What are the Different Techniques for a Facelift?

With over a dozen different techniques and types of facelifts, it's hard to know which one is right for you. 

Facelift Techniques

Here are some types:

  • Mini-lift:  A “mini-lift” refers to a number of different techniques with limited incisions, and usually are best for patients with very early signs of aging.
  • S-lift:  This type gets its name from an s-shaped incision in the hairline at the temple and in front of the ear.  This is best for those without significant laxity of the neck skin.
  • Mid-facelift: The surgeon makes tiny incisions in the hairline above the patient's ear, as well as inside the mouth. During the procedure, the surgeon pulls the fat pads in the cheeks up and over the cheekbones to tighten sagging skin in the cheekbone area. Doctors often perform this procedure using an endoscope, a tiny camera that allows the doctor to visualize the surgical area.
  • SMAS:  The SMAS (sub or superficial muscular and aponeurotic system) is a sheet of muscle and connective tissue on the cheek that contributes to facial expression.  Over time the SMAS can become lax and sag.  The most common SMAS lift repositions skin and underlying muscle of the cheek to more adequately correct jowls and skin laxity.
  • Sub-periosteal lift:  The “sub-periosteal lift” is another type of deep plane facelift commonly performed with the aid of an endoscope, a tiny camera attached to a probe to allow visualization of the surgical area through very small incisions. Facial implants may also be easily placed at the same time, since implants are positioned directly on the bone, which has already been separated from overlying structures.

If you a considering a particular type of facelift, please consult a board certified, licensed plastic surgeon.

 

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