Facelift

SUSPENSION AND MINI-LIFTS

There are alternatives to a surgical facelift. However, these options may not be appropriate for every patient, nor do they mimic the results of a true facelift. Though these alternatives go by many different names, more important is the technique used and the conditions addressed.

Limited and minimal-incision facelift procedures

Sometimes called a mid-facelift or an S-lift (from the shape of the resulting incision), this procedure uses techniques similar to a facelift, but only to treat the limited areas that require rejuvenation. It is more often appropriate for younger patients. Limited facelift procedures may also include an incision inside the lower eyelid. Patients who truly need a full facelift should listen to the advice of their plastic surgeon, as limited incision facelifts cannot accomplish the same degree of correction.

Endoscopic facelift

A limited-incision facelift may utilize the assistance of an endoscope. An endoscope works well for a browlift, but not as well on the face because it doesn't address all three components of the face: muscle, fat and skin. In fact, it only can address muscle.

Mini-lifts or suspension lifts

The names are countless—featherlift, lunchtime lift, suspension lift, barbed sutures and APTOS—but they all mean one thing: minimal incisions and threaded permanent sutures to hold the skin in a suspended position. Under local anesthesia in a doctor's office, a small incision in the hairline allows for placement of a thin, needle-like tube. A suture is inserted through the tube then reversed back to the original incision in the hairline. The suture left behind will suspend the skin, giving the appearance of a lift and the smoothing of facial creases and folds. Don't be mislead: This is not a procedure without downtime. You may be swollen and bruised for a week or more. And there are some risks. Skin that is too loose may pucker. Asymmetry and other irregularities are also possible. Sutures that are too tight may restrict natural facial movement and expression. In rare cases, sutures may become visible on the skin's surface. In addition, infection is possible. If and when the threads are removed, resulting scar tissue may produce visible irregularities in the skin. Younger patients who are looking for an interim step before a true facelift may find visible improvement with these procedures, but results may be unpredictable.

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