Endoscopic Facelift London
Endoscopic Facelift (Scarless Facelift)
An endoscopic facelift is a minimally invasive facelift technique that uses a small camera to reposition the deeper facial tissues through discreet access incisions, typically hidden in the hairline. Patients sometimes refer to this as a scarless facelift or ponytail facelift. While no surgery is truly scarless, the approach is designed to minimise visible scarring and restore facial contour in a natural, balanced way.
The correct approach to facial rejuvenation is always anatomy-led. Mr Yapa offers endoscopic options for selected patients, open deep plane surgery where appropriate, and a hybrid approach when combining the strengths of both delivers the best outcome.
Endoscopic Facelift London
The Procedure: At a Glance
Procedure Length:
Typically 1.5-3 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery
Cost:
Prices starting from £22,000
Hospital Stay:
Typically a day case or overnight, depending on the extent of the plan and any combination procedures
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthesia. Sedation and local anaesthetic can also be considered
Downtime:
Around 10-14 days to feel socially presentable. For an open deep plane face and neck lift, planning for around 3 weeks is advised
Scaring:
Endoscopic access incisions are typically concealed within the hairline; open deep plane approaches use carefully positioned scars around the ear and hairline, designed to heal discreetly
Showering:
Wait 48 hours post-surgery before showering. Baths should be avoided until sutures are removed and wounds are fully healed
Sleeping:
Sleep on your back with your face elevated during the initial recovery period
Smoking:
Refrain from smoking at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after the procedure
Direct Sun Exposure:
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 6 weeks post-surgery and apply a high SPF to scars
Benefits of an Endoscopic facelift
An endoscopic facelift works well for the right patient, and Mr Yapa will always be honest about when it is and isn’t the best choice.
Restore a Fresher, More Rested Appearance
By repositioning the underlying facial tissues rather than simply tightening the skin surface, an endoscopic facelift can address a tired or drawn appearance in a way that looks natural and balanced.
Minimal Access Incisions
The procedure is performed through small incisions hidden in the hairline, rather than the longer incisions used in a traditional facelift. For patients who don’t require significant skin excision, this can result in less visible scarring.
Structural Repositioning
The endoscopic facelift uses a camera to work under direct visualisation, allowing Mr Yapa to identify and lift the deeper facial tissues with precision. The direction and degree of lift is carefully considered for each patient, with the aim of restoring contour and support rather than simply tightening the surface.
Natural-Looking Results
Because the technique addresses the underlying architecture of the face, results tend to appear balanced and proportionate. Changes look like a refreshed, youthful version of your own features, not an obvious surgical outcome.
Reduced Recovery Period
For patients having an endoscopic midface lift without open skin excision, the recovery is often shorter and the bruising and swelling more contained than with more extensive procedures.
A Considered Alternative to Open Surgery
The endoscopic approach is well-suited to patients with early midface descent who do not yet require the more comprehensive correction of open surgery. For those with more advanced lower-face and neck concerns, Mr Yapa will recommend a Deep Plane Facelift, a Deep Plane Neck Lift, or both.
Endoscopic Facelift Procedure
Every endoscopic facelift is planned around the individual. The broad sequence of the procedure remains consistent, but the precise approach reflects your anatomy, the extent of your concerns, your goals, and the outcome you are looking to achieve.
Anaesthesia
Before surgery begins, an anaesthetist administers the appropriate combination of medications to keep you comfortable and safe throughout. Mr Yapa works with experienced anaesthetists at both Harley Street and The Lindo Wing of St Mary’s Hospital.
Access Incisions
Mr Yapa makes a small number of carefully planned incisions, positioned within the hairline to minimise visibility. Because no skin needs to be removed, the incisions are much shorter than those used in open facelift surgery and do not extend around the ear.
Endoscopic Visualisation
A slim, camera-equipped instrument (the endoscope) is introduced through the access points. This allows Mr Yapa to view the deeper layers of the face in detail on a monitor, working with precision beneath the surface of the skin.
