The passage of time, gravity, environmental factors, stress, and the harmful effects of the sun are among the many factors that cause our skin to lose its elasticity over the years. As the production of collagen and elastin fibers— the building blocks of the skin, slows down, sagging, fine wrinkles, and volume loss appear on the face, neck, and décolleté. In the past, major surgical procedures were seen as the only solution to these problems. However, with advances in technology, they have been replaced by much more comfortable, innovative medical aesthetic procedures with shorter recovery times. Among these innovative methods, laser lifting stands out.
Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Dr. Gözde Erten closely follows the latest technologies to help her patients achieve a natural and youthful appearance. If you want to rejuvenate without undergoing surgery or experiencing a long recovery period, you can benefit from the power of laser technology. In this guide, you will find all the details, advantages, and processes of this procedure, also known as laser lifting treatment or laser facelift.
What is laser lifting?
Laser lifting, as the name suggests, is a procedure that uses specific laser wavelengths to stimulate collagen tissue in the lower layers of the skin (dermis and fascia), repair damaged tissue, and create controlled tightening (lifting) of the skin. Unlike traditional facelift surgeries, this procedure is performed without making any incisions in the skin or using only micro-entries as small as a needle tip. It is highly sought after as a "non-surgical facelift."
While traditional facelift surgery involves cutting and removing sagging skin to tighten the face, laser technology aims to trigger the skin's self-repair mechanism (neocollagenesis). When laser beams are delivered to the deeper layers of the skin, they create controlled thermal damage. The body perceives this heat as a signal and begins to pump new, fresh collagen and elastin fibres into that area. Consequently, the skin undergoes internal tightening, thickening, and firming.
How does laser lifting treatment work?
Laser lifting treatment is one of the greatest gifts technology has given to cosmetic surgery. The basic mechanism of the procedure is based on transferring specific energy to the targeted tissue at a specific depth. Today, different laser systems (fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, Nd:YAG lasers, or fibre optic networks, such as endolift lasers applied under the skin), can be used for this purpose.
Superficial and deep tissue effect
The laser beam penetrates directly into the dermis layer while preserving (or micro-exfoliating) the epidermis, the uppermost layer of the skin. The thermal (heat) effect created by the laser causes immediate contraction and tightening of the tissues. This is the “initial tightening” effect that the patient sees in the mirror immediately after the procedure. However, the real miracle occurs in the weeks and months following the procedure.
Long-term collagen synthesis
Laser energy stimulates fibroblast cells, which can be described as the skin's “fountain of youth.". Your skin continues to produce new collagen for the next 3 to 6 months. As a result, patients who undergo laser lifting treatment enjoy skin that becomes increasingly youthful, radiant, and firm over the months. Additionally, stubborn fat deposits in areas like the jawline and chin are broken down by the laser's lipolysis (fat-melting) effect, enhancing the definition of the facial contour.
How is laser lifting performed?
Although many of our patients know that the procedure is non-surgical, they wonder exactly how it works and how they will feel during it. Laser lifting is a non-surgical procedure that requires medical precision. Here are the step-by-step application stages:
- Detailed consultation and planning: First and foremost, the patient's skin structure, degree of sagging, and loss of elasticity are analysed. The areas to be treated (cheeks, chin, neck, etc.) are clearly defined. This stage is fundamental to achieving the best personal results.
- Skin cleansing and preparation: The area to be treated is completely cleansed of makeup, oil, and dirt. Hygiene is maintained at the highest level for the safety of the procedure.
- Local anesthesia application: To increase the comfort of the procedure, a strong local anesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area and left for approximately 20-30 minutes. This ensures that the patient feels no pain.
- Application of laser energy: Laser energy is delivered to the targeted tissue depth through the device's special head. At this stage, the laser beams heat the collagen fibres in the skin's lower layers. Thanks to the cooling systems in our modern devices, the upper surface of the skin (epidermis) is protected, while controlled thermal damage is created in the lower tissues (dermis). Patients usually describe only a slight warmth or tingling sensation during this time.
- Skin soothing and protection: After the procedure is complete, special mesotherapy serums or soothing creams are applied to calm the skin. In the final step, a high-factor sunscreen is applied to protect the skin from external factors, concluding the procedure.
Procedure duration: Laser lifting typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treated area. Immediately after the procedure, our patient can walk out of our clinic and resume their daily life.
What areas can laser lifting treatment be applied to?
One of the most frequently asked questions from our patients is whether this procedure is only applied to the face. Thanks to its flexibility and reliability, laser lifting can be successfully applied to many areas of the body where sagging occurs:
- Lower and middle face: tightening sagging cheeks, reducing nasolabial folds (the lines running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth).
- Jawline and chin: reshaping the jawline that has become undefined with age or weight gain/loss, melting fat in the chin area and tightening the skin.
- Eye area: Reducing under-eye bags, crow's feet, and drooping eyebrows.
- Neck and décolletage: Smoothing horizontal lines and wrinkles in the neck area, eliminating skin laxity.
- Body: Specific body areas experiencing loss of elasticity, such as the abdomen, inner arms, and above the knees.
Laser lifting treatment is available in Ankara, Turkey, with Op. Dr. Gözde Erten
The facial region possesses an extremely complex network of nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. Therefore, it is critically important for the success of the procedure and patient safety that medical aesthetic and laser treatments are performed by Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery specialists who are fully proficient in facial anatomy, or under their supervision.
