S lifting unsuccessful operations. Circular facelift (facelift)

Innovative technologies of the present time make it possible to carry out plastic correction on the superficial muscular aponeurotic layer (SMAS). You can remove age-related skin defects in one go and for many years with the help of MACS lifting. The essence of spacelifting is to return and fix the tissues in their original place.

What is MACS lifting and what is the essence of the method?

Technical capabilities not only provide a better effect, but also restore lost volumes and allow you to preserve natural facial features. However, even such plastic surgery is traumatic with a long rehabilitation period and a high risk of postoperative complications. Therefore, Colombian doctors have developed a completely new MACS lifting technique, which gives brilliant results with minimal surgical intervention.

MACS lifting is a facelift method that includes gentle correction of the neck, contour of the lower part of the face, including the chin and the area of ​​nasolabial folds.

The abbreviation MACS stands for (minimal access cranial suspension lift), which translates as “facelift through minimal access.” This method is also called short-scar face lifting (S-lifting, MACS-lift).

The method appeared in the 90s of the last century in Colombia, and it was completely developed by American doctors. Plastic surgeons were looking for a method that does not cause large-scale postoperative complications that are observed after a classic facelift.

They needed a minimally invasive method of correction with a low level of injury. The new MACS lifting method was the result of a search. As part of MACS lifting, scientists have developed technical methods of V- and J-lift (the initial letters indicate the location of the incisions) to perform a facelift.

This method is something between a classic facelift and SMAS lifting. MACS lifting is indicated for middle-aged women with moderate age-related changes in the skin of the face and neck. It involves removing excess skin, tightening its deep structures with vertical tension of the skin, which is the main difference between this technique and others.

Types of MACS lifting and their features

The MACS lifting method has several execution techniques:

• S-lifting;
• J-lifting;
• V-lifting.

The initials of the letters indicate the shape of the cuts made.

S-lifting involves the correction of age-related changes in the middle and lower part of the face using an S-shaped incision in front of the ear, which almost never extends into the postauricular fold. This type also has two ways of execution:

• classical;
• MACS lifting directly.

Classic S-lifting involves plication (suturing) of the SMAS flap using two purse-string sutures and additional removal of the SMAS flap. If the nasolabial fold is too deep, hemming is done in a direction perpendicular to it. This method corrects the middle area of ​​the face well.

MACS-lifting also involves the application of two purse-string sutures, but unlike the classical method, it provides vector lifting and precise fixation of the threads during plication of the SMAS flap. The method successfully corrects the oval of the face, corners of the mouth, nasolabial folds and the middle part of the face. The difference between the two methods lies in the direction of the lifting vector (more vertical) and the area of ​​fixation of the threads for lifting the midface, which are used to suture the SMAS flap. In this case, the place where the thread is fixed is located higher and further from the auricle.

J-lifting performs minimal correction of the lower part of the face, its oval and neck contour. A J-shaped incision is made around the earlobe. This type of MACS lifting is well combined and complemented by liposuction of the neck (double chin) and platysmoplasty.

V-lifting aimed at correcting the lower and middle zones of the face and neck. A V-shaped incision is also made around the auricle. If a small amount of skin is excised, it can be completely placed in the postauricular fold. If it is necessary to excise large excess skin, the incision is continued along the edge of the hairline. The lift vector is used vertically, which allows you to correct the clear oval of the face and emphasize the cheekbone area, which is an important factor in rejuvenation. This method is also called the mixed method, as it can correct several areas of the face at once.

Carrying out the operation

Preparation for surgery includes several stages:

• surgeon consultation;
• general clinical examination for contraindications, which also includes consultation with related specialists;
• laboratory research.

If the patient decides to get rid of excess weight, then this must be done before surgery so that the surgeon can remove the skin remaining after weight loss during the lift.

The surgical intervention is carried out within 2-4 hours, under local anesthesia, depending on the scale of the operation. The stages of a MACS lift include the following:

• the surgeon makes an incision depending on the chosen technique;
• after a slight detachment of the skin, two purse-string sutures are applied to the SMAS layer;
• then the required amount of skin is removed;
• vertical sutures are placed on the muscle frame;
• applying cosmetic finishing sutures to the incision site.

The S-lifting and MACS-lifting methods are carried out only on relatively young skin, and are recommended for patients with minor signs of skin aging, but with a preserved facial contour. For more pronounced age-related changes in the skin of the face and neck (with significant deformation of the oval of the face, deep nasolabial folds, sagging skin), a classic SMAS lifting with correction of the SMAS layer is more suitable.

The postoperative effect will be noticeable after 3-6 months, although the first improvements will become visible 2-3 weeks after swelling, bruising and microhematomas have completely disappeared.

Rehabilitation period

The first day after surgery, the patient remains in the hospital under the supervision of a doctor. In the following days, the patient develops swelling, bruising and microhematomas. To avoid them, it is recommended to apply compresses in the first hours after surgery.

