Rhinoplasty, facelifts, eyelid surgery and other facial aesthetic procedures — what each involves, recovery timelines and indicative South African costs, with guidance on choosing a qualified facial surgeon.
Facial plastic surgery reshapes features and reverses signs of ageing, aiming for natural, balanced results that suit the individual face. It differs from non-surgical treatments in its permanence, intensity and recovery. The decision should be grounded in clear goals, realistic expectations and a qualified surgeon — never impulse or pressure. Each procedure below shows indicative recovery and South African cost ranges.
Cost & recovery are estimates. Actual price varies with the surgeon, province, theatre and anaesthesia fees, and case complexity. Recovery timelines are typical ranges — your own healing, procedure extent and surgeon’s plan determine yours. Always get a written quote at consultation.
Reshapes the nose aesthetically and functionally
1–2 weeks off · up to 1 year for final shape
R40,000 – R90,000
Reshapes the nose for appearance and sometimes breathing — often combined with septoplasty. One of the most technically demanding and personal facial procedures. Results are permanent, with final shape settling over a year. Functional work may attract partial medical aid.
Best for
Lifts and tightens deeper facial tissues
2–4 weeks off · months for final result
R70,000 – R150,000
Lifts and tightens the deeper facial tissues (SMAS) and removes excess skin for a refreshed, less tired appearance. Modern techniques target deeper layers for longer-lasting, natural results. Complements eyelid surgery and skin treatments but doesn't replace them.
Best for
Refreshes the upper and/or lower eyelids
1–2 weeks off
R30,000 – R70,000
Removes excess skin, fat and muscle from the upper and/or lower eyelids to refresh the eye area and, in the upper lid, improve vision when drooping interferes. One of the highest-satisfaction facial procedures — noticeable but natural.
Best for
Raises a drooping brow and smooths the forehead
1–2 weeks off
R40,000 – R80,000
Raises a drooping brow and smooths forehead lines for a more alert, open expression. Can be done endoscopically (smaller incisions) or via a traditional approach. Often combined with a facelift or eyelid surgery.
Best for
Pins back prominent ears
1 week off · headband for several weeks
R25,000 – R50,000
Reshapes or pins back prominent ears to bring them closer to the head. Commonly performed on children (from ~5–6 years) and adults. Low-risk, high-satisfaction procedure with hidden scars behind the ear.
Best for
Restores lost volume using your own fat
1–2 weeks off
R25,000 – R60,000
Transfers fat from another area (e.g. abdomen, thighs) via liposuction to restore volume in the cheeks, temples, under-eyes or lips. Uses your own tissue, so no allergy risk. Some fat reabsorbs; the result that survives is permanent and natural-looking.
Best for
Aesthetic surgery should be performed by an HPCSA-registered plastic surgeon with hospital privileges. Verify registration, experience and before/after work before booking.