A facelift is the removal of skin that is sagging due to ageing. The operation is done by tightening the skin on the sides of the face, stretching and re-stitching the excess parts. As with any surgery, there are very important guidelines for facelift surgery. One of the most important is to protect the facial nerve, which drives the facial mimic muscles. This nerve divides into very thin branches in both cheek areas and lies under the skin. A facelift is recommended for women and men after 40 years of age. Typically, patients in their 40s and 50s will not undergo a general facelift but a mini facelift of the upper, middle or lower face.