What is it?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, and necklift, are the gold standard surgical treatments for achieving a comprehensive facial rejuvenation. It is primarily recommended for patients who present with a moderate to severe degree of facial sagging, or ptosis, characterized by a deepening of the facial sulcus and loss of facial volume.
When is it indicated?
This surgery is suggested when characteristic facial changes occur, such as tissue accumulation in the lower third of the face, leading to a loss of mandibular contour, or sagging tissues in the middle third of the face, resulting in a pronounced nasolabial fold. These alterations typically arise due to facial aging, which involves a deflation and drooping of facial tissues. This is caused by an increase in laxity of facial ligaments that support these tissues, an increase in skin laxity and a progressive reduction in the volume of facial fat compartments.
What does the Deep Plane technique consist of and why is it used?
The Deep Plane technique allows for the repositioning of all facial tissues through manipulation and elevation of the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system of the face). This in turn results in the lifting and repositioning of other facial structures, such as the fat compartments and skin. This technique allows for a more complete, natural and enduring facial rejuvenation as the facelift is performed through stronger, deeper structures, rather than isolated skin traction.
Where are the scars located?
Scars resulting from the excision of redundant skin on the face are strategically positioned in less visible locations, specifically the pre-auricular and retro-auricular regions (in front and behind the ear). These are done with meticulous suturing techniques to enhance the surgical result.
Can it be combined with other surgeries?
Since facial aging often coincides with neck aging, it's common to perform a facelift in conjunction with a necklift to achieve more comprehensive and harmonious results. Moreover, facelift rejuvenation can also be amplified through its combination with other surgical techniques such as blepharoplasty, brow lift, lip lift, or ALLFACE (facial rejuvenation with fat).