What is the difference between a SOOF lift and mid-face lift?

Question

I had a midface lift (MFL) regretably in 2020 which has left me with lower lid retraction and change in the way the cheeks come up to eyes when i smile. Also a deep horizontal platform is created at the crows feet of my eyes which is new. I have been suggested a soof lift with canthopexy but my recovery from MFL was extensive and horrible hence would like to know difference please.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

I am an expert in repairing post surgical lower eyelid retraction. If you have lower eyelid retraction after midface surgery, it is highly improbable that a SOOF lift with canthoplasty will repair your issue. The procedures lack the power to control the lower eyelid and address the midface issues. I am attaching a video that shows how I approach these. I utilize a hand-carved ePTFE rim implant that is used to support an elevated cheek soft tissue. I lift the entire cheek, not just the SOOF. This permanently recruit skin and soft tissue into the eyelid. A canthoplasty simply does not how the power to repair the shape of the lower eyelid. I use hard palate graft to shape the lower eyelid to restore the almond shape of the eye. This allows the canthus to be reconstructed under no tension. Don't double down on more bad surgery! You can be fixed and your eyes can be your best feature.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

Really the differences between the two are minimal. The approach is very similar so if you had problems with one, I would not recommend the other. Your best approach would be a deep plane lift. But not all deep plane lifts are performed the same. Make sure there is complete elevation almost down to the nasolabial folds. Best of luck.

What is the difference between a SOOF lift and mid-face lift?

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What is the difference between a SOOF lift and mid-face lift?

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.