it's typically recommended to have 3-6 sessions initially, followed by annual treatments to maintain the results. Planning with a doctor will help determine the appropriate frequency and number of sessions based on each individual's skin concerns and budget.

Why can't face lift results be the same for the same face shape?

• Even with similar facial structures—round, sunken, or square—the results of facelift procedures vary from person to person. This is because a variety of underlying factors, including skin thickness, subcutaneous fat amount, muscle condition, age, existing collagen in the skin layers, and even lifestyle habits, all influence recovery and response to facelift treatments. Furthermore, the chosen technique and the doctor's accuracy in assessing the skin condition are crucial factors contributing to individual differences in results.

Targeted facial lifting vs. full-face lifting: Which is right for you?

• The choice between localized or full-face lifting should depend on individual skin concerns and needs. If you only have problems in specific areas, such as a slight double chin, drooping eyelids, or slightly sagging lower cheeks, localized lifting may suffice and provide optimal results without needing a full-face treatment. Conversely, if you have sagging in multiple areas, an undefined jawline, sagging cheeks, and the onset of wrinkles, a full-face lift will yield more noticeable and harmonious results because it addresses the entire face holistically.

Facial lifting isn't just about aesthetics; it's about understanding the unique structure of each face to select the most precise technique. Whether it's a round face needing to reduce cheeks and double chin, a sunken face needing to firm the skin, or a square face wanting to lift and soften the jawline, every face shape has its own ideal approach.

Therefore, planning in collaboration with your doctor, and evaluating other factors such as age, degree of sagging, skin thickness, or recovery time, will help achieve results that are both noticeable and harmonious with your desired facial features.

If you're looking for the right facelift method for your face, consider consulting a doctor who understands the various dimensions of facial structure to ensure this transformation is aesthetically pleasing and boosts your confidence in the long term.