Healthy Lifestyle

There are several types of rhytidectomy depending on the type of incision, the number of tissue layers manipulated, the area of the face affected, and the degree of invasiveness of the procedure. It’s always best to consult with you cosmetic surgery clinic before making any decisions regarding cosmetic surgery.

The Classic or Superficial Musculoaponeurotic (SMAS) Lift

The SMAS is a group of ligaments present in the face whose function is to hold the skin in place. Consequently, the SMAS prevent surgeons from straightening the skin effectively and durably. Some surgeries therefore prefer to cut the links between the underlying muscle (the platysma), the SMAS and the skin in order to better able to rearrange the tissues at will. This is a very invasive procedure that can give rise to many complications. The results are however dramatic.

Deep Plane Facelift

This is a modification of the SMAS technique which aims at correcting the nasolabial folds. These are the facial lines that run in the shape of parentheses from the nose to the mouth. They become quite pronounced with age and are a major sign of ageing. The deep plane lift helps correct these signs as well as other signs of ageing in the mid-face area (as opposed to SMAS which can only reach the lower face). However, the deep plane lift is more extensive than other facelifts, increasing the recovery time. By touching deeper tissues, the surgeon comes quite close to the nerves so that the risk of nerve injury is greater.

Minimal Incision Lift (Mini lift)

Alternatively known as the short scar facelift, this technique disturbs less tissue, is less risky, heals faster and allows people to resume daily life faster than standard techniques. Newer mini lift procedures give more adequate results without the disadvantages of standard lifts. The major advantages of this procedure are:

• 1. Less complications
  2. Can be performed with conscious sedation (general anesthesia is not needed)
  3. Minimal scarring as incisions are made around the ear and within the hairline but does not extend downwards onto the neck.
  4. Very short procedure: 1-2 hours.

Nevertheless, there are certain disadvantages such as:

• 1. It may not suit all patients (depending on the wishes and age of the patient)
  2. More difficult than traditional facelifts, requiring better skilled surgeons
  3. Does not allay risks of normal surgery (hematoma, infection and poor wound healing)

Endoscopic Facelift

This refers to the use of an endoscope (a tiny camera fitted at the end of a probe) that enables the surgeon to see the internal structures of the face. This apparatus is inserted through small incisions that are easily hidden (behind the ears and /or in the hairline). Two or more such incisions are needed for a typical facelift. Most facelift procedures can be performed with an endoscope.

Its advantages:

• 1. Smaller incisions
  2. Less swelling, bruising and bleeding
  3. Faster recovery

On the other hand, it has limited application since it can only be used to correct sagging cheeks. It cannot be used in neck lifts.