In case of significant pain, analgesics are prescribed. Usually the recovery period lasts two weeks. This is how long it takes for facial swelling to go away. The sutures are removed at 10-12 days. In order to make the rehabilitation period as comfortable as possible, it is necessary to follow some rules and restrictions:

• do not take hot baths;
• do not visit saunas, baths;
• do not visit solariums and swimming pools;
• sleep on a high pillow;
• do not use decorative cosmetics and care products;
• carefully clean your face with special disinfectants;
• Avoid direct sunlight, especially avoid getting it on the seams;
• avoid active physical exercise.

Possible complications

MACS lifting is a gentle technique, due to which complications after surgical intervention are minimal. But despite this, there are still some risks of complications. Most often they are associated with low professional training of the surgeon. Therefore, after MACS rejuvenation the following may be observed:

• suture infection;
• formation of hematomas and seromas;
• blood clot formation:
• severe swelling;
• skin necrosis (more often in smokers);
• damage to the facial nerves.

What is the significant difference between the MACS lift and other lifts?

1. Micro-incisions during MACS lifting are carried out within the auricle, without moving to the temple area, which eliminates the possibility of displacement of the hair growth line in this area. In a classic facelift, the incisions end behind the ear, which causes various types of injuries.
2. Since the aponeurosis does not peel off during the operation, unlike the SMAS lift, which is performed only in the area of ​​the aponeurosis, the number of injuries is significantly reduced, and most importantly, damage to the facial nerve with subsequent paresis does not occur. The number of hematomas, seromas and edema in the operated area is also reduced.
3. With MACS lifting, vertical tension of the SMAS complex occurs and its fixation to the temporal tissues, which allows you to eliminate wrinkles around the mouth, correct the nasolabial area and jawline without excessive tension on the skin and distortion of natural facial features. It is the vertical tension that is the significant difference between this method.
4. Peeling of the skin layer is carried out for the purpose of tightening it. The size of the peeling area is minimal and also covers a small area of ​​the cheek. A small area of ​​skin detachment reduces the risk of postoperative complications.
5. This method is perfectly combined and complemented by other corrective techniques.

The popularity of MACS lifting is growing every day. This is a very popular procedure, which is characterized by high effectiveness, low complications and a short recovery period.

What is SMAS lifting

The abbreviation SMAS stands for the English phrase Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System, which is translated as the superficial muscular-aponeurotic complex of the face. It is this muscle complex that is an indicator of the condition of the skin. This is where the first signs of age-related skin aging begin to appear.

SMAS lifting is a deep facelift that not only lifts the skin superficially, but also moves and redistributes the underlying layers of soft tissue. This technique allows you to achieve a natural cosmetic effect, which is obtained only by modifying the deep layers of soft tissue, and not just the superficial skin.

Thus, SMAS lifting is a more innovative technique, which differs significantly from the classic facelift. In a traditional facelift, only the superficial skin is peeled, moved, and tightened without affecting the soft tissue underneath. With a classic lift, the seams are subject to greater stress, which leads to their stretching and deformation. In addition, there is no redistribution of the superficial skin itself, which means that the effect of this operation will not last long.

SMAS lifting is fundamentally different from other rejuvenation techniques. Using this technique, you can correct the previous facial contour without the effect of skin tension. After all, SMAS rejuvenation does not just remove age-related defects, while unnaturally tightening the skin, but restores its former attractiveness by returning lost facial features.

With this technique, intradermal sutures do not cause tension on the skin, which allows them to be made thin and invisible. SMAS lifting also restores lost volume in the cheekbone area, which significantly rejuvenates the face. In general, the effect of SMAS lifting is the most lasting, and the face retains a more natural appearance.

Changes in the muscular aponeurotic complex of the face provoke the appearance of the following age-related phenomena:

• ptosis of tissues of the middle and lower part of the face;
• pronounced nasolabial and oral folds (drooping of the corners of the lips);
• bags under the eyes;
• ptosis of the corners of the eyes and drooping eyebrows;
• presence of a double chin;
• shaving in the cheek area;
• gloomy, tired expression on his face.

Benefits of SMAS rejuvenation

The advantages of this technique include:

• return to the natural appearance of the face (without tightening the skin);
• preservation of previous facial features;
• elimination of both fine and deep wrinkles;
• long-term result;
• minimal risk of complications;
• correction of the oval of the face, returning to its previous contours;
• low-invasiveness of the method;
• absence of visible scars and cicatrices;
• compatibility of the method with other cosmetic procedures.

How is SMAS lifting performed?

