This procedure involves going beneath the SMAS layer to reposition the deeper tissue, such as the fat pads of the cheek and midface, creating a more youthful facial contour that appears natural . Because this procedure is more extensive then a standard SMAS facelift, swelling and bruising may be more prolonged and the risk of complications is slightly higher. The Procedure A facelift is typically performed in a surgeon's private office operating suite or an outpatient surgical center. It can be performed under general anesthesia or deep IV sedation with local anesthesia. The surgery takes from two to five hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Most patients go home the same day, but some are required to stay in the hospital overnight.
The incisions for a facelift begin in the temple region, come down in front of the ear, go around the ear lobe and into the scalp. These incisions are made to minimize changes in the hairline and to maximize cosmetic appearance by placing them in natural skin creases. These incisions have been used for years with excellent cosmetic results. The skin flap is then elevated and the deeper SMAS is tightened with repositioning of the deeper cheek and midface fat pads. The excessive skin is then trimmed and the incisions are closed with fine sutures to facilitate healing.