Facelifts are a well-known and sought-after cosmetic procedure aimed at reversing the signs of aging. By effectively tightening and lifting both the facial skin and underlying tissues, facelifts can help individuals achieve a more youthful appearance. As techniques in cosmetic surgery continue to evolve, numerous facelift techniques have been developed to specifically target different areas of the face and cater to varying stages of aging. In today's blog, we will delve into the various kinds of facelifts, their benefits, and any potential drawbacks to consider.

The skin-only facelift, one of the oldest methods in facial rejuvenation, focuses solely on making discreet incisions in front of the ear and an S-shaped cut behind the jawline and around the neck to remove loose skin. These incisions enable the surgeon to lift the top layer of skin away from the underlying facial muscles and tissues.

This procedure elevates the skin and reshapes the muscles and underlying tissues to achieve a smooth, wrinkle-free appearance. However, this technique is now seldom used, as it only affects the skin and lacks the long-lasting results provided by the SMAS or deep-plane facelifts.

Drawbacks

Not Long-Lasting: Because it does not address the underlying musculature or connective tissue, the results of a skin-only facelift tend to be short-lived.

Unnatural Appearance: This facelift technique can create a "pulled" look, often resulting in an unnatural appearance.

Scarring: Due to the tension placed on the skin, there is a higher risk of noticeable, wide scars.

As a result, the skin-only facelift is not commonly used today, as more advanced techniques offer better and more natural-looking outcomes.

Read More:  5 Signs You Might Be Ready For A Facelift

2. SMAS Facelift

The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) facelift is an advanced technique that focuses on the deeper layers of the face, such as the muscle and connective tissue. By specifically targeting these underlying structures, the SMAS facelift offers longer-lasting and more natural-looking results. The plastic surgeon repositions, reshapes, and smooths the SMAS layer to reduce wrinkles, resulting in a youthful and vibrant look.

Techniques

Plication: The SMAS is folded and sutured to provide lift and support.

SMAS Stacking: Layers of the SMAS are stacked and sutured together for added volume and lift.

SMASectomy: A portion of the lateral SMAS is removed, and the remaining SMAS is sutured to lift and support the face.

Benefits

Long-Lasting Results: By addressing deeper structures, the SMAS facelift provides more durable outcomes.

Natural Appearance: This technique avoids the "pulled" look by distributing tension across the deeper tissues rather than the skin.

The SMAS facelift is one of the most commonly performed facelift techniques today, offering a good balance between effectiveness and safety.

Learn More: Demystifying The Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift procedure goes a step further than the SMAS facelift by fully releasing the retaining ligaments of the face. This allows for more extensive repositioning of the facial tissues.

Procedure

-The superficial layer of the SMAS is undermined, and retaining ligaments are released.

-Excess SMAS tissue is trimmed, eliminating lax skin, and the remaining SMAS is elevated and resutured.

Benefits & Risks

More Aggressive: The deep plane facelift can achieve more dramatic results by allowing for greater repositioning of tissues and improvement of deep wrinkles like nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Patients will also notice improvement in their jowl and neck areas.

Higher Risk: This technique carries a higher risk of nerve injury and swelling due to its more invasive nature. There is in effect more risk and a longer recovery.

Debatable Longevity: While some believe the deep plane facelift offers longer-lasting results, this is still debated among surgeons.

The deep plane facelift is suited for patients seeking significant rejuvenation and are willing to accept the higher risks associated with this technique.

Read The Blog: 4 Telltale Signs Of A Bad Facelift

The mini facelift, also known as a "weekend facelift," is a less invasive option that targets early signs of aging, primarily in the lower face. This surgical facelift technique involves making small, discreet incisions beneath the hairline, allowing the surgeon to tighten and smooth the skin while removing excess tissue. A mini facelift is typically effective in reducing or eliminating minor jowls, which often develop around the lower cheeks and mouth with age.

Procedure

Shorter incisions are made around the ears.
Minimal dissection and undermining are performed to lift and tighten the skin.

No two faces are exactly alike, and a good facelift surgeon will tailor the type of facelift to meet the individual needs of each patient. Whether it's the skin-only facelift, SMAS facelift, deep plane facelift, endoscopic mid-face lift, or mini facelift, each technique offers unique benefits and addresses specific aging concerns. Consulting with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is essential to determine the best approach for achieving your aesthetic goals and ensuring natural-looking, and long-lasting results.

Book your complimentary consultation with Dr. Burns to discover the facelift technique best-suited for you.