For our patients in Ankara seeking laser lifting treatment, we prepare a personalised treatment protocol at our clinic tailored to each individual's skin type, degree of ageing, and expectations. The most important difference of Op. Dr Gözde Erten is that she does not transform her patients into someone else but rather helps them achieve the youngest, freshest, and most dynamic version of their faces. At our center in Ankara, Turkey, these procedures, performed using the latest technology (laser devices), are offered in a completely hygienic and safe clinical environment in a comfortable manner. Detailed skin analyses are performed on our patients before the procedure, and the depth and energy levels at which the laser treatment will be applied are calculated down to the millimetre.
Healthy, young, and dynamic skin is not a dream. Contact us now to defy the years with the power of laser technology in the hands of an expert plastic surgeon and schedule your appointment.
Comparison of laser lifting and traditional facelift surgery
Before deciding which method is more suitable for you, it is quite useful to know the basic differences between the two procedures. Below you will find a comparison of laser-assisted lifting and surgical facelift methods.
| Criteria | Laser Lifting | Traditional Facelift |
| Type of anesthesia | Usually local anesthesia or anesthetic cream. | General anesthesia |
| Recovery | 1-3 days | 2-3 weeks |
| Incision and scar | No incisions, no scars. (Only micro-punctures). | Hidden incision marks in front of/behind the ear and on the scalp. |
| Duration of effect | Lasts 1.5 to 2 years | Lasts 7-10 years |
| Process duration | 45 minutes - 1 hour | 3 to 5 hours |
| Candidates | Mild to moderate sagging, Those don't want surgery. | Advanced sagging and deep skin deformities. |
Laser lifting treatment prices in Turkey, Ankara
There are numerous factors that determine pricing for medical aesthetic and plastic surgery procedures. Laser lifting treatment prices in Ankara vary depending on the expertise of the physician performing the procedure, the clinic's equipment, the brand and model of the laser device used, the size of the areas to be treated, and the number of sessions required by the patient.
For example, the cost of a laser lifting procedure applied only to the eye area will naturally differ from the pricing of a combined laser treatment covering the entire face, chin, and neck area. Additionally, whether the laser treatment is supported by PRP, mesotherapy, hyaluronic acid fillers, or fat injections, depending on the patient's skin condition, also affects the total price.
Note: In accordance with our clinic's current procedures and health ministry regulations, it is inappropriate to share exact pricing information online. However, you can contact us directly to receive information about your personalised treatment plan and current costs and to take advantage of our treatment packages.
Recovery process and What to do after laser lifting?
One of the most appealing aspects of laser lifting treatment is that it does not disrupt patients' daily social and work lives. However, as with any medical procedure, it is essential for the patient to follow certain rules during the postoperative period to ensure a successful outcome and minimise the risk of complications.
The first few days
Immediately after the procedure, the skin may appear slightly pink or red or have minor swelling. This is a result of the “positive” and “expected” thermal effect created by the laser under the tissue. These symptoms usually disappear on their own within 24 to 48 hours. During this process, it is recommended to avoid rubbing the face, washing with hot water, and strenuous exercise.
Sun protection
Laser treatments can make the skin more sensitive to external factors for a temporary period. Therefore, it is very important to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for the first few weeks after the procedure. Regular use of broad-spectrum (at least SPF 50) sunscreen will prevent the formation of spots (hyperpigmentation) on the skin.
Skincare
After treatment, in addition to the soothing and moisturising creams recommended by your doctor, you should avoid acidic peeling products, scrubs, or harsh cleansers that may irritate the skin for a while. Drinking plenty of water is one of the most natural ways to support collagen synthesis from within.
Who is a good candidate for laser lifting?
Laser lifting is an excellent option for all our patients, both women and men, who notice a decrease in skin elasticity from their mid-30s onwards, begin to develop a “tired” and “sagging” appearance on their face, but are not yet ready for surgical facelift surgery or are afraid of going under the knife.
However, pregnant women, those with active skin infections (cold sores, severe acne, etc.) in the treatment area, and individuals with serious autoimmune diseases must undergo a detailed medical consultation before laser treatments. Op. Dr Gözde Erten will transparently assess whether you are suitable for this treatment during the pre-procedure examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Laser lifting procedures are performed while maintaining maximum patient comfort. For superficial applications, local anaesthetic creams applied 30-45 minutes before the procedure are usually sufficient; for deeper (subcutaneous) applications, tiny local anaesthetic injections can be administered using very fine needles. This ensures that the patient feels no pain or discomfort during the procedure, only a slight warming or tingling sensation.
The number of sessions is determined by the specialist physician based on the patient's age, skin quality, and degree of elasticity loss. There are powerful single-session protocols targeting deep tissue, as well as fractional or superficial laser protocols planned in 2 or 3 sessions at 3-4 week intervals, depending on the skin's needs. After the examination, the most suitable session plan for you will be determined.
The effects of laser lifting are not a permanent “freezing” process, as the ageing process continues naturally. However, the procedure effectively resets the skin's biological clock. The rejuvenation and tightening effect achieved through the production of new collagen typically lasts for 1.5 to 2 years, depending on the patient's lifestyle (smoking, diet, sun protection). To extend the duration of the effect, it is recommended to have maintenance (booster) sessions once a year.
The biggest advantage of laser lifting is that the “return to social life” period is almost immediate. Most of our patients can comfortably return to work the day after the procedure, and even if there is slight redness, it can be covered with simple mineral makeup.
Absolutely not. Since no extra volume or muscle-freezing substances are injected externally, such as fillers or Botox, there will be no change, stiffness, or swelling in your facial expressions or features. Laser lifting works entirely by stimulating your own cells to produce collagen, providing a completely “natural” and highly organic rejuvenation. People will notice a positive glow and a rested appearance on your face, but they won't realise you've had any aesthetic procedures done.