Tissue Elevation & Repositioning
Using specialised instruments alongside the endoscope, Mr Yapa works to lift the deeper facial structures and reposition them. The direction and degree of lift are carefully planned to restore contour and support rather than simply create tightness.
Fixation & Closure
The repositioned tissues are secured using internal fixation techniques. The access incisions are then carefully closed to preserve the hairline and allow scars to settle as discreetly as possible.
Risks & Complications of Endoscopic Facelift Surgery
Mr Yapa discusses the risks of this technique honestly and in full during your consultation. All patients should feel well-informed before making any decision to proceed.
Swelling & Bruising
Some degree of swelling and bruising is expected after any facelift surgery and can be managed with prescribed medication. Excessive or prolonged swelling may need further attention from Mr Yapa or his team.
Scarring
Access incisions are positioned within the hairline to minimise visible scarring. How scars settle depends on individual skin type and adherence to post-operative care guidance.
Haematoma
A haematoma is a localised collection of blood beneath the skin that can occur in the days following surgery. Smaller haematomas often resolve without intervention, but larger ones may need to be addressed by Mr Yapa to support recovery.
Temporary Numbness or Facial Weakness
Injury to the facial nerve is rare, but it is something all patients should understand before proceeding. Where it does occur, altered sensation or movement is most often temporary, improving as the surrounding tissues settle.
Infection
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the wound site. Following pre- and post-operative guidance carefully, including refraining from smoking, reduces this likelihood.
Asymmetry
In rare cases, healing may progress differently on each side, creating a slightly uneven appearance. This is usually mild and can often be addressed during follow-up care if it doesn’t resolve on its own.
Incomplete Correction
In some patients, an endoscopic approach may not fully address the extent of the concerns present. Mr Yapa will discuss this possibility honestly before surgery is agreed.
Negative Anaesthesia Response
A small number of patients may experience an adverse reaction to anaesthesia. All patients undergo a comprehensive pre-operative assessment to identify any relevant factors in advance.
Recovery from an Endoscopic Facelift
Recovery following an endoscopic facelift varies depending on the extent of surgery and any additional procedures performed. Mr Yapa will provide a personalised recovery plan tailored to your procedure and will review your progress at each stage.
0 – 48 Hours
You’ll be advised to rest with your head elevated following surgery. Swelling and bruising are a normal part of healing. An overnight stay may be recommended depending on the scope of the procedure.
1 – 2 Weeks
Swelling and bruising improve significantly over the first 10 to 14 days. A compression garment may be worn during this period to manage swelling and support the tissues. Light activity is generally well tolerated by the end of week two.
3 – 4 Weeks
Swelling will have reduced considerably by this stage. Mild intermittent numbness can occur and typically resolves on its own over the following weeks. If open deep plane surgery has been carried out, most patients feel comfortable returning to public-facing activities around the three-week mark.
6 – 12 Weeks
Most patients reach the end of their recovery period between weeks six and twelve. Mr Yapa will assess your progress and advise when you can return to full activity. Results will continue to refine over the months that follow as the deeper tissues fully stabilise.
Book your consultation
If you would like to discuss this procedure in detail and understand if it’s the right procedure for your goals, book a consultation with Mr Kshem Yapa.
“I feel fantastic, look fantastic and natural. I can’t praise Mr Yapa enough. From the moment I met him I felt I am in good hands. I had many questions and he was always happy to provide answers and advice. He is very knowledgeable, professional and caring for his patients.”
Facelift patient
“Fantastic experience that I couldn’t fault what so ever! From the consultation to the operation to the anaesthetist and to the after-care has been nothing but exceptional, Dr Yapa an amazing Surgeon who achieves exactly what you ask for. I would have no hesitation what so ever recommending him to anyone.”
Browlift and upper blepharoplasty patient
“Mr Yapa understood what I wanted and went above and beyond to make it happen. During our consultation, I wanted a slight change in my nose, not to be a swoop just straight and he did just that. He understood what I wanted and just went above and beyond for it. This beyond what I expected. He is an amazing, empathetic surgeon.”
Rhinoplasty patient
“Mr Yapa completely changed my life – I can finally wear my hair up!
