Which Facelift Procedure is Right
Sep 17, 2013
Thanks to breakthroughs in medical science and technology, cosmetic surgery is more safe and effective than ever before. If you are interested in a facelift, there are many procedures available for a variety of cosmetic goals. Although its important to consult a surgeon before deciding which treatment is best, this article will introduce to the most popular facelift procedures and point you in the right direction.
1. Mid Facelift
When the area of the face between the cheeks flattens without sagging in the neck, a mid facelift is often suggested. The mid facelift rejuvenates the face, as opposed to a full facelift that is a more drastic surgery. The surgeon will make several small incisions along the patients hairline and inside the mouth to lift and reposition the fatty layers. This procedure results in practically no scars and has a rather short recovery time.
2. Mini Facelift
The mini facelift is the least invasive facelift and is comparable to a full facelift. Unfortunately, the results may not last as long. During the procedure, an incision is made from the hairline around the ear, and the scar is hidden in the natural folds of the patients skin. The surgeon will use an endoscope to reposition the soft tissues and a suture to reposition the skin.
3. Thread Lift
The thread lift is a less invasive procedure that is used to treat minor sagging in the eyes, forehead and nasolabial fold. Threads hold the skin in place, which will not be absorbed or dissolved. No skin is cut away in this procedure.
4. Skin-Only Facelift
With the skin-only facelift, only the facial skin is lifted, excluding the SMAS layer of ligaments and muscles. The longevity of this type of facelift is short due to the lack of elasticity in the patients skin. However, this procedure has fewer complications than others.
5. MACS Facelift
During a Minimal Access Cranial Suspension (MACS) lift, the surgeon fixes sagging facial features with a small incision. It is a safer procedure compared to other options and results in a smaller scar due to the amount of skin raised. This reduces the risk of bleeding and nerve damage. There is also a shorter recovery time, resulting in a more natural look.
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is defined by theAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeonsas a procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck, such as sagging, deep creases, fallen fat and loose skin or muscle. Dr. John Freeman practices in Houston, TX and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery. For a professional facelift in the Houston, TX area, call Dr. Freeman at 281-599-9445.