Facelift Minimal Incisions

Minimal-Incision Facelift

 

If you’re considering a facelift...

 

There are many alternative techniques to reposition and tighten the skin and soft tissue structures of the face. The main goal of minimal-incision facelift is to limit the scarring that accompanies Facelift. This procedure is not a Mini-lift is the most refined kind of facelift at the present time.

 

No aesthetic procedure can stop the aging process. What facelifts can do is to "turn back the clock" by improving the facial descent and deflation that occurs over time. Facelifts can be done alone or, more commonly, in combination with other facial aesthetic procedures. Dr. Gomez-Mendoza frequently performs Facelift of the eyelids and limited laser resurfacing in combination with the minimal-incision face Facelift procedures.

 

If you’re considering Facelift, this information will help provide a basic understanding of what a short-scar Facelift (or "minimal-incision facelift") can and cannot achieve. Because facial aging affects each individual patient differently no amount of written information can replace a personal consultation with Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and his team.

 

The following information is strictly the opinion of Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and pertains to his personal technique of short-scar Facelift named “G-Z” and other Facelift procedures as performed by him.

 

 

What is a minimal-incision Facelift or short-scar facelift?

 

Is a lift that repositions the skin and soft tissues of the face that have been affected by the aging process. The principle difference between a short-scar lift and other, “traditional” facelifts is that the short-scar lift features a significantly reduced scar. The scarring in the crease behind the ear and in the hairline behind the ear is largely or completely eliminated.

 

The procedure as performed by Dr. Gomez-Mendoza is a multi-layer, multi-vector repositioning of the "SMAS" layer and malar fat pad and some other internal soft tissue structures that may require volumetrically adjustments separately from the overlying skin. Finally, the incisions are closed (we only use absorbable sutures placed in an intradermal running fashion so you will not see them and they do not need to be removed). This technique obviates the need for external skin sutures and circumvents the possibility of suture marks.

 

 

Why is it important to eliminate or minimize the scarring behind the ear?

 

Of the scarring associated with a facelift, often the scar in the crease behind the ear has a higher tendency to widen and thicken compared to the scarring in other areas of the face.

 

When scars are placed in the hair behind the ear, there is almost always a permanent change in the hairline and the hair must be styled to hide the scars in this area.

 

Finally, when a patient wears her hair in a pony-tail, or styles it backward or "up" the scarring in the crease behind the ear and in the area between the crease and the hairline becomes visible to others. By eliminating the scarring in these areas, the most noticeable scarring of a facelift is reduced or eliminated.

 

 

Where are the incisions for a short-scar facelift?

 

The incisions (and ultimately the scars) for a minimal-incision Facelift begin in the temporal hair and extend downward, in front of the ear to the earlobe. Sometimes the incision can extend behind the earlobe or slightly behind the ear but they will not be visible.

 

The choice of placing the scar in the crease just in front of the ear or within the ear itself is determined by individual patient anatomy.

 

An alternative incision is to place the incision along the temporal hairline, rather than within the temporal hair, in order to minimize the incision at the earlobe area and minimize distortion of the sideburn.

 

 

Who are the best candidates for short-scar facelifts?

 

The short-scar lift is probably most applicable to patients in whom correction of mid-facial aging is the primary concern. While such patients are usually under the age of 60, Dr. Gomez-Mendoza has performed minimal-incision Facelift in patients substantially older than this in certain circumstances (when the patients do not need a major correction of loose and sagging skin and soft tissue in the neck). In comparison to traditional facelifts this is the principle disadvantage of the minimal-incision Facelift.

 

Like traditional facelifts, this procedure is designed to lift the cheek, reduce the jowl, shorten the lower eyelid and soften the nasolabial fold. By restoring a more sinuous facial curve the tired, look of age is reduced as the more square aged face is shaped toward the more triangular shaped face of youth.

 

It's important for patients to understand that the minimal-incision Facelift is limited in its ability to provide correction of loose and sagging skin and soft tissue in the neck. But each case has to be valuated separately.

 

 

What type of anesthesia is used?

 

Dr. Gomez-Mendoza performs most Facelift procedures, including minimal-incision Facelift under sedation some patients refer to this as "twilight" type anesthesia (gentle, short-acting medication is administered by a board certified anesthesiologist to insure comfort and security for our patients) and local anesthesia. Patients are under monitored anesthesia care since they arrive to the operating room till they leave the recovery area; ensuring that you receive the safest care possible. The expert care you deserve.

 

Our patients recover more quickly and with less discomfort than when general anesthesia is used.

 

 

Where will your short-scar facelift be performed?

 

Dr. Gomez-Mendoza performs most Facelift procedures at the modern Puerta de Hierro Medical Center, whether you choose to have your procedure done in the peaceful seclusion of our state-of-the-art Medical Center, or at one of the many Guadalajara or Puerto Vallarta-area hospitals where we currently enjoy operating privileges; rest assured that you'll receive the finest care available.

 

 

How long is the recovery period?

 

Definitively the recovery period, including bruising and swelling, is shorter for the minimal-incision Facelift compared to more traditional lifts; however the recovery period may vary from one patient to another. Dr. Gomez-Mendoza understands the need for our patients to return to their business and social schedules after about one week.

 

It's important for you to keep in mind that healing — of any form — is a gradual process during the initial phases of recovery, you'll experience minor pain and discomfort along with swelling and bruising around the operative areas in some cases. This is normal. You'll be given medications to handle the pain, and in time, the swelling and bruising will disappear. It's also not unusual to feel depressed in the days following surgery. Again, keep in mind that this is normal and will subside as you begin to look and feel better.

 

 

How do I prepare for my short-scar facelift?

 

Facelift must be individualized for each patient; Dr. Gomez-Mendoza will evaluate your face, including your skin, and with your assistance, make recommendations as to the specific procedures that will most likely help you achieve your aesthetic goals. A detailed history of medical conditions that could affect your surgery will be obtained including use of medications, vitamins, etc.

 

You will be given detailed written instructions on how to prepare for your surgery including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and avoidance of certain vitamins and medications. If you smoke it’s especially important to stop (and also to avoid second-hand smoke) for at least two weeks prior to surgery because of the deleterious effect of smoking upon the healing process. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. In addition, we'll also be available to answer any questions you might have or any concerns that arise. Please don't hesitate to call us.

 

 

Are there any risks?

 

When minimal-incision Facelift is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon certified by the Board of Plastic Surgery, complications are infrequent and usually minor.

 

While Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and his team make every effort to minimize risk, individuals vary greatly in their anatomy, their healing ability as well as in their reactions to surgery and anesthesia.

 

 

Complications that may occur include haematoma (a collection of blood beneath the skin), infection, poor healing, and reactions to medications. You can reduce your risks by closely following the advice of your surgeon concerning your pre- and post-operative care.

 

To contact plastic surgeon Dr. Jesús Gómez Mendoza about any cosmetic surgery procedures, please fill out our contact form or call us at +52 (33) 3848-5477