Modernizing facelifts at West End Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial plastic surgery is a blend of art and science. As an art, we strive to deliver good looking, natural results. As a science, it evolves as we learn new things, just like any other medical field. Today, I wanted to share recent advancements in facelifts that we offer at West End Facial Plastic Surgery.

To start, let’s review what exactly IS a facelift. Facelifts are operations designed to improve the changes in the face and neck that are signs of aging: joweling and the dreaded “turkey neck.” The first facelifts pulled the skin of the face tighter. Unfortunately, they didn’t work and could cause unsightly scars in front of the patients’ ears. 

The next generation of facelifts worked by tightening the connective tissue layer of the face, also known as the SMAS. The SMAS lives under the skin and surrounds the muscles of your face. By tightening the SMAS using stitches under the surface, we were able to improve the appearance of patients’ jawlines and necks. This is the technique that I used for my first ten years of practice. Incisions are placed around the ears and into the posterior hairline so that they are invisible once they are healed.

The results were pretty good and my patients were happy. However, I am my own worst critic and wanted to achieve even better results for my patients. For the past three years I have added what's known as “deep plane” principles into my facelift procedures.

In a deep plane facelift, we lift the SMAS from the underlying structures in the face and the neck. This results in a superior lift because it allows the tissue to move a lot more than the previous techniques.

Over the past three years, I've successfully incorporated these deep-plane principles into my practice, achieving remarkable transformations in my patients that still look natural. I am committed to offering my patients the very best in facial plastic surgery.

Before a deep plane lift

3 weeks after deep plane facelift and upper blepharoplasty

Now, let's talk about something new I've introduced this year: the mini lift. Recognizing that not everyone is ready for or interested in undergoing extensive surgery, I developed this alternative option. The mini lift focuses on rejuvenating the face and jawline while leaving the neck untouched.

During the procedure, a smaller incision is made in front of the ear, as opposed to the longer incisions required for a traditional facelift. This approach is ideal for individuals looking to revitalize their jawline and under-chin area. A mini lift can be performed using sedation anesthesia or, in some cases, even local anesthesia, making it a convenient and less invasive option.

The mini lift offers excellent results with shorter downtime and less bruising compared to a deep plane lift. While it does not provide the same degree of correction, it serves as a fantastic choice for those who desire a more subtle improvement or have limited time for recovery. Rest assured, the results are impressive, delivering a satisfying boost to your confidence.

When you choose to work with us, you enter into a partnership. Unlike many other medical specialties, where visits are often transactional, our aim is to build long-term relationships. From surgeries to lasers to injectables, I personally oversee every aspect of your care. My team and I take pride in seeing you throughout your journey and ensuring your ongoing satisfaction.

If you're ready to embark on your journey to renewed confidence and a revitalized appearance, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Remember, the key to exceptional results lies in the expertise, commitment, and partnership we offer here at West End Facial Plastic Surgery.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates and success stories from our practice. Together, let's uncover the beauty that lies within!