SMAS rejuvenation surgery has several stages:

1. Surgical incisions are made where they will be completely invisible. Typically, the incisions start at the temple, then go up along the hairline to the ear, around it and ending behind it.
2. The surgical intervention is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts 2-4 hours, depending on its scale.
3. Direct tightening and removal of the skin with aponeurosis (tendon plate made of dense collagen and elastic fibers) occurs.
4. Significant fat complications, such as a double chin, are eliminated using liposuction.
5. The skin flaps are stretched and fixed to the fascia of the temporal bones using several sutures, without tension.
6. Excess tissue is removed.
7. Then the skin is fixed in its original place, also using sutures and without tension, and its excess is removed.
8. After tightening the deep muscles, the skin is tightened and redistributed.
9. The neck is treated at the same time as the facial skin.
10. In case of elimination of nasolabial folds, large-scale SMAS lifting is used, which also involves lifting the nose and forehead.

Since this rejuvenation makes only changes of an aesthetic nature, without affecting the factors that cause aging of the skin, biorevitalization or fillers based on hyaluronic acid can serve as an addition to this surgical intervention.

SMAS lifting techniques

There are several SMAS correction methods, which are divided into two groups:

• techniques with suturing (plication) of the SMAS complex;
• techniques with detachment (dissection) of the SMAS complex.

In addition to tissue tightening plication of the SMAS complex, the lost volume in the cheekbone area is restored, which returns natural youth to the face. The technical suturing with this method is simpler, which reduces the operation time and involves a short rehabilitation period.

The technique itself is less traumatic, since tissue is peeled off only in the subcutaneous layer. The absence of tissue detachment reduces the risk of postoperative complications. This method is usually used for the correction of “thin” faces that need modeling and replenishment of lost volumes.

Dissection (detachment) of SMAS flap includes tissue tightening and removal of excess. Usually this is the method that is meant when it comes to SMAS lifting. Removing areas of the superficial muscle-aponeurotic complex is productive on “full” faces, when there is a need to tighten the tissue without giving it excess volume.

Rehabilitation period

The patient is in the hospital for 2-3 days. For several days after surgery, the patient experiences swelling, bruising, and significant pain. Pain syndrome can be safely eliminated with analgesics, and swelling and bruising can be relieved with physiotherapy prescribed by the doctor. On days 3-5, the postoperative bandage is removed, and sutures are removed on days 10-12.

The effect of the operation can be assessed after about 1-2 months, although plastic surgeons claim that the skin will fully recover only after 4-6 months.

In order to make the recovery period as comfortable as possible, you must follow all the doctor’s recommendations:

• in the first hours after surgery, apply cold compresses to the scars;
• in order for swelling to go away faster, you need to sleep on a high pillow (and generally keep your head in an elevated position);
• take antibiotics for a week to avoid infection of the sutures;
• do not take hot baths;
• do not visit saunas and baths;
• do not visit swimming pools and solariums;
• avoid direct sunlight (they should not fall on the seams);
• do not use decorative cosmetics and care products;
• Gently clean your face with special disinfectants.

Possible complications

After SMAS lifting, the following complications are possible:

1. Damage to the facial nerves. This complication is the most difficult, since its consequence is a violation of the nervous regulation of the face. It develops in people who have undergone a facelift more than once. Paresis (partial paralysis) is eliminated with medicinal drugs together with physiotherapeutic procedures - electrophoresis, magnetotherapy, laser therapy. Nervous activity is restored after two weeks.
2. Formation of hematomas and seromas. Hematomas are formed as a result of damage to small lymphatic and blood capillaries. Hematomas and seromas are removed by aspiration or puncture. It is necessary to take medications.
3. Necrosis of tissue along the suture line. It develops when there is excessive tension on the skin flap with simultaneous disruption of tissue nutrition. The complication is eliminated with medications plus physiotherapeutic procedures (UHF, electrophoresis).
4. Partial hair loss along the suture line. Complications occur as a result of damage to the hair follicles or disruption of their nutrition. To restore hair growth, cryomassage, physiotherapy and the use of vitamin complexes are used.
5. Infection and suppuration of wounds. Develops due to the formation of a hematoma or tissue necrosis. Eliminated by antibacterial therapy.
6. Changes in facial contours and features. Sometimes after a facelift, the contours and features of the face change. The reason is hematomas or migration of skin flaps. A strong change in features occurs due to the removal of a large amount of fat complications during liposuction.

Correction of age-related facial defects in a complex gives impressive results and allows you to achieve truly complete rejuvenation in one stage.

Spacelifting – long life without aging

Spacelifting is a plastic surgery method that involves filling spaces with displaced tissues. The essence of spacelifting is to return and fix the tissues in their original place. The term “spacelifting” comes from the English word “space”, which means space.

The author of the technique is Australian doctor Brian Mendelson. Dr. Mendelson determined that the spaces between the facial muscles are filled with fatty tissue. Since the facial muscles are attached to the skin at one end and to the bones of the skull at the other, the appearance of stretched skin, folds and wrinkles is caused by a change in their tension and length. However, the movement of the facial muscles allows not only to actively express emotions, but also to form wrinkles and folds.

So, over time and under the influence of gravity, the muscles attached to the skin begin to stretch, lose elasticity and firmness, which leads to weakening and deformation of elastic and collagen fibers, which in this state contribute to sagging tissue and the formation of wrinkles on the face.

