The mid-face addresses the early signs of aging that emerge in the mid-face around the cheeks and under the eyes. Aging causes the cheekbones to lose their structure deepening nasolabial creases (i.e., smile lines or cheek folds) and increasing lower eyelid depression. These changes make the face appear saggy, sad, and even angry. The mid-face lift elevates sagging skin and cheek fat, reducing smile lines and relieving lower eyelid depression for a younger, firmer appearance in the mid-face.
This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with a Facelift, Endoscopic Forehead lift, Skin Resurfacing, or other desired procedures.
Before Surgery
- Avoid taking any medicines containing aspirin or ibuprofen during the two weeks prior to surgery.
- Be certain you do not have a cold or sunburn the day of surgery.
- Eat a balanced nutrient-rich diet before and after surgery. A healthy diet will help speed recovery.
- Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery, unless instructed differently by our anesthesia provider.
- Do not wear make-up or contact lenses to surgery.
- Arrange to have someone take you home after surgery and stay with you that evening and, if possible, help you around the house for a few days while you recover.
The Procedure
A mid-face lift typically takes two to three hours depending on the extent of the procedure. The procedure is performed in our state accredited surgery center on an outpatient basis. Patients are given general anesthesia during this procedure.
- After the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon makes an incision in the temporal hair and in front of the ear. An incision inside the mouth is sometimes used as well.
- The surgeon vertically repositions the malar fat pads over the cheekbones.
- The incisions are closed with stitches and the area is cleaned. Incision sites are dressed with gauze and elastic bandages.
After Surgery
After the procedure, patients may experience some numbness, swelling or discomfort at the incision sight. This is normal and will pass with time. Incision site pain is usually minimal, but can be controlled with medication, if necessary. Swelling can be treated with a cold compress.
By the next day patients should be up and about, although he/she should continue to take it easy. Also within the first two days, bandages are usually removed. Afterwards, you should be able to shower and shampoo your hair. Within one week, stitches are removed.
Recovery
Most patients are back at work within seven to ten days following surgery. Within three weeks most visible signs of surgery should be gone. Although patients are ready to return to work, they should plan to limit rigorous activity for several weeks. Prolonged heat and sun exposure should be limited for several months. Minor swelling and bruising can be concealed with special camouflage make-up.
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