| Coming soon: algorithm for face-lifting, a step wise guide to procedures for facial rejuvenation. |
Short Scar Face-lift or "S" Lift
Definition: Rejuvenation of the lower face from the temples to the lower neck
utilizing a short scar from the top of the ear in front to half the vertical length of the
skin behind the ear.
How does this differ from a standard Face-lift?
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| Picture 1: Traditional facelift scar |
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| Picture 2: Short scar facelift scar. |
The main difference is the length of the scar. The
scar does not extend into the scalp above the ear,
avoiding the risk of hair loss or bald areas in this
part of the scalp. In addition, in the region behind
the ear, the scar stops in the crease. It does not
cross the hairless skin behind the ear which often
leads to a thickened scar and it does not extend
into the scalp behind the ear with a risk of hair
loss and the possibility of altering or raising the
hair-line. (Pic. 1)
Another advantage is that the stitches are
absorbable and that no staples are required (as in
a standard face-lift). The recovery is faster with
less bruising. Because there is less elevation of
the skin there is less "dead-space" and less risk
of fluid or blood collecting under the skin which
delays healing. (Pic. 2)
Age: From 30 years old and up. This lift is
generally more appropriate for the younger facelift
patient in her 40's to 50's but can be applied to
suitable patients in their 60's.
Surgical technique: The facial and neck skin is elevated. Fat is suctioned from the
jowls and under the chin only if necessary. If there are muscle bands (platysmal
bands) under the chin, they are brought together with stitches through an incision in
the crease under the chin. The Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System (SMAS) - a
layer of tissue connected to the muscles in the face- is tightened. The cheek fat is
re-elevated to a youthful level thus recreating the cheek highlights. Incisions are
placed inside and behind the ear so that the patient can wear the hair up. The
sideburn is left in its youthful position.
Philosophy: Face-lifting techniques are constantly moving in the direction of being
less traumatic and a quicker recovery. This is not a weekend facelift. Week-end
facelifts last for a weekend! Nor is the short scar facelift any less expensive than a
standard lift. However it can be thought of as the executive facelift for those on the
run and with limited time to take out of their hectic business or social schedule.
Surgical time and recovery: Surgery takes about 2-3 hours. Stitches are out after 9
days. The patient can go back to work at 10-14 days.
Related procedures: The most frequent related procedures are blepharoplasty and
brow-lift. Blepharoplasty is usually performed in the lower lid through a
trans-conjunctival or internal incision. Fat is removed sparingly from the upper and
lower lid. Brow lifting is done with an endoscopic approach using three small
incisions to visualize the corrugator muscles which cause the frown lines. The
muscles are partially removed. The brow is released and then elevated and is then
fixed in an elevated position using Endotine implants (Nancy link to Endotine Brow
Lift page).
More information for facial plastic surgery procedures.
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Body Contouring Procedures 