Benefits of spacelifting

Of course, this method cannot but have a number of positive advantages:

• low-invasiveness of the method;
• minor pain;
• safety;
• low level of complications;
• bloodlessness of the method;
• minimal incisions;
• invisible scars and scars;
• short rehabilitation period;
• preservation of natural facial features;
• lasting aesthetic result (10 -15 years);
• no serious damage to the facial nerves;
• performing spacelifting in areas with an underdeveloped network of blood vessels, which eliminates the risk of serious complications;
• no need for skin detachment with aponeurosis, as with SMAS lifting;
• no age restrictions;
• compatibility with other cosmetic and plastic methods.

Spacelifting is not only used in adulthood. Thus, due to hereditary features of the facial structure, even in young people, the oval of the face may lose clarity, or ptosis may appear in the cheek area, or the nasolabial fold may become pronounced.

Areas affected by spacelifting

The best spacelifting is provided by surgical interventions on certain areas of the face:

• cheekbones with the outer part of the eyebrows and eyes;
• cheekbones and lower eyelid;
• cheeks and corners of the mouth;
• nasolabial folds and malar zones (middle face area);
• upper lip, corners of the mouth and lower jaw;
• cervicomental region and corner of the lower jaw.

How is spacelifting performed?

Before surgery, the patient needs to meet with a doctor for an examination, identifying areas of space on the face and contraindications for surgery.

Spacelifting is performed under intravenous anesthesia, without intubation, and lasts no more than 2 hours. The scale of surgical intervention is determined individually, depending on what age-related defects need to be eliminated. Using an endoscope, space zones are determined and fixed in the same or new place. In this case, the surgeon does not affect the aponeurosis. In parallel with spacelifting, the following plastic surgeries are performed:

• blepharoplasty;
• frontlifting;
• platysplasty;
• liposuction.

As well as some injection and cosmetic procedures:

• biorevitalization;
• plasma lifting;
• fillers based on hyaluronic acid;
• peeling;
• skin polishing.

The spacelifting technique requires certain skills and practice, a high level of professional training and a subtle aesthetic taste. After surgery, a special bandage is applied to the face and neck.

This method of surgical plastic surgery does not require a long rehabilitation period. A special bandage, which is applied immediately after the operation, will be removed on the second day. The hospital stay lasts only one day, and some patients leave immediately after surgery. Due to the low-traumatic nature and uniqueness of the method, the patient’s recovery occurs within 3-5 days.

Swelling, bruises and microhematomas are mild, and the sutures are made of material that self-absorbs. The risk of serious complications is practically reduced to zero. Postoperative scars and scars are practically invisible, as they are located in the natural folds of the skin. There is no need to eliminate them or mask them.

To quickly restore facial tissue, you can undergo a course of physiotherapy: magnetic therapy, ultrasound therapy, microcurrent therapy.

Despite the fact that this surgical intervention is considered a low-traumatic and gentle method of surgical correction, the risk of developing minor complications still exists.

Most often, spacelifting is accompanied by the following complications:

• formation of seromas and hematomas;
• infection and suppuration of sutures;
• bleeding;
• development of paresis;
• tissue swelling;
• discomfort in the suture area.

Among many women there is an opinion that plastic surgery is evil and harmful. But this is far from true. It is important who does plastic surgery and how. The main thing in this matter is the experience and skill of the surgeon. Therefore, it is necessary to approach the choice of a clinic and an operating surgeon with all seriousness.

Old traumatic methods are being replaced by innovative techniques that can work miracles and involve minimal risks. Plastic surgery is in constant search and is constantly being improved. Understanding the processes that cause aging contributes to the study of the physiology of human tissues and gives rise to new revolutionary directions in plastic surgery in particular, and in cosmetology in general.

Youth, as you know, is a state of mind. It’s wonderful when everything inside you sings and enjoys life. But if on your face, pardon the pun, all the signs of age are “present” in the form of wrinkles, folds, flaccidity and drooping tissue, it is difficult to maintain youthful enthusiasm and confidence in your attractiveness.

Fortunately, modern aesthetic medicine can offer many ways to give your face a second youth. The most effective methods include facial plastic surgery, namely a circular lift.

Circular facelift or facelift - one of the oldest and most popular surgical rejuvenation techniques. This operation involves removing excess skin and fatty tissue, returning soft tissues to their original position and giving the contours of the face their former clarity.

The natural result of a facelift is a visible rejuvenation of the face by ten years or more.

Indications for a circular lift

It is believed that this operation is intended for women and men (and men, although less often, also resort to facial plastic surgery) over 50 years of age. However, sometimes the age in the passport and the actual condition of a person’s skin do not correlate. Therefore, if the patient has indications and desires to undergo a facelift, the operation is also performed on people under 50 years of age. Such indications may include anatomical features, the condition of adipose tissue, excess skin, etc.

