Understanding Revision Facelifts

Addressing unsatisfactory outcomes from previous facial surgery

While most facelifts when performed carefully, yield natural and long-lasting results, some patients may require a secondary procedure, commonly referred to as a revision facelift. This may be due to visible scarring, asymmetry, recurrence of laxity, or results that feel overly pulled, distorted, or simply not in line with a patient’s expectations.

Revision facelift surgery is more technically demanding than primary procedures and requires a considered, anatomical approach. At WaterhouseJanssen, revision facelifts are performed exclusively by our founding surgeon, Mr Norman Waterhouse, whose expertise in this field is internationally recognised.

Why Patients Consider Revision Surgery

There are a number of reasons a patient may seek a revision facelift:

Suboptimal technique in a previous procedure

Over-resection of skin, poor scar placement, or superficial lifting methods can create results that appear unnatural or short-lived.

Distortion of facial features
Common concerns include earlobe pulling, hollowing in the midface, or visible tension along incision lines.

Asymmetry or irregular healing
In some cases, scarring, swelling, or differential tissue response can result in unevenness or irregular contour.

Natural ageing
A previous facelift may have been appropriate at the time, but a patient may now experience recurrent laxity years later.

What Makes Revision Surgery Different

Revision facelifts often require:

• Careful dissection through previously operated tissue
• Correction of structural issues (not just surface-level lifting)
• A detailed understanding of scar behaviour and facial blood supply
• A tailored, case-by-case approach rather than a standardised technique

It is essential that revision procedures are performed by surgeons with significant experience in both primary and complex facial surgery.

Mr Norman Waterhouse

Mr Waterhouse is a consultant plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in facial surgery. He was formerly the Head of the Craniofacial Unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and has led international teaching programmes in facial aesthetic surgery.

His practice focuses on deep plane facelifting, revision procedures, and complex cases requiring structural restoration and aesthetic refinement. All surgeries by Mr Waterhouse are carried out at The London Clinic, a leading private hospital in Marylebone.

Is a Revision Facelift Right for You?

If you have previously undergone a facelift and are concerned about your results or are noticing changes over time, a consultation with Mr Waterhouse can help assess what is feasible and appropriate. Revision surgery is not about “undoing” a past procedure, but rather refining and restoring natural balance and support to the face.

Next Steps

To explore whether a revision facelift may be suitable, we recommend booking a consultation with Mr Waterhouse. 

To enquire, please contact us here