Midfacelifts are performed when a more subtle improvement is needed. Although a midface lift is similar to a facelift in that both address drooping or sagging skin, wrinkles and signs of premature aging, satisfying results can be achieved through smaller incisions with a mid facelift. Also, patients who qualify for a midfacelift generally need less muscle tightening, so there is less bruising.
Midfacelifts are state of the art technology that not all plastic surgeons are skilled in performing. Therefore, it is vital that your screening process includes a review of before and after photographs of the doctor's endoscopic midfacelift results.
Am I a candidate for a midfacelift?
Best candidates for a midfacelift are people with hollowed out eyes, deep smile lines and a fallen brow. Typically the midface (cheek area) starts to drop in the mid thirties and becomes more apparent in our 40's and 50's.
In general we recommend mid facelift procedures for three reasons:
A) A midfacelift helps us address the lower eyelid better by padding the bony rim. We remove less fat and are able to remove more skin without eyelid changes
B) We can address corrugators muscles (there's another big word! It is pronounced cor U gay tor) - the muscles between the eyes that form an 11 - and make some people look like they're angry even if they're not. Addressing these eyebrow muscles has a tremendous benefit to softening a "hard" look that is a frequent complaint of patients.
C) The eyebrows can be either raised or lowered - depending on what is indicated. Many patients are concerned that they will have a "surprised look" following a facelift or brow lift. It's important to know that with a midfacelift and/or brow lift, we can maintain the brow in the same position, lift the brow or lower the brow. Brow placement is an individual characteristic that is significantly affected by the patient’s desires.
How do I know if I need a midfacelift or a facelift?
Many factors including age, genetics, previous sun exposure, tobacco abuse, skin type and skin elasticity all play a role in assessing if a midfacelift would be the right way to go. The only way to know for sure is a consultation with a board certified facial plastic surgeon. Be sure your cosmetic surgeon is comfortable with the endoscopic approach to facelifts. Don't be afraid to ask questions!
Where are the incisions for a midfacelift?
Since midfacelifts can be performed endoscopically, incisions measure generally about one half to one inch. These smaller incisions are placed behind the ears in the hairline so they are well camouflaged. The ear incisions have a small component that comes in front of the ear but still the incision is much less than that of a full facelift.
Is the healing time less with a midfacelift?
In general, yes. Midfacelifts involve less muscle tightening so there is less bruising. Patients typically return to work and activities in about seven to ten days although restrictions limiting heavy lifting, bending and straining along with aerobic activity remain for two weeks following the mid facelift procedure.
When can I return to work after my mid facelift procedure?
As we said, patients typically return to work and activities anywhere from seven to ten days although restrictions limiting heavy lifting, bending and straining along with aerobic activity remain for two weeks following the procedure.
What's involved with a midfacelift?
Preoperative and postoperative mid facelift instructions are the same as for a full face lift.
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