I would highly recommend considering this surgical procedure with Mr Yapa because my ears were completely different due to the shape of my ears and one stuck out more. I am unbelievably amazed by the outcome of the surgery and how my ears now look. “
Prominent Ear Correction patient
As seen on
Endoscopic Facelift London FAQs
What is the cost of an endoscopic facelift in London?
Endoscopic facelift surgery at Yapa Plastic Surgery starts from £22,000, covering the anaesthetic, surgical expenses, and post-operative care. The final figure will depend on the complexity of your procedure and any combination treatments included. A full breakdown will be outlined during your consultation.
Am I a good candidate for an endoscopic facelift?
An endoscopic facelift is often the right choice for patients who are on the younger side of the facelift spectrum, have good skin quality and elasticity, require more modest structural changes, and whose concerns are driven by descent and loss of support rather than excess skin.
It’s less suited to patients with pronounced laxity around the lower face, corners of the mouth, or neck, where open surgery typically produces a more complete result. Patients with milder concerns may find a Mini Facelift a better option. Determining if an endoscopic facelift is right for you requires a detailed assessment with Mr Yapa.
What is the difference between an endoscopic facelift and a deep plane facelift?
An endoscopic facelift works through small hairline incisions, repositioning the deeper tissues without removing skin, making it a less invasive option for the right patient but is nevertheless still a deep plane facelift.
An open deep plane facelift uses longer, carefully planned incisions to allow for skin excision and more comprehensive correction of the lower face and neck. The right choice depends on your anatomy and goals, and is best determined during consultation.
What surgical techniques are used during an endoscopic facelift?
The endoscopic facelift uses a small camera introduced through discreet hairline access incisions to view the deeper layers of the face directly. Specialised instruments are used alongside the endoscope to lift and reposition the underlying facial tissues, which are then secured in their new position.
Depending on your anatomy and goals, the plan may take the form of an endoscopic mid-face lift, a hybrid approach combining open and endoscopic elements, or a more comprehensive full-face endoscopic plan. Mr Yapa will advise on the most appropriate approach during consultation.
Can an endoscopic facelift be combined with other procedures?
An endoscopic brow lift is one of the most common combination procedures, and a combined face and brow lift can be particularly effective for patients with descent across both the midface and the forehead. Many patients also combine treatment with a Lip Lift or Blepharoplasty. It can be combined with a short scar neck lift for a more comprehensive “scarless facelift” procedure which avoid scars in front fo the ears. Mr Yapa will advise on what is appropriate for your goals and general health during consultation.
How do I prepare for an endoscopic facelift?
Mr Yapa will provide a bespoke preparation plan following your consultation. All patients are advised to stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery, maintain a balanced diet, protect the skin from sun exposure in the lead-up to the procedure, and arrange appropriate time off and support at home for the recovery period. Any specific guidance relevant to your health and planned procedure will be covered at your pre-operative appointment.
How long does it take for endoscopic facelift results to show?
Initial improvements are visible once the early swelling and bruising resolve, usually within the first two weeks. The face continues to refine over the following weeks as tissues soften and settle. Most patients find their results look their best from around three months onwards, with continued refinement over the months that follow.
How long do endoscopic facelift results last?
An endoscopic facelift produces long-lasting results, though longevity varies depending on genetics, lifestyle, skin quality, and UV exposure. Yapa Plastic Surgery is among a small number of London clinics offering this technique, and Mr Yapa can advise on complementary treatments that may help endoscopic facelift UK patients maintain their results over time.
Scarless Facelift CONSULTATION LONDON
Book Your Appointment
If you are considering facial rejuvenation and exploring your options, a consultation with Mr Yapa is the right place to start. He consults from his Harley Street clinic in central London, and will assess your anatomy, discuss what an endoscopic facelift could achieve, and give you an honest view of the most appropriate path forward. If a different approach would serve you better, this will be explained to you.
2026 consultation dates are now available to book online, costing £250 (redeemable against your surgery should you wish to go ahead). You can join our waiting list to be notified when new dates become available. For general enquiries or to learn more about our procedures and services, please use the form below to request a callback.
