Understanding mid facelift (Mid Face Suspension)
The goal of the mid facelift is to elevate and tighten the soft tissue of the cheek area. A secondary goal is to restore the lower eyelid and cheek region to a more youthful form. These goals are accomplished by lifting the fallen soft tissue on top of the nasolabial fold (fold or crease between the nostril, lip and cheek) and by reducing the hollowness between the lower eyelids and middle of the cheeks.
A youthful face has fullness in the central portion of the face. During the third decade of life, this region may begin to droop and lose volume. Part of this drooping is a result of the sagging fat pads of the face or loss of facial fat. Sun damage, loss of skin elasticity and other changes can also hasten the gaunt or uneven look seen in many people over the age of 40.
When performed by a skillful surgeon, a mid facelift will result in a more natural, noticeable improvement. For younger patients, the mid facelift is a way to restore a more youthful contour without more extensive surgery. For older patients, the mid facelift is often performed with other procedures such as facelift, eyelid surgery, fat transfer and brow or forehead lift.
Understanding the procedure
The mid facelift is performed as an outpatient procedure with general anesthesia or local anesthesia and I.V. sedation. The surgeon places a small incision in the hair-bearing area above each ear. An additional incision is made inside the mouth through the underside of the upper lip. Instruments are introduced through the incisions to lift the soft tissues off the cheekbones so they can be elevated and repositioned upward. A device is inserted to ensure proper placement of the soft tissues. The body absorbs this device in four to six months. The incisions in the mouth are closed with absorbable sutures to avoid the need for removal. Since the incisions are located in the hair and within the mouth, there is no significant visible scarring. It typically takes between thirty to sixty days for the swelling of the repositioned tissue over the cheekbones to subside.
Understanding the recovery
Immediately following the surgery, the patient may experience some temporary swelling and bruising in the mid-face area. It is important to rest and sleep in an elevated position for at least two weeks following the procedure in order to minimize any swelling and bruising.
Patients experience mild to moderate discomfort that can be controlled with prescription medications. Chewing is limited for seven to ten days and a liquid or soft food diet is required during this time period. Activities such as lifting and bending are limited for several days and facial expressions are also restricted. Pressure to the cheek areas should be avoided for four to six weeks following the procedure. Although the cheek areas are swollen and tender for a few weeks, recovery is usually rapid. Most patients return to work in a few days.
Numbness may occur as a result of stretching the nerve but will resolve as the swelling subsides. A wry smile, though uncommon, is another issue involving the facial muscles that resolves as the tissue heals.
