Would a mini face lift or an smas lift work better for me to suspend the muscle back up?

Question

Hi doctors, I'm 33, and recently undergone a cheekbone and jawline reduction. Although my face is now more narrow , it has cause my soft tissue and muscle to shift forward. When I lift the skin upwards from my temples, it not only looks better but the soft tissue draped over the new structure much better. Would a mini face lift or an smas lift work better for me to suspend the muscle back up? Thank you

Mario S. Yco, MD, FACS · Answer

It is difficult to answer your question with the single photograph you have provided. Please resubmit this question with frontal, side profile and three-quarter views with your hair pulled back so your jaw line can be assessed. Your photo, however, appears youthful and I would allow one year for your facial tissues to settle. I would not recommend surgery based on your photo. Having said that, all facelifts must include a SMAS procedure to be successful.

Thomas P. Sterry, MD · Answer

Based on your history and the single (smiling) photo you sent, I cannot see the value in a facelift for you.  While it is a terrific tool in the right circumstances, I don't think you will benefit from one.  By the way, in 2016, EVERY facelift should be performed using SMAS manipulation of some kind.  I prefer the lamellar SMAS elevation, but that is what I've found works in my hands.Finally, I should point out that at 33 years old a facelift of any kind would be at best "unusual" and seems aggressive.

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

I agree with the input before.  How long ago was your surgery? it can take up to a year or so for swelling to settle and for you to fully heal, specially considering you had cheekbone and jawline surgery.  A lot of the musculature involved in smiling, talking, blinking etc have some attachment to the areas you had surgery on and, therefore, things may take time to completely settle.  Before you make any decisions - give it some time.  Also, it is tough to assess from the picture sent what could (or even should) be done.

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Hi staying positive,I'm sorry you are having issues. Based on the description alone and without further photos, providing you with some meaningful answers is difficult. Would you be willing to send some other photos?Thanks!

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear staypositive11Thank you for your question and photo!  It is difficult to tell from your photo- what would be best. An important note - your recent surgery can take up to a year and a half to fully heal and settle. With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

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Would a mini face lift or an smas lift work better for me to suspend the muscle back up?

Answers (7)

Answer: Facelift after facial surgery

Answer: Facelift after facial surgery

Answer: Facelifting #woundhealing #cosmeticsurgery #beauty

Answer: Facelifting #woundhealing #cosmeticsurgery #beauty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

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