Our Summary
The research paper studies the effectiveness and safety of submalar implant augmentation, a plastic surgery procedure, in conjunction with a facelift. As people age or lose weight, they often lose volume in their midface area, resulting in hollowed cheeks. While a facelift can tighten loose skin, it cannot restore lost volume, potentially leaving the person looking thin or gaunt.
Submalar implant augmentation is a surgical procedure that can restore this lost volume for a more youthful appearance. Unlike other treatments like soft tissue fillers, which diminish over time, this method offers permanent results.
This research looked at patients who had both a facelift and submalar implant augmentation in a single surgery. The study found that almost 96% of the patients were satisfied with the results. There were a few minor complications, such as temporary numbness, prolonged swelling, and a minor adjustment needed in a few cases, but no major problems like infection or implant migration occurred.
The study concluded that submalar implant augmentation is a safe and effective way to improve the results of a facelift. It could be a good alternative to repeated soft tissue filler or fat injections for patients who have hollowed cheeks and want facial rejuvenation surgery.
FAQs
- What is submalar implant augmentation and why is it used alongside a facelift?
- How does the effectiveness of submalar implant augmentation compare with other treatments like soft tissue fillers?
- What were the results and complications of the study on patients who had both a facelift and submalar implant augmentation?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient considering a facelift with submalar implant augmentation is to thoroughly research and choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in these procedures. It is important to have a consultation with the surgeon to discuss expectations, potential risks, and recovery time. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions and attending all follow-up appointments are crucial for optimal results and a successful outcome.
Suitable For
Typically, patients who are recommended for a facelift are those who are experiencing sagging or drooping skin in the face and neck area, deep wrinkles, loss of volume in the midface area, and overall signs of aging. Patients who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery are good candidates for a facelift. Additionally, patients who are looking to achieve long-lasting results and are willing to undergo a surgical procedure may also be recommended for a facelift.
Timeline
Before the facelift procedure, a patient may experience concerns about sagging skin, wrinkles, and lost volume in the midface area. They may consult with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and options for facial rejuvenation.
During the facelift procedure, the surgeon will tighten the skin and underlying tissues to create a more youthful appearance. In conjunction with the facelift, submalar implant augmentation may be performed to restore lost volume in the midface area.
After the facelift and submalar implant augmentation, the patient may experience some temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Over time, these side effects will diminish, and the patient will begin to see the final results of the surgery.
In the weeks and months following the procedure, the patient will see a gradual improvement in their facial appearance as the swelling subsides and the implants settle into place. The patient will also attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Overall, the patient can expect to see a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance after undergoing a facelift with submalar implant augmentation, with long-lasting results that can significantly improve their self-confidence and quality of life.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about facelift and submalar implant augmentation include:
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with submalar implant augmentation?
- How long is the recovery time for a facelift combined with submalar implant augmentation?
- Will the implants feel natural and be undetectable to others?
- How long do the results of submalar implant augmentation typically last?
- Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?
- Can submalar implant augmentation be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures?
- How many surgeries of this type have you performed, and what is your success rate?
- Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or touch-ups in the future?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
- Are there any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions I should be aware of?
Reference
Authors: Delaney S, Kridel RWH. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2019 Mar 14;39(4):351-362. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjy135. PMID: 29846508