Good reasons for performing a circular facelift are:

• skin creases in the cheek area;
• pronounced expression wrinkles;
• deep wrinkles in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle;
• “swollen” oval of the face, “shaved”;
• ptosis (drooping) of the cheek-zygomatic region;
• loose skin, sagging skin;
• the presence of excess fatty tissue on the face, chin, neck.

Contraindications to this rather radical surgical procedure are blood diseases, cancer, dermatological and infectious diseases, and other severe chronic illnesses in the stage of decompensation.

Types of circular lift

Classic face lift (rhytidectomy) . With this type of facial plastic surgery, the surgeon makes surgical incisions in the area of ​​the scalp of the forehead, in the fold in front of the auricle and behind the ear. The technique involves manipulations to move, redistribute and give the desired position to tissues with subsequent tension of the skin. No work is done with the muscular frame during rhytidectomy, so the method is applicable mainly to patients with moderate age-related skin changes and without excess fatty tissue.

The operation is usually performed within 1-3 hours, under general or combined anesthesia.

The results of a facelift can last up to 5-7 years (if you follow all medical recommendations for facial care).

With a classic circular facelift, soft tissue and skin are plasticized, but the facial muscles are not involved. And after several years, the skin, under the weight of the muscles, is able to return to its previous (relaxed) state. Therefore, recently, surgeons are increasingly resorting to combined techniques that combine the techniques of classic facelift + SMAS lifting or endoscopic facelift and other techniques.

Deep circular lift (SMAS lift) . The technique combines elements of classic facelift and work with the deep layers of the face - muscles and tendons. (SMAS is an abbreviation for Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System, i.e. superficial muscular-aponeurotic system).

Manipulations with the SMAS layer make it possible not only to get rid of wrinkles and folds, but also to strengthen the muscular frame of the face and return it to its original relief.

The operation takes 3 hours (on average) and is performed mainly under general anesthesia.

The effect of a deep circular lift lasts much longer than that of a classic rhytidectomy - 8-10 years or longer.

Circular lift. Photo before surgery

Circular lift. Photo after surgery

Endoscopic facelift. With this type of facial plastic surgery, the surgeon works with the same tissues as with SMAS lifting. Only long incisions here replace miniature (1-2 cm) punctures, through which all manipulations are carried out using the finest endoscopic equipment and a video monitor. The doctor sequentially isolates the muscular aponeurotic layer and then tightens it along with the adjacent skin flaps.

The duration of the operation and the type of anesthesia depend on the scope of the intervention.

The advantages of endoscopic lifting are noticeable rejuvenation, invisible stitches and short rehabilitation. However, the technique is suitable mainly for people 35-45 years old. For older patients with pronounced deep wrinkles, more radical techniques are recommended that allow surgical excision of excess skin.

Combined facelift . When using a combined technique, it affects not only the superficial tissues near the outer edge of the masticatory muscle, but also the deep tissues up to the masticatory muscle.

The use of different techniques (tissue mobilization at the SMAS level, movement of muscle-fibrous structures in different directions, excision of excess skin, neck lift, etc.) allows you to correct deep and superficial tissues, stretching them in different directions.

The duration of the operation depends on the complexity of the chosen techniques and can be 2-6 hours. Anesthesia - general.

Photo before a circular lift

Photo after a circular lift

Methods of facial rejuvenation by zones

Often patients do not decide to undergo a full circular facelift or do not consider such an intervention necessary. “Is it possible to rejuvenate the face by zones?” - one of the most popular questions asked. Yes, modern techniques allow this.

Such manipulations include:

• front lifting (lifting the upper part of the face);
• check-lifting (mid-face lifting);
• S-lifting and max-lifting (lifting the lower face and neck);
• space lifting (lifting the middle and lower part of the face).

Front lifting. This aesthetic technique is used to eliminate the first signs of aging. Typically, patients aged about 40 years old with pronounced transverse wrinkles on the forehead, folds between the eyebrows, drooping eyebrows and lower eyelid resort to it.

During the operation, the surgeon tightens the tissues of the upper part of the face. After wrinkles on the forehead are smoothed out and eyebrows are raised, the patient's face becomes more youthful and open.

Photo after a circular facelift

Check-lifting . Used to combat signs of aging in the midface such as:

• hernias (bags) under the eyes;
• sagging cheeks, “shaved”;
• pronounced nasolabial folds.

The technique helps remove small and medium wrinkles, eliminate sagging skin and swelling of the face. It is advisable to carry out check-lifting in combination with, since the incisions lie along the ciliary edge of the lower eyelid.

During the operation, the muscle tissue is fixed in the required position using special endotin plates (3.5-4.5 mm in size). Resorption of endotins occurs within a year, during which time connective tissue has time to form.

The intervention is performed under general anesthesia and lasts up to 1.5 hours. The result of such a lift lasts 6-7 years.

S-lifting. This operation is also called a short-scar or short-flap lift. S-lifting allows you to lift the lower part of the face, get rid of jowls and double chins, and make the lower contour of the face noticeably clearer.

