Our Summary

This research paper presents findings from a study on a specific surgical technique used to treat parotid malignancy, a type of cancer that affects the parotid gland (a large salivary gland near the ear). The technique, known as a modified facelift incision (MFI), was used with or without another procedure called superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) reconstruction. The study found that MFI was effective in treating parotid malignancy in the five patients involved in the study, and suggested it should be considered for tumors not near the SMAS. The patients did not experience recurrence of the cancer or Frey’s syndrome, a condition that can cause sweating while eating, after the procedure. Overall, the study suggests that this surgical approach could be a good option for treating certain small tumors in the parotid gland.

FAQs

  1. What is a modified facelift incision (MFI) and how is it used in treating parotid malignancy?
  2. What is the role of superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) reconstruction in the treatment of parotid malignancy?
  3. What were the results of the study and how effective was the MFI technique in treating parotid malignancy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about facelift surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal results and minimize risks. This may include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and taking care of the incision site to prevent infection. Additionally, it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery and to discuss any concerns or questions with the doctor before proceeding with the procedure.

Suitable For

Facelifts are typically recommended for patients who are looking to address signs of aging in the face and neck, such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of facial volume. Ideal candidates for a facelift are generally in good overall health, do not smoke, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery, and have specific concerns about their facial appearance that they hope to address.

Patients who may benefit from a facelift include those who have:

  • Loose or sagging skin on the face and neck
  • Deep lines and wrinkles on the face
  • Jowls or a loss of definition in the jawline
  • Excess fat or skin in the neck area
  • Loss of facial volume or fullness

It is important for patients considering a facelift to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure and to discuss their goals and expectations. The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s overall health, skin quality, and specific concerns to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for achieving the desired results.

Timeline

Before the facelift procedure:

  1. Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations for the facelift.
  2. Pre-operative assessments and tests are conducted to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Patient is advised to stop smoking and avoid certain medications that may increase the risk of complications.
  4. Patient is given instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting before the procedure.

During the facelift procedure:

  1. Patient is placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.
  2. Incisions are made along the hairline and/or behind the ears to access the underlying facial tissues.
  3. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the underlying muscles and tissues are tightened and repositioned.
  4. Incisions are closed with sutures or surgical staples.
  5. Dressings are applied to protect the incision sites.

After the facelift procedure:

  1. Patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  2. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.
  3. Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow for proper healing.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
  5. Final results of the facelift may not be fully apparent until several months after surgery.
  6. Patient is advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and protect their skin from sun exposure to prolong the results of the facelift.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the recommended timeline for recovery after a facelift procedure?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a facelift?
  3. How long do the results of a facelift typically last?
  4. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to achieve similar results?
  5. How many facelift procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. Can I see before and after photos of previous facelift patients you have treated?
  7. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions or restrictions?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the facelift procedure?
  9. How much scarring can I expect after a facelift, and what can be done to minimize it?
  10. What is the cost of a facelift procedure, and are there any financing options available?

Reference

Authors: Giotakis EI, Giotakis AI. Journal: World J Surg Oncol. 2020 Jan 9;18(1):8. doi: 10.1186/s12957-020-1785-3. PMID: 31918725