Mid-Facelift Surgery

Mid-facelift surgery is a surgical procedure that can be a solution for individuals with sagging cheeks, which we also call “bulldog cheeks”, resulting from the deformation of Zygoma (cheekbone) and Jaw Line due to the effect of gravity. Mid-facelift, which is sometimes called a cheek lift, is a cosmetic procedure that tightens the skin from the upper part of the mouth to the eye area.

Mid-facelift gives the face a more youthful look and also corrects the sunken appearance of the skin under the eyes. Similar to the SMAS facelift, the mid-facelift manipulates the underlying muscles in order to create a longer-lasting solution for individuals with sagging skin and facial contours. In addition, mid-facelift erases fine lines and wrinkles around the temples by suspending the cheek fat pad and eye muscle for creating a complete transformation in the middle third of the face.

The target area of the mid-facelift is the cheek and the area under the eyes, which will result in a younger look. It does not target the jawline or forehead. A full facelift is a better option for treating these areas.

 

When Should Mid-Facelift Be Considered?

- If you think there are visible signs of aging in the area between your eyes and jawline,

- If you have sagging cheeks and facial wrinkles around your mouth,

- If you think you have sunken eyes.

If you experience one or more of the problems mentioned above, if your overall health is good and you have realistic expectations, if you feel ready and have a positive attitude about this procedure, you can be an excellent candidate for this procedure.

 

Pros

A more youthful appearance,

Prominent cheekbones and brighter eyes,

Tight cheeks and jawline.

 

Cons

A facelift does not create a new look for you; it just creates a younger version of you.

Depending on your age and skin type, you may wish to undergo a second procedure later.

 

How is Mid-Facelift Performed?

After the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon separates the skin from the forehead and cheek muscles by making an incision around the hairline and forehead in order to access the sagging facial muscles. At this point, the surgeon will reposition the weakened muscles to their new positions. The raised "flap" includes the SMAS muscle, the malar fat pad, and the orbicularis oculi muscle. These muscles will then be fixed in a higher position closer to the temples and the edges of the eye bone. It is common for patients to combine the midface lift with other procedures such as a blepharoplasty or fat graft procedure to improve the overall outcome.

The purpose of the mid-facelift is to lift the cheek area and rejuvenate the face by treating fine lines around the mouth and lower orbit.

 

How Long Does the Outcome Last?

The result is noticeable immediately after the surgery, and the effect lasts for 10 to 15 years. It is long-lasting; however, it will, unfortunately, be affected by continued aging and gravity.

 

Risks

Serious risks are rare, and the post-operative satisfaction rate is high in mid-facelift procedures.

Yet, all surgical procedures have a certain degree of risk. Some of the possible complications of all surgical procedures include:

- Reaction to anesthesia.

- Hematoma or seroma (accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin, which requires removal).

- Infection and bleeding.

- Changes in skin sensation.

- Scarring.

- Allergic reactions.

- Unsatisfactory results that may require additional procedures.

- Numbness and tightness in the surgical area, which usually improves within a few months.

 

Process

- Following all the instructions given by your surgeon is very important for the healthy progress of your healing process (such as post-operative bandage, drain, incision care, medication/cream use, etc.).

- The duration of stay in the hospital is 2 days unless there is a medical necessity.

- After being discharged, you will have post-operative follow-ups on the days to be determined by the surgeon.

- Avoid activities that may raise your blood pressure and cause bleeding at the surgical site for the first ten days.

- It may take one week to return to your daily routine; however, if you are employed, it is recommended that you take 2 weeks off if possible.

You may have a feeling of tightness and pain in your seams for the first three days. This can be relieved with painkillers, and it will decrease over time.

- You may need to be accompanied by a relative for a few days as you may feel tired and sensitive due to your surgery.

- Do not drive during the first 10 days.

- Heavy exercise and heavy lifting, including infants/children, should be avoided for one month after the procedure.

- Smoking reduces circulation, delays wound healing and significantly increases the likelihood of serious complications; therefore, you should discontinue smoking at least four weeks before and four weeks after your procedure.

It is recommended that you do not expose your incisions to excessive force or movement, and avoid exercises that directly force the area, especially during the first four weeks.