Deep plane Facelift - I did proceed with surgery which went well

My concern was primarily my poor facial profile (neck and jawline), an issue I always had but it was becoming more prominent with age and gaining weight in recent years. Due to work commitments and time constraints, I was after a non-invasive solution, but as I researched, it was clear that none of those procedures was going to make any difference at all. If I had “tried” them over the years, the accumulated costs would have been comparable to cost of surgery but without the results. Clearly, in my case, the only option was surgery and it was a matter of finding the right time and the right surgeon. My challenge was finding a surgeon who operates exclusively of the face and neck but without the enormous price tag. It does not resonate with me to go with a surgeon who performs an array of plastic and cosmetic procedures on the face as well as body. My understanding of (most) their work is a one size fits all approach, with not so impressive results.

As I did my research, I came across Prof. Ozcan Cakmak’s name as an international board certified facial plastic surgeon who only focuses on facial rejuvenation - a true specialist!. I read some of his peer reviewed papers, loved how he explained the importance of the surgeon’s understanding of the facial soft tissue anatomy, the relationship of the various ligaments and their adequate release (being the main aspect of “deep plane” as I understand it), and the facial anatomical changes associated with ageing. This was exactly what I was looking for, so I contacted his team at Face Istanbul who promptly arranged a Zoom meeting with him. After meeting Prof Cakmak virtually, I completely trusted his anatomical knowledge, his surgical skill, and his aesthetic assessment. It was evident that Prof Cakmak was at the top of his game who delivers a personalised approach to his patients.

That one Zoom meeting was enough for me to book a surgery date and fly to Istanbul with my partner. It was a pleasure meeting the doctor and his lovely team in person. Prof Cakmak exhibits a friendly, humble, thorough, and well-rounded persona. There was no pressure to proceed with surgery, and he was happy to answer as many questions as I wanted. I did proceed with surgery which went well. The hospital facilities were world class and the nurses were absolutely lovely during my overnight stay. Prof Cakmak was the last person I saw before surgery, and first person after. He removed the drains the following morning and regularly checked-in in his very busy schedule. I have to say, I didn’t look as bad as I thought I would, and it was very uncomfortable sleeping elevated on my back especially with the drains. This is expected. My hotel was very close to the doctor’s clinic, where we stayed two weeks post surgery. After that, we went away on holiday for two more weeks before our long haul flight home and starting work (from home) in fifth week. I still have quite a bit of tightness and there is some swelling / lumpiness on my neck which I expect will take another month or so to settle further.

I had a very supportive partner with me the whole time. If you don’t or you prefer to do this on your own, I believe the team at Face Istanbul can cater for that too. They arrange transfers from/to airport/hotel/hospital but they can help with other arrangements as well if you need.

Make no mistake, deep plane face/neck lift is an invasive surgery, therefore you should do your research and allow time to heal. If you have some understanding of the procedure then you are able to make an informed decision, your expectations will be reasonable and you will cope better generally. It is a journey that needs to be considered and planned fully.

Finally, two things that really stood out for me was that Prof Cakmak is an excellent listener (which explains him being the moderator at a number of facial rejuvenation discussions / seminars), and his high level of care factor. My partner had a health issue and Prof Cakmak went above and beyond to help there as well. He was fully booked and very busy, but managed to assist us after hours! Of course one admires and respects his professionalism and all his work and important contribution to the field, but the way he tried to help us with a non-related matter, one cannot help but trust and simply put, like him as well!

Therefore, from my experience, Prof Ozcan Cakmak and his team at Face Istanbul come highly recommended to anyone seeking a facial rejuvenation solution with excellent results.