Is a Facelift the best solution for festoons? (Photo)

Question

My festoons are still visible, (and more so on one side, after my Deep plane facelift) is there a permanent solution for these? Thank you!!!

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Festoons will not improve with a deep plane facelift.  This indication typically requires an extended lower lid (SOOF lift) blepharoplasty.  This is known as the malar area, which is a fusion between eyelid and cheek areas susceptible to fatigue/ salt intake/ allergic inflammation.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

I’m sorry to read that the outcome of your facelift did not meet your expectations. Some non-surgical treatments like semi-permanent fillers (to create a smoother transition), laser treatments or radiofrequency devices (to tighten the skin and stimulate collagen production, improving the overall texture and elasticity) can reduce the appearance of festoons. A revision could also be considered.

Of course, an « in person » consultation is necessary.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Of course, an « in person » consultation is necessary.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Brian M. Harmych, MD, FACS · Answer

You can expect swelling in the "festoon" area to last anywhere from 3-6 months after deep plane facelift surgery. It appears you may be within this time frame. How long after deep plane facelift were these photos taken? This 3-6 months time frame may be longer in some cases. I have noted increased edema / swelling in this area in patients who have had extensive filler (and malpositioned filler) in the cheek, lower eyelid, and tear trough area following deep plane facelift surgery.

Lawrence Kass, MD · Answer

No.  A facelift does not help to improve festoons and may in fact make them appear worse.  As may cosmetic surgery on the lower eyelids.  There's no universal consensus on what causes festoons and there is no universal consensus on treatment.  Many doctors may say (falsely) that there is no treatment and worse than this, many doctors suggest treatments which are ineffective or may worsen the appearance of festoons.  In my opinion, it takes a very, very experienced oculofacial plastic surgeon to treat this problem.  Perhaps, you may find the link to my page on festoons on my website with additional information to be of help.
Good luck!

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographed.

A facelift will not correct Festoons.  Atypical blepharoplasty will actually make them look worse.

In some cases a dermal filler injection into the depression underneath the festooned can be helpful.

However the only way to remove Festoons is direct excision or removal surgically.  Unfortunately this will leave a scar and a very visible area.

Is a Facelift the best solution for festoons? (Photo)

Answers (5)