Is TMJ a Contraindication for SMAS Facelift?

A facelift lifts and tightens the underlying SMAS plus lifts, tightens and removes excess skin. It should not affect the functioning of the jaw or any other bones or joints. It should have no affect whatsoever on your TMJ. I hope this helps.

TMJ and SMAS lift
The SMAS lift repositions the underlying fat and to some degree the fine muscles beneath it to a more youthful position but does not result in tighter facial muscles. A  SMAS facelift should not  cause additional complications  your TMJ problems when properly done.  I would consult with your  TMJ specialist to be sure.

It sounds like you have a few issues.  I am happy that you have reasonable control of your TMJ symptoms.  The facelift should not effect that.  I would wait a little while before resuming aggresssive PT for your TMJ.  The contour irregularity can also be evaluated by your surgeon and see what he/she may suggest. 

Facelift surgery involves the tissues more superficial than the jaw joint so your TMJ disorder isn't a contra-indication to surgery. Facelift surgery wouldn't be expected to improve the cheek indentation you mentioned, though you may want to discuss filler options for this area such as fat grafting or injectible filler.

As long as your TMJ is stable, you should probably be okay.  However, the TMJ may worsen after the facelift because of the pulling of the skin.

Your TMJ is not a contra-indication to facelift surgery with a SMAS technique.  The joint function, alignment or motion should not be altered by the procedure.

Best of luck!

Hi 6041,

Having a facelift should be just fine in your case.  The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is not affected in the least by a facelift.  The only potential problem could be that if you have a general anesthetic, you may have an exacerbation of your joint discomfort due to the intubation.  However, this is EXTREMELY rare and I doubt it would be an issue for you.

Good luck!

A deep plane (SMAS) facelift is executed nowhere near the TM joint.  I can't see any reason why it would be a contraindication to a facelift.  I would be curious why your oral surgeon thinks otherwise.

Face lifting is frequently performed in individuals with TMJ dysfunction. There should be no long-term change in your symptoms, although in the early recovery period you may notice a change due to swelling and the inability to do your exercises.

The contour irregularity that you note from a prior zygomatic fracture can be improved with  a graft made of SMAS or dermal fat harvested from skin excised during the procedure. I have utilized this technique for several of my patients with similar contour irregularities with excellent results.

I would recommend consulting with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to discuss your treatment options.

Best regards, Andrew Lyos, MD, FACS

TMJ is not a contraindication for a facelift.  Facelifting lifts the surrounding tissues, but does not lift or effect the muscles that can put pressure on the TM joint.