The operation begins with an incision behind the ears or in front of the ear. Next, the surgeon isolates and tightens the tissues of the SMAS layer, which are attached with hanging sutures to the periosteum of the zygomatic bone.

The advantages of the S-lift: despite its low invasiveness, it is almost as effective as the SMAS lift. Disadvantage: the technique is not suitable for older patients with pronounced wrinkles.

Max-lifting . This is a variant of the S-lift, a facelift through minimal access. This technique is a kind of “compromise” between conventional rhytidectomy and SMAS lift.

During max-lifting, excess skin is excised and the deep structures of the face are tightened. The main advantage of this technique is the ability to perform a full facelift through small skin incisions.

Space lifting (or spatial lifting) . A relatively new type of facelift, a minimally invasive lift of the middle and lower parts of the face (cheekbones, cheeks, nasolabial triangle, lower jaw area, neck).

The movement of tissues during space lifting is carried out strictly along the spaces - the physiological spaces under the facial muscles in the cheek area, the area of ​​the zygomatic bone and the lower jaw. Using endoscopic equipment, the surgeon identifies the spacers, then moves them and secures them in the desired position.

The operation is performed under intravenous anesthesia and lasts on average 2 hours. Space lifting is characterized by a short rehabilitation period (3-7 days).

Photo before a circular facelift

Photo after a circular lift

Rehabilitation after facelift

Sutures are removed approximately 10-14 days later, full recovery may take 3-5 weeks.

During rehabilitation, the patient must follow all the doctor’s instructions - take prescribed medications, not smoke, adhere to a regimen, avoid physical activity, sudden heating or cooling of the body, and prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Cost of facelift surgery

One of the main questions asked in Internet search engines is: “Circular lift. Price". And the Network gives out very different prices: from tens to many hundreds of thousands of rubles. Why such a spread?

The fact is that the cost of a facelift operation consists of a variety of factors: the initial data and aesthetic expectations of the patient, the labor intensity of the surgical intervention, the skill and professional demand of the doctor, the reputation of the clinic, etc. It should be borne in mind that the price of a combined operation is always higher than the price classic circular lift, however, the result of facelift lasts for a longer period.

Prices for a circular lift and other services at the plastic surgery department are presented.

If you decide that it’s time to think about a facelift, we invite you to a consultation with MedicCity. Our highly professional and attentive doctors have extensive experience in performing circumferential lifting and other types of facial plastic surgery. You can look at reviews about facelift and other plastic surgeries.

Short-scar face lift MACS-lift and S-lift

The average cost of the operation is 52,500 rubles.

The MACS-lifting technique (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension Lift) was invented and first used by Colombian plastic surgeon Patrick Tonnarde more than 10 years ago. The S-Lift (Short-Scar Lift) is one of the modifications of the MACS lift, which received this name because of the S-shaped incision.

These facial plastic surgeries are designed to lift the midface and lower third through small incisions in the ear area. The specificity of a short-scar facelift is that it has an inconspicuous small scar, a shortened rehabilitation period, and is highly effective. The size of the incisions is much smaller than with a classic facelift.

MACS-Lift and S-Lifting. Indications

• loss of clear contours of the oval face;
• manifestation of moderately pronounced or deep nasolabial folds;
• drooping corners of the mouth;
• moderate decrease in neck skin turgor;
• deterioration of facial skin turgor, gravitational ptosis of tissue in the cheek area.

MACS-Lift and S-Lifting. Contraindications

• blood clotting disorder;
• collagen vascular diseases;
• exacerbation of inflammatory processes in the body;
• predisposition of skin tissue to the formation of keloid scars;
• smoking as a factor that increases the risk of postoperative complications (must be stopped at least 2 weeks before surgery);
• taking anticoagulants (must also be stopped at least 2 weeks before surgery);
• oncological diseases.

MACS-Lift and S-Lifting. How is the operation performed?

The MAX lifting operation is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon begins the incision from the lower lower edge of the lobe, continues it in front of the ear (behind the tragus) and slightly covers the temporal region along the border of hair growth. Then the doctor performs a gentle, limited detachment of the skin flap. Effective tissue lifting is achieved by placing purse-string suspension sutures on the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). These sutures are securely fixed to a strong structure - the deep temporal fascia. A vertical vector of tissue lifting is provided. In this way, the doctor tightens the deep structures of the cheek area, thereby improving the contour of the oval of the face. The surgeon then tightens and redistributes the skin flap, removes excess and applies a cosmetic suture.

With the S-Lift (Short-Scar Lift), excess skin is removed using an S-shaped incision, which, unlike the MAX-lifting, starts behind the ear and ends in front of the ears, and the lifting method is similar to the MACS-lifting. Of all the existing lifts, S-Lift (along with MACS-Lift) is the most gentle for the patient. More than half of the operations are performed under local anesthesia. The duration of operations is 1.5 - 2 hours.

