With age, the face takes on an increasingly “marked” appearance: the skin becomes dehydrated, thinner, loses its suppleness and elasticity; muscles relax, facial contours lose their definition and folds form, particularly between the nose and mouth. This process is accelerated by factors like prolonged sun exposure, smoking, or improper use of makeup products.
Aesthetic surgery techniques offer solutions.
The facelift is certainly the most iconic procedure in cosmetic surgery. This term encompasses a wide variety of interventions allowing multiple corrections while delivering natural results. Facial features and expressions are preserved. Among current techniques, the mini-facelift (named for its minimal scarring, not minimal results!) provides rejuvenation of the lower face. It’s currently the most commonly used procedure for treating sagging tissues: deep folds, wrinkles and fine lines can be significantly improved with a facelift.
How is the procedure performed?
This technique requires a single incision starting in front of the ear and ending behind it (in the retroauricular sulcus). Subcutaneous tissues are tightened and excess skin removed. The procedure lasts about two hours under local anesthesia. The head must be protected with a bandage for 24 hours to prevent fluid accumulation. Patients go home the same day. Any swelling typically resolves within a week, but normal activities can resume the day after surgery. Of course, a facelift cannot stop the skin aging process, which is why it’s sometimes combined with a peel (CO2 laser resurfacing or other). Results are considered long-lasting: typically 6 to 10 years, provided good lifestyle habits are maintained.
Which areas can be treated?
The above treatment focuses on the lower face, primarily restructuring the facial oval.
What are the indications for this “mini-facelift”?
Mainly age-related facial sagging, with relaxation of muscles and skin.
When can one return to work?
Quickly – within a day or two after the procedure – though bruising may be visible, there may be some swelling (edema), and sutures in front of the ear will be removed after one week, while those behind the ear after two weeks.
What sun precautions should be taken?
As with any procedure, scars should not be exposed to sun for several months afterward.
What results can be expected?
The effects of a facelift are considered long-lasting: typically 6 to 10 years, provided good lifestyle habits are maintained.
Are there any contraindications?
As with any procedure, a complete medical history must be taken, considering each patient’s medical background, medications, etc.
PHOTOS
While many websites show treatment results, displaying them is now prohibited by the Belgian Medical Association and law. This is why we don’t show them here. However, it’s perfectly reasonable for you to receive personalized information about your specific concerns. During your consultation, many photos will be shown so you can evaluate and appreciate the results.
Would you like explanations and details about your personal situation? Come meet us for a consultation.
