Our Summary

This study presents a new surgical technique for performing facelifts, specifically in the mid-face and temporal regions. The authors explain that this method is quick, safe, and results in a more flexible facial flap. The procedure involves making an incision just above a layer of connective tissue (the subgaleal fascia), which allows for a large surface area for healing and numerous sutures to share the tension during surgery.

The study followed 40 female patients who had undergone this procedure, with the longest follow-up period of 26 months. The surgeons did not observe any major complications. However, in five cases, patients experienced temporary facial nerve weakness, and in one instance, a patient showed signs of depression in the temporal area eight months post-surgery. This was treated with a fat injection. Another patient experienced hair loss along the surgical line, but this could be hidden with hair.

Though the initial healing period may be somewhat challenging, the authors suggest that this new technique offers long-lasting results and should be considered for rejuvenating the areas around the eyes and mid-face. The study is classified as Level I evidence, meaning it’s a high-quality randomized trial or systematic review.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical technique for facelifts presented in this study?
  2. What kind of complications were observed during this study on the new facelift technique?
  3. How does the new facelift technique offer long-lasting results?

Doctor’s Tip

One important tip a doctor might tell a patient considering a facelift is to carefully follow all post-operative instructions for optimal healing and results. This may include proper wound care, avoiding certain activities or positions that could put strain on the incision sites, and attending all follow-up appointments with your surgeon. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure and to communicate openly with your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have.

Suitable For

Facelifts are typically recommended for patients who are looking to address signs of aging in the mid-face and temporal regions. This may include sagging skin, deep lines and wrinkles, loss of facial volume, and jowling. Patients who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery, and are non-smokers are generally considered good candidates for a facelift. It’s important for patients to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for a facelift and to discuss the best surgical technique for their individual needs.

Timeline

Before the facelift:

  • Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations
  • Pre-operative medical evaluation and tests are conducted
  • Patient may be advised to stop smoking and avoid certain medications before surgery
  • Surgery date is scheduled

After the facelift:

  • Patient experiences swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days post-surgery
  • Sutures are removed after about a week
  • Swelling and bruising gradually subside over the next few weeks
  • Patient may need to limit physical activity and avoid sun exposure for a period of time
  • Final results become apparent after several months
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific technique will be used for my facelift procedure?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery period, and what can I expect during the healing process?
  4. What kind of results can I realistically expect from this facelift technique?
  5. How many times have you performed this particular procedure, and what is your success rate?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in the future to maintain the results of the facelift?
  8. What kind of post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be necessary?
  9. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone this specific technique?
  10. What is the overall cost of the procedure, including any additional fees or costs for follow-up appointments or aftercare?

Reference

Authors: Şirinoğlu H, Güvercin E. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2023 Nov-Dec 01;34(8):2470-2474. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000009525. Epub 2023 Jul 14. PMID: 37449577