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Midface Lift

Each third of the face ages in a distinct fashion. Over the last two decades, treatment of the mid-third of the face, or midface, has received much attention in the surgical literature. As we age, the fullness of the cheek area (midface) starts to drop with gravity. This not only gives the cheek a hollow look, but it also changes the appearance of the lower eyelid and creates deep grooves around the mouth. While this area can be addressed by certain facelift techniques, some patients will benefit most from a directed midface lift.

Our board-certified facial plastic surgeons perform midface lift surgery at our Palo Alto location and provide consults at our downtown Los Gatos, CA, office as well.

What Is a Midface Lift?

A midface lift rejuvenates the cheek and lower eyelid area. It’s performed through an endoscopic incision hidden in the hairline and diminishes the nasolabial folds, aging in the midface and may also improve the jowl area.

How Is a Midface Lift Performed?

The procedure typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. Midface lifting is performed via an endoscopic approach using incisions hidden behind the hairline. As a midface lift is being performed, a lateral brow lift may also be performed simultaneously. As the soft tissue of the cheek is suspended to a more youthful position, the excess skin must be redistributed along the forehead and then into the hairline. Doing these procedures together allows a simultaneous rejuvenation of the cheek, the brow and the forehead. Often the lower eyelids are addressed at the time of surgery through a lower blepharoplasty to produce the most harmonious and youthful result.

What Should I Expect the Day of Surgery?

A midface lift with a brow lift and/or a blepharoplasty can be performed under either twilight sleep (IV sedation) or general anesthesia. Prior to surgery you will meet the anesthesia team and be asked to review any allergies, as well as your major medical history. You’ll be given a medication to help you relax. We work hard with the anesthesiologist to minimize any nausea or pain after surgery.

After 1 to 2 hours of recovery, you can be discharged from the surgery center with a family member or friend. We ask that someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.

Midface Lift & Neck Lift Recovery

BANDAGE REMOVAL 1 day

SUTURE REMOVAL 7 days

RETURN TO WORK 2 weeks

75% RECOVERY 2 months

100% RECOVERY 6 months

Although this procedure is minimally invasive, initial recovery may take 2 to 3 weeks with improving results over several months. Our core objective is to provide a safe, comfortable surgical experience that aspires to restore your appearance and aims to produce natural-looking results. We have provided before & after photos of our patients to help you visualize the possibilities.

What Is a Non-Surgical Facelift?

There are options available for patients are interested in facial rejuvenation without surgery. Visit our Non-Surgical Facelift page for dedicated information about non-invasive treatment options such as liquid facelift, Ultherapy^®, and FaceTite.

Request your consultation online or call  (650) 327-3232 to schedule an appointment to see us in our Palo Alto or Los Gatos offices.

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