MACS-Lift and S-Lifting. Rehabilitation

The patient is discharged 1-2 days after surgery. After the operation, you must wear a compression bandage for a week and a half, which provides pressure on the chin and cheek-zygomatic area. On average, major hemorrhages and swelling disappear within 12-14 days. The stitches are removed on days 9-11. The final effect can be observed 6 weeks after surgery.

MACS-Lift and S-Lifting. Photos before and after

Currently, this type of operation is included in the daily practice of most foreign specialists and some surgeons in Russia. You can see the results before and after short-scar lifting in the plastic surgeon’s portfolio on his website. Additionally, you can visit the “Before and After Photos” section on our portal.

MACS-Lift and S-Lifting. Prices

The cost of the operation is in a wide range from 50,000 to 140,000 thousand rubles. The average price for this type of lifting in Moscow is 110,000 rubles.

Where to do short-scar lifting MACS-Lift and S-Lifting?

Choose a certified specialist. To avoid making a mistake with your choice, study the rating of the best plastic surgeons in Russia. In addition, you can seek advice from the forums of Internet sites specializing in aesthetic plastic surgery.

A woman’s dream is to keep her face young and fit, which s-lifting will help with. Cosmetology offers to extend the attractiveness of the face using facelift. The first mention of it was in 1906, when possible surgical intervention to correct age-related changes in the face was discussed.

Since 1976, the concept of “subcutaneous muscular-aponeurotic system” has been introduced, called SMAS. Several years later, a technique for SMAS resection and fixation was developed. Innovative techniques for this method are soon emerging. They have become widespread in plastic surgery.

The method makes it possible to eliminate wrinkles and sagging skin under the influence of soft tissue. As a result, the appearance changes and the aging process is delayed. Customer reviews confirm that the procedure is effective and safe. The cosmetologist eliminates complications during the procedure. A similar effect as after it cannot be achieved even by using an expensive cream.

Features of this method

A short-scar facelift will help to tighten the internal structures of the face. The main characteristic feature of the operation is minor trauma and small scars. Their location should be behind the tragus of the ear. Due to this, the small seam cannot be seen by others. This method does not only tighten the upper layers of the skin. During the s-lifting procedure, the deep structures of the face are affected. The set of measures achieves the overall rejuvenation effect. This eliminates the effect of a stretched mask.

With a minimally invasive intervention, an incision is made in the parotid zone, and it is extended to the temporal zone. Using this method, it becomes possible to achieve lifting and rejuvenation of the lower third of the face. Age-related jowls are getting rid of. After the procedure, the result can last for a long period due to the fixation of soft tissues.

What are the advantages of the s-lifting technique?

Experts highlight many positive aspects of this method. The fundamental limitation of the incision is considered important. This practice provides an opportunity to conceal the fact of the transaction. The procedure provides for strict vertical fixation of drooping facial tissues.

The use of this technique allows us to eliminate the effect in which the skin is stretched. The primary characteristic is the preservation of the results obtained over a long period of time. Also, non-standard tissue excision can reduce the risk of facial nerve deformation. The intervention using gentle local anesthesia lasts for a short period.

S-lifting practically does not cause complications. Prices for procedures are affordable. Rehabilitation is accelerated due to small blood loss. The strictest restriction on the incision significantly reduces the risk of focal hair loss. Standard lifting, as a rule, does not achieve identical results.

Indications for use

Professionals advise using the procedure solely based on indications. According to their instructions, a short-scar facelift is necessary when wrinkles form in the cheekbone area on the temples or forehead. Surgery will be required when drooping corners of the mouth occur, if a second collection appears.

For complete rejuvenation, a combination of forehead lifting and circumferential blepharoplasty is required. It is optimal to carry out cosmetic procedures at the age of 38-50 years. The impact of this technique makes it possible to correct age-related skin changes.

Contraindications

Such cosmetic procedures cannot be used by people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, regardless of stage, as well as with cancer and connective tissue diseases. If there is poor blood clotting. For diseases of the cardiovascular system.

When there is a tendency to the appearance of keloid scars. The procedure is not performed on people with a long history of smoking. Such procedures are prohibited for patients with severe skin diseases. Cosmetologists do not allow s-lifting during lactation or pregnancy. Cosmetologists do not recommend rejuvenation using this method for people whose facial changes, under the influence of age-related processes, are concentrated in the temporal and frontal zone.

Preparation for the s-lifting procedure

The approach is individual, since patients have different skin elasticity and body weight. Therefore, the actual picture of changes will be different. Before preparing for surgery, you should discuss all your concerns with your doctor, including the location of the proposed incisions and the course of the rehabilitation process.

You need to prepare yourself psychologically. It is advisable to take vitamins and microelements. You need to have a good rest. Nutrition should be complete with the obligatory inclusion of animal proteins, vegetables, and fruits. It is recommended two weeks before the proposed procedure to avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages and drugs containing acetylsalicylic acid, which can cause bleeding. Quit smoking.

