Facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging on the face and neck. As individuals age, the skin and muscles of the face region begin to lose tone. The facelift cannot stop the process of aging. It can improve the most visible signs of aging by tightening deeper structures, re-draping the skin of face and neck, and removing selected areas of fat. A facelift can be performed alone, or in conjunction with other procedures, such as a browlift, liposuction, eyelid surgery, or nasal surgery.
Facelift surgery is individualized for each patient. The best candidates for facelift surgery have a face and neck line beginning to sag, but whose skin has elasticity and whose bone structure is well defined.
Short-scar Facelift
Dr. Massiha innovated today’s modern short scar facelift and has been regularly performing this surgery since the early nineties. Short-scar facelift is a very effective technique that offers the result of a full facelift but with incisions extensive incisions that are typical in a traditional facelift. The surgery consistently provides aesthetically pleasing natural results with minimal scarring. Other names for modifications of this surgery include s-lift, mini-lift, baby boomer facelift, lunchtime facelift or limited-incision facelift. The operation involves tightening of the underlying muscles and tissue of the face and removing the extra skin. In this procedure the skin is separated from the underlying SMAS, thus allowing modifications for every patient according to their skin quality and overall facial laxity. When compared to a traditional facelift, the short-scar facelift involves lesser bruising and swelling which means you can get back to your normal activity more quickly. The short-scar facelift is suitable for patients of all ages. The procedure provides very natural looking results which is important to most women and men. For the younger facelift patient this is very effective in maintaining that natural youthful appearance. However, it is effective for the older patients with advanced signs of aging such as hanging sagging neck and jowls. Additionally, the incisions can be extended as needed in surgery to address specific patient needs. The procedure itself takes approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours and is performed under general or MAC anesthesia. Patients report mild discomfort that is treated with either acetaminophen with or without codeine. Patient should expect a very limited period of downtime which is typically anywhere between 10 days to two weeks. However, bruising and swelling does vary by patient. Cosmetics can be used to disguise bruising and incision line. Like all surgeries, both traditional and short scar facelift, have risks. These risks should be considered carefully and discussed with your doctor prior to surgery.
Advantages of the Short Scar Facelift • Less downtime • Minimal scarring and minimal tissue trauma • Natural results that last anywhere from 8 to 10 years
Disadvantages • This surgery should be performed only by well trained, competent board certified plastic surgeons as it takes some finesse. • It also poses the same complications as a traditional facelift which including hematoma, infection, skin necrosis and delayed/poor wound healing (especially with smokers and diabetics) might occur
Dr. Massiha teaches Short Scar Facelift courses internationally and also at both the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons meeting and American Society of Plastic Surgeons. In October 2004, Dr. Robert Rey, from DR 90210 on E-TV came to New Orleans to record an epiosode that featured Dr. Massiha’s innovative techique. This episode can be downloaded on Utube and E-TVs website.
