I am considering a facelift but am terrified of the windswept look near the ears. How do I avoid it?

A windswept look is typically the result of too much tension placed on the skin and/or SMAS layer with the added issue of an incorrect vector or angle of lift.  The windswept look can easily be avoided by using a proper "deep plane" technique and designing incisions that are well hidden and do not place tension across the incision when the incision is closed. The attached link and website provide more information.I hope this helps.

Scarring and associated complications related to technique can usually be avoided in a lower facelift. To keep it basic, the more tension that is placed on the skin closure around the ears (front, or back, or earlobe), the more likely there is to be scarring, pulling, distortion etc. This is unfortunately a common mistake that many plastic surgeons make. In a lower facelift and necklift, the majority of the "true work" should be on tightening the underlying muscles (SMAS layer and Platysma). The muscles can be tightened with significant tension to provide a lasting (and natural) appearance. The skin, on the other hand, needs to have much less pull and stress placed on it in the areas of closure (ie the incision lines). The less strain on the incisions, the better.When choosing a surgeon it probably would be a good idea to just ask him/her as to what their philosophy is regarding how they pull both the skin and muscle in their lift. Hope this helps! Best, Doc L.

Every face has its unique aging pattern.  It's important that the surgeon you choose takes the time to discuss and understand how your face has aged over the years and to design a treatment plan to follow that path. This may mean a combination of volume replacement (fat transfer), laser skin resurfacing, and some type of surgical facelift. Find out details of how the procedure will be done and customized to your facial structure. There are a wide variety of facelift types and each surgeon has an approach that is consistent with the results they achieve for their patients. Most quality face lifts focus on tightening the SMAS.  There should be very little tension on the skin edges.  Ask to see pictures that chronicle recovery as well as results beyond 3 months.  

Your fear is the most common, and it is the most justified aesthetic fear. This is because we all see people in our daily lives who have had bad facelift surgery, categorized by certain hallmarks, one of which is the face being pulled too tight, causing a "wind tunnel" look.  Other hallmarks are "Satyr ears" (when the earlobe's natural anatomy is obliterated, causing the earlobe to look as if it has melted into the face), incisions that can be seen in front of the ear (rather than sewn right along the edge of the tragus of the ear), and on and on. You have already done some excellent research, meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon, checking reviews, and looking at before and after photos. Make sure your surgeon has had decades of experience with facelifting, because there are techniques we develop after years of practice that can make the difference between a good result and a great result. (For example, I practice a specific suturing method near the ear to preserve its natural anatomy.) Study his or her education. Is your surgeon affiliated with upstanding hospitals?  You sound like you're an excellent patient, as you are an educated patient. I wish you the best. 

Thank you for your question.  This is a very common concern for folks like you that are interested in a youthful yet natural look.  First, it's important that your surgeon shares this type of aesthetic.  You can check their photos( more of which should be provided during your consultation) and have a conversation about your concerns.  There are many different facelift techniques when done properly that can avoid this type of look.  It's also important to see either a plastic surgeon that specializes in facial work or facial plastic surgeon for best results.  Best wishes.

You're already to a good start.  Be sure to discuss your goals and concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon and consider the pros and the cons. Take a look at before / after pictures with the surgeon / staff.

Thank you for your question.  The best advice that I can give you is to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes and is well-experienced in facelift procedures.  At the time of your consultation, your concerns, fears, and cosmetic goals can be thoroughly (and best) addressed and it would give you a great opportunity to discuss surgical technique based upon your goals and pre-operative anatomy. Every patient should be evaluated individually and surgical technique is often adapted to achieve the best result.  Generally speaking, we (as a field) have moved away from that artificial 'wind tunnel' look and to a more natural and vertical lift but it is important to spend time with your plastic surgeon in advance of your procedure to review your goals and the surgical plan necessary to achieve them.  Looking at before and after photos are always helpful, but it is important to keep in mind that you will never find your exact face in the photo galleries.  I hope you find this helpful and I wish you all of the best!

Make sure to look at LOTS of before and after pictures during your consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.  You will get a good sense of their work and decide if that is a result you would be happy with.  The new concept in facelifts is a lift and fill approach rather than simply a pulling effect on the skin which is what you are trying to avoid.

estuht.   Sounds like you are doing your homework well!  Talk to your surgeon and ask about technique and voice your concerns.  The tight lateral pull "wind tunnel" look is unnatural and avoidable.  One of the reasons I prefer the MACS facelift technique is because the pull is upward, repositioning structures that have dropped in a natural, anatomic fashion. Most importantly, be certain that you feel comfortable with your plastic surgeon and he or she spends time with you and answers all you questions.  Also, experience trumps flash, look at the big picture. Best of luck!

Hello and thank you for your question.  This unnatural look is usually made by pulling the skin and SMAS layer too tight.  If good technique is used for a facelift,
this can be done with minimal scarring and can result in a natural look, not
over-done look, with rejuvenation of your face.  Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  It is very
important that you thoroughly research your surgeon before committing to
surgery. It is a good idea to research your surgeon's educational background,
online reviews, before & after pictures, and speak with anyone who you may
know who has had surgery with that surgeon. During your consultation, make sure
that you don't feel rushed and make sure that you have adequate time with your
surgeon and not just their patient coordinator or nurses. If the majority of
your consultation is spent with someone other than the surgeon, this is usually
not a good sign. The most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are
comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified
board-certified expert surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon