facelift's current state and points to know—the facelift, we explain points worth knowing when considering it, drawing on actual case experience.
faceliftis an effective surgery for improving facial sagging, but firmly grasping its details brings peace of mind. Including questions raised by patients in daily practice, we explain an overview of the surgery.
* About This Article:Medical effects vary by individual. The information provided shows general trends; please consult a physician for detailed matters.
References
- Stein M, Shah N, Harrast J, et al. Clinical Practice Patterns in Facelift Surgery: A 15-Year Review of Continuous Certification Tracer Data from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2024 DOI
- Gonzalez H, Koralnik I, Marra C. Neurosyphilis. Seminars in Neurology. 2019 DOI
What Is a Facelift—Techniques and Types for Addressing Facial Sagging
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgery aimed at improving sagging and skin laxity of the face and neck. As age advances, skin elasticity declines, making this surgery an important option.
Among these techniques, the following are important points in actual selection:
- Skin-lift method: A simple technique that pulls up only the skin.
- SMAS method: A method that lifts together with the muscular membrane beneath the skin (SMAS: superficial musculoaponeurotic system).
- MACS lift (minimal-access cranial suspension lift): This method is a variant of the SMAS method, achieving the effect with a smaller incision.
- Endoscopic facelift: A minimally invasive surgery using an endoscope.
"Which technique should I actually choose?"—this is something patients frequently ask in the consultation room. Sagging is caused not only by "skin laxity" but sometimes by "loss of fat or volume." Against this backdrop, the tendency to take a combined approach according to the patient's condition is strengthening.
Commonly Reported Complication Risks
Regarding complications after facelift surgery, commonly reported ones include:
- Hematoma (a state where blood pools beneath the skin)
- Nerve impairment (effects on sensation or movement)
- Infection or wound complications
When surgery is performed appropriately, the risk of serious complications can be reduced, but risk cannot be completely avoided. Actual case data and detailed risk assessment will be carefully explained in an individual consultation.
Reference:Stein et al. (2024) — Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
The Much-Noted SMAS Method—Reasons to Choose It and Points of Caution
The SMAS method is a technique that has delivered stable results through past cases. It is impressive that especially in cases of moderate to severe sagging, a sustained improvement effect can often be expected. However, results tend to differ depending on the physician's mastery of the technique, so we recommend confirming the physician's experience.
Combining Fat Grafting—Aiming for a More Natural Result
Performing fat grafting along with the facelift can be expected to improve facial volume and contour. It is not suitable for all patients, so a plan tailored to each person's condition is important.
- Since one's own tissue is used, there is little worry about a foreign-body reaction
- Sagging correction and volume replenishment can be done simultaneously
- A more flexible surgical plan is possible
Those interested in the surgery may also refer tothe explanation of partial volume replenishment with hyaluronic acid for reference.
Day Surgery on the Rise—An Increasingly Diverse Surgical Environment
Mini lifts, MACS lifts, and others—depending on the technique, cases that can be handled as day surgery are increasing. Being able to choose hospitalization or day surgery to match the patient's lifestyle and recovery environment is also a modern advantage. It is important to have specific discussions in advance, including the post-op care plan.
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Summary
A facelift is a surgery that improves facial sagging, but the key is a long-term perspective that considers technique choice, complication risk, combining fat grafting, and even the convenience of outpatient handling. To devise the optimal treatment plan for each individual case, detailed examination and consultation are essential.
When considering facelift surgery, please weigh the most suitable treatment plan based on dialogue with an experienced medical professional.
About the Author
Hiromitsu Nakamura M.D.
Zetith Beauty Clinic Ginza, Osaka, Fukuoka
Has a track record of research presentations at domestic and international conferences, and is also involved in technical guidance and education across Zetith Beauty Clinic. Specializing in precise rhinoplasty based on anatomical evidence, he pursues natural results tailored to each person's bone structure and tissue.