The medical staff will take photographs of the face for the purpose of subsequently applying clarifying drawings to the finished photographs with a marker. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia for several hours.

Rehabilitation period

You need to be prepared that rehabilitation will take a long time, requiring contact with professionals. Good care will be required to ensure the results last. It is recommended not to be nervous or panic after the operation, since the real result will only be visible after a certain time.

Immediately holding the mirror, you can see swelling and bruising, which is considered natural. They go away in 5-7 days. May not appear. The skin will temporarily lose sensitivity. There will be minor pain.

Painkillers may be prescribed. It is necessary to be patient, since the duration of the rehabilitation process depends on the condition of the body. The true result can only be seen after six months.

You must adhere to the doctor's instructions. The patient is under inpatient observation for 2 days. A compression bandage secures the area of ​​the cheekbones and chin. It should be permanent until the stitches are removed.

In order for swelling to go away faster, the head should be in a stationary, elevated state. The stitches will be removed as healing progresses, usually between days 7-14. During this period, it is not recommended to use decorative cosmetics and wash your hair.

Doctors recommend using a compression bandage for a certain period of time at night if liposuction of the cheeks and chin has been performed before. Food should be liquid and ground, as coarser food causes pain when chewing. Active facial expressions are not desirable. You should refrain from visiting the bathhouse, excessive physical exertion, and exposure to the sun.

To speed up the rehabilitation process includes physiotherapeutic and manual procedures (healing masks, magnetic therapy, etc.). The risk of complications is minimal. This may occur if the instructions of specialists are not followed.

What results can you get?

The s-facial lifting procedure allows those who undergo it to look 7-8 years younger. The primary nuances that influence the main outcome are the presence of concomitant diseases and lifestyle.

Repeated s-lifting can only be done at intervals of five or ten years. When therapeutic or cosmetic procedures took place, the period is significantly delayed. The obtained result will help to consolidate mesotherapy and photorejuvenation for a long time. With their help, you can prevent the possible appearance of soft tissue ptosis. In general, cosmetologists note that the result obtained from the procedure can last for ten years. A person who monitors his health can significantly extend it.

About the author: Larisa Vladimirovna Lukina

(S-lifting, Short-Scar Lift) - a modification of the SMAS lifting, performed through a small S-shaped incision in front of the auricle. A short-scar facelift combines low-impactness and a short rehabilitation period with the advantages of SMAS-lifting - the ability to perform a tightening of the superficial muscular-aponeurotic system of the face and lateral platysmoplasty. A facelift with a short scar is ineffective in cases of severe sagging skin that requires removal of excess neck skin. Candidates for a short-scar facelift are patients aged 30 to 45 years.

(S-lifting, Short-Scar Lift) - a modification of the SMAS lifting, performed through a small S-shaped incision in front of the auricle. A short-scar facelift combines low-impactness and a short rehabilitation period with the advantages of SMAS-lifting - the ability to perform a tightening of the superficial muscular-aponeurotic system of the face and lateral platysmoplasty. A facelift with a short scar is ineffective in cases of severe sagging skin that requires removal of excess neck skin.

Candidates for a short-scar facelift are patients between the ages of 30 and 45 who want a slight tightening of the skin with minimal scarring and no significant changes in the neck area. With the help of S-lifting, it is possible to eliminate cheek jowls, double chin, drooping cheekbones and cheeks, sharp nasolabial folds, and slight sagging neck skin. Also, a short scar facelift may be recommended for patients who require repeat facelift procedures.

With the help of S-lifting, natural aesthetics are improved and facial rejuvenation is achieved with minimal skin incisions and a rehabilitation period. At the same time, a short-scar facelift is a full-fledged multifaceted operation that combines tightening of the skin and subcutaneous SMAS structures of the face. For comprehensive facial rejuvenation with a short-scar lift, blepharoplasty of the lower and upper eyelids is ideally combined.

Advantages

A short scar lift does not involve a behind-the-ear incision like a traditional facelift. Due to this, the operation is characterized by low trauma, which is especially preferable for smoking patients. In rare cases, a short scar facelift requires an additional incision in the temple area, which will be safely hidden in the hair. The absence of an incision in the retroauricular area prevents the possibility of damage to the branches of the facial nerve.

Due to vertical tissue tightening performed during S-lifting, it is possible to achieve the most natural rejuvenation effect. The application of special sutures that support the internal structures of the face allows you to correct the angle of the lower jaw, eliminate jowls and tighten the skin of the neck. During a short scar facelift, the subcutaneous SMAS structures of the face are lifted, which determines the long-term results of facial and neck rejuvenation.

A short-scar facelift is associated with shorter surgery and anesthesia time, injuries and blood loss, which reduces rehabilitation time. The limited incision provides a smaller wound surface, and the absence of stitches behind the ears reduces the risk of hair loss, which is quite high after a classic facelift.