Some doctors say that midface lift and temporal/brow lifts only actually last a short period of time. Is this true?

Question

Length of time a surgical forehead lift and midface lift generally last?

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

These procedures can lead to suboptimal results if the retaining ligaments of the brow are not fully released.  The issue is that the release requires dissection near the temporal branch of the facial nerve and this can lead to weakness of the brow elevators.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. The devil is in the details on this question. In general, lifts can be categorized based on whether skin is being removed or not. (In a thread lift, for example, no skin is being removed). There are varieties of brow lifts and midface lifts that do not involve any skin removal. They may still be good procedures for the right person, but my belief is that if the wrong technique is chosen for the problem at hand, the results may be more likely to be disappointing or short-lived when no skin removal is involved.

Best,
Dr. Tower

Best,
Dr. Tower

Hayati Akbas, MD · Answer

Some doctors suggest that midface lifts and temporal/brow lifts may only provide short-term results, but this largely depends on individual factors and post-surgical care. In my experience, these procedures can last for a significant period when combined with proper aftercare, such as non-surgical treatments and PRP plasma injections, which help maintain and prolong the results.
For most of my patients, if they are good candidates, I recommend the Deep Plane facelift. This technique tends to provide more natural and longer-lasting results compared to traditional methods.

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

The results and how long the surgery lasts depends on the person's facial anatomy and how quickly a person ages. The younger the patient, the longer a surgery lasts. This is due to the aging curve we are all on. In general, a mid face and brow lift lasts 7 to 10 years.

Michelle Lee, MD · Answer

Hi Natti! Thanks for the question. I wouldn't say that midface and/or brow lifts are short-lasting results. However, it depends on the patient and the technique used. Everyone's tissues are different, so one person's tissue may hold a lift longer than another's would. Typically, thin skin lacking elasticity (usually seen in older patients) might not hold a lift as long as young, thick skin would. Additionally, surgical techniques vary, but usually a "deep plane" approach allows for a longer-lasting result. On the other hand, lifts that are held only on the skin layer do not last long nor do they look natural. I hope this helps!

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It all depends of preoperative situation like skin and deep tissues laxity. When brow lift is properly fixed and secured in a position (like with endotine plates) one can expect long lasting result of 10-15 years. It also depends of the age when lift is performed. Hope this helps.

Selcuk Yazan, MD · Answer

Hello,
Questions often arise about the long-term effectiveness of certain procedures, particularly with facial rejuvenation surgeries like midface lifts and temporal/brow lifts. A common misconception is that these procedures yield only short-lived results, a belief often rooted in misunderstandings about surgical techniques, patient expectations, and the nature of aging itself.
Firstly, an ethical surgeon never critiques the work of another or casts doubts on the results of a procedure they didn’t perform. When surgeons operate with integrity, their focus is on educating their patients rather than disparaging their colleagues. This principle underscores a deeper truth: the longevity of any surgical outcome is highly technique-dependent. A skilled surgeon understands how to adapt their methods to suit individual facial anatomy, ensuring results that can withstand the natural processes of aging for as long as possible.
The commitment of a good surgeon is to provide transparency, setting realistic expectations, and empowering patients to make informed decisions. This collaborative approach builds trust and ensures patients understand the nuances involved. So rather than focusing on generalized claims about temporary results, it’s more constructive for patients to select an experienced surgeon who personalizes each aspect of the procedure.
While technique is crucial, patient-specific factors&mdash;such as genetics and skin quality&mdash;also play a significant role. A person with naturally good skin elasticity and minimal laxity is likely to see more durable results than someone with a heavier facial structure or significant skin looseness.
An essential consideration here is that support in facial aesthetics operates from the top down. For example, a midface lift alone may not hold up effectively if there’s significant weight from the lower face and neck area pulling downward. In such cases, a comprehensive approach involving upper, mid and lower face/neck procedures might be more effective in delivering balanced, lasting results.
Aesthetic surgery is not a one-time event; it’s the beginning of a new stage in facial aging, setting a “reset” point from which the natural aging process will resume. The choices patients make after surgery&mdash;how they care for their skin, their general health, and their lifestyle habits&mdash;significantly impact how long they’ll enjoy the results.
Think of it this way: after a facelift, treating yourself as delicately as you would a newborn baby can be transformative. Just as you wouldn’t expose a baby to smoking, alcohol, or excessive sun, adopting a protective approach to your skin will prolong the outcome. This means minimizing sun-damage, avoiding harmful substances, staying hydrated, and following a balanced diet. Patients who recognize this as a lifestyle shift often find that their results hold up longer, as they’re actively supporting the integrity of the surgery.
While surgery can dramatically enhance a person’s appearance, it doesn’t stop time. Consider two twins with identical lifestyles, one of whom opts for surgery. Although both will continue to age, the twin who has undergone surgery will likely age “better” than their sibling in terms of aesthetics. The surgical twin’s face might maintain a more youthful contour and position, but both will continue to experience the ongoing changes of aging.
Surgery, then, is best viewed as an enhancement rather than a permanent “freeze.” Patients who set realistic expectations&mdash;acknowledging that they won’t look identical to their immediate post-operative appearance forever&mdash;tend to be more satisfied with their outcomes over time.
Surgery is most successful for candidates who approach it with a clear understanding of what it can&mdash;and cannot&mdash;achieve. Ideal patients are those who see surgery as an investment and who appreciate that real results develop over time, typically becoming most visible around 3-4 months post-op. From the immediate post-operative period to several months later, change is natural and inevitable, as the face heals and settles into its new contours.
Understanding this gradual evolution is key. Surgery is not a cure-all; it’s a tool to help patients look and feel their best for longer. For those who choose surgery with responsible expectations and a commitment to maintaining their results, the outcome can be truly rewarding.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No lift is permanent since you age and your muscles still pull on your face. The forehead lift lasts the shortest in most people, from 2-5 years. I have seen some that were back to the original look even in less than one year. Mini facelifts typically last 3-7 years and full face lifts last up to 5-8 years. There are some permanent changes, however, with any lift. Now we have some excellent radiofrequency and J plasma treatments that are often as good as mini lifts in many people with very short down time and tiny scars.

Emine Demir, MD · Answer

it is lasts for 7-10 years we prefer to fo th deep plane lift surgeries ,sometimes it is depends on your face on your muscle if you followed the rules it is will lasts for7-10 years

Ivo Gwanmesia, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Good day!

When the above procedures are properly executed, they really should last at least a good 10 years. The brow lift should be supported with a device such as endotine, and when paced and secured properly, it does provide very good results

Some doctors say that midface lift and temporal/brow lifts only actually last a short period of time. Is this true?

Answers (12)

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