The key to the midface isn't a lift...volume is the key.

Edward D. Buckingham, MD answers: Best kind of facelift for mid-face area?

What is the best kind of Facelift for the mid-face area? I'm thinking about getting a Mini Facelift. I'm 54, but I happily don't really look my age (good genes, never smoked, etc.). My forehead is very smooth, no lines to speak of, but my middle face (eyes to chin) does look a bit tired. I'm thinking that a Midfacelift, plus a dermal filler for lines on the corners of my mouth, would be enough. But what kind of mid-face lift is the best? Thanks for any advice you can offer.


Edward D. Buckingham, MD
7 months ago

Obviously without seeing you face I can not begin to tell you what you need, but if the lower eyelid and cheek region is to be rejuvenated I believe the solution is volume and not a lift.  I have done deep-plane facelifts, subperiosteal endoscopic midface lifts etc.  None of them hold up and none provides the kind of improvement that volume does.  I usually use autologous fat to rejuvenate the midface because of the natural appearance, versatility and longevity.  (Don't let anyone tell you that fat transfer doesn't last, in the midface area it is exceedingly reliable, ie. 10 year or more results)  However, you can achieve some improvement, although I would argue not as much, with either hyaluronic acid fillers or Radiesse.  These are temporary however.  

If you are unhappy with your jawline then a lower facelift would be in order.  This can range from minimally invasive all the way up to an extended sub-SMAS lift depending on what you need.  

Don't even consider a lift until you have explored the option of fat grafting! 

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