Fortunately, plastic surgery has in recent years been on a course similar to other surgical disciplines – more individualized, less invasive treatments that result in shorter downtime and fewer scars. So let’s dive in, shall we?
The more traditional face-lift, brow lift, and eyelid plasty all have options for less surgical intervention. The short scar face-lift, trampoline lift and Bellalift are all versions of a face-lift that address specific patient concerns with less scarring, and in appropriate patients, allow the procedures to be performed with local anesthesia only. Eyelid surgery can be approached through the inside of the lid with no visible external scars and use redistribution as opposed to elimination of the localized fat deposits to improve the result, particularly in the tear trough under the eye. Brow lifts can be performed endoscopically through small incisions with minimal scars, and the list goes on. In addition, where appropriate, surgery can be avoided altogether. My options for facial rejuvenation now include liposuction, micro fat transfer, Botox injections, fillers and laser resurfacing.
The facial areas most suitable for liposuction include the lower face, neck and jowl lines. When working in the neck, the surgeon removes just enough fat to restore a 90-degree angle between the chin and neck. The idea is not to remove every drop of fat, but to improve the individual’s facial shape and make it more pleasant and youthful-looking. Using SmartLipo to bring the benefits of the laser to the liposuction procedure has improved the results in this area. The use of micro fat transfer or fillers for the depressions in the nasolabial fold and along the lines of the lip completes the liposculpture portion of the rejuvenating surgery. Botox can be added to treat lines in the forehead, creases at the base of the nose, crow’s-feet and even fine lines on the upper lip and neck.
Rounding out the options for facial rejuvenation is laser resurfacing, which can be used to improve some wrinkles as well as defects of skin color and texture. While these procedures involve less surgery than the traditional face-lift and have lesser anesthesia requirements, they should still be undertaken with adherence to the same safety principles that apply to other surgeries.
In summary, after an appropriate consultation, each individual patient can be treated with the right combination of liposculpture, relaxants, fillers or laser treatments that will provide the best overall result. In those patients for whom surgery remains the best option, newer, less invasive techniques can be used as well to limit the recovery period.
The overriding principle remains to match the optimum approach to the needs and desires of the individual patient.
Please send any questions or comments to mrosenberg@nwhc.net.
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