As we age, sun-damage, gravity and fat deflation cause aging of the face and its “collapse”. One area in which these effects are significant is the midface (cheek) area, which extends from the lower eyelids to the nasolabial folds. With age, the midface deflates, flattens, and falls, making the face appear older.
The midface can be lifted surgically to restore a more youthful facial appearance. Fat injection and/or malar implants (see below) may also be used during a midface lift to maximize contour, projection, and volume augmentation.
Pictured below, a patient before and after midface lift.
Benefits of a Midface Lift
Round facial contours and midface/cheek projection is the mark of youth and beauty. A midface lift can beautifully restore the youthful contour and three-dimensional projection to the midface area that so many patients desire. Fat injection and/or malar implants (see below) may also be used during a midface lift to maximize contour, projection, and volume augmentation.
Midface Lift Procedure
There are several techniques for midface lifting, including trans-eyelid (transconjunctival – inside the lower eyelid), endoscopic through the temples behind the hairline, and throughinside the mouth. Which technique is best for you is based on a variety of factors including your current facial structure, previous facial surgeries (if applicable), and your aesthetic goals.
Cheek (malar) augmentation, using implants, can help restore the fullness of the midface area. Cheek implants are made out of permanent solid materials in various shapes and sizes, depending on the area to be augmented. These implants are inserted through hidden incisions, including inside the mouth, inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival), and behind the hairline along the temple. After healing, the implant generally feels as if it is part of your own cheekbone.
Who Should Perform Midface Surgery?
When choosing a surgeon to perform midface surgery, look for a cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgeon who limits his practice to facial procedures. Your surgeon’s membership in the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) and American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) indicates he or she is not only a board certified ophthalmologist who knows the anatomy and structure of the eyelids and orbit and surrounding structures, but also has had extensive training in ophthalmic and facial plastic reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.
Contact Dr. Taban
Dr. Mehryar (Ray) Taban is a board certified ocular plastic surgeon with a keen knowledge in the field of Ophthalmology and facial plastic surgery. To better understand what treatment options may be appropriate for you, contact Dr. Taban today to schedule your initial consult at his Beverly Hills or Santa Barbara office.
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