MODEL RELEASED. Face lift. Image 1 of 3. Surgeon using a scalpel to cut behind the ear of a female patient undergoing a face lift (rhytidectormy). The incision starts at the temple (not seen), moves down in front of the ear and then behind the ear into the hairline. This is repeated on the other side of the face. The surgeon will then separate the skin from underlying muscle. The muscles will be tightened and excess fat removed. The skin can then be lifted up and pulled back to produce a tighter, smoother face. Excess skin will be trimmed off and the incision sewn up. Stitches can be removed five to six days after surgery. See M590/307-309, for a sequence showing a face lift.