WHAT is Mid-Face Rejuvenation?
Dr. Becker uses mid-face rejuvenation to help improve sagging or flattened cheek tissues and restore youthful-looking volume to the mid-face area. Dr. Becker often combines a mid-face procedure with facelifting, to address the volume loss and deflated appearance of the cheeks that result from the loss of volume that occurs with aging. This is due to the fact that while facelift procedures are effective in improving the neck and jawline, they generally do not effectively rejuvenate the mid-face. Simply lifting and tightening this area causes it to become widened and flattened, resulting in a somewhat unnatural appearance. By restoring the lost volume of the mid-face, Dr. Becker elevates the sagging tissue, leading to a natural, youthful result.
Fat Grafting Vs Mid-Face Rejuvenation
Fat Grafting
Fat grafting has the advantage of being performed under local anesthesia and is relatively quick with minimal risk and quicker recovery. Fat is collected from another area of the body and injected into the desired location using specialized instruments. Once the transferred fat heals into the area, restoration in volume is achieved; however, the amount of fat that survives the transfer process can be difficult to predict. Under correction occurs in a significant number of cases, because a portion of the injected fat will typically not survive the transfer process. A second procedure may be necessary to achieve the final, desired degree of improvement.
FAT TRANSFER RECOVERY
Fat transfer is typically performed under local anesthesia, or under deep sedation, if it is combined with other procedures. Fat is “borrowed” from either the lower abdomen or the thighs. After processing it to remove unwanted fluids, the fat is placed using special syringes, after a “nick” is made with a hypodermic needle. The nicks are closed using tiny dissolving sutures to keep the fat in place. No dressings are needed, but it is very important not to rub or apply any pressure to the areas for one week to avoid relocating the grafts. Bruising is usually very minimal if any. Some swelling is expected but usually subsides in one to two weeks.
Midface Implant
This is a more advanced method of mid-face restoration. In this procedure, small incisions are made above the gum, behind the upper lip. A pocket is created and the implant is anchored to the bone, leading to a predictable and reliable rejuvenation that has the added advantage of being reversible. Mid-face implants differ from cheek implants because they sit closer to the front of the face, helping to return volume in the area below the eyes. Cheek implants are designed to sit higher and closer to the side of the face. Facial implants also have the additional benefit of being stable over time, compared to fat grafting or filler, which can sag, settle or dissolve with time.
Mid-Face Implant Recovery (MID)
Mid-face implant placement is performed under deep sedation, during which the patient unaware of their environment. Post-operative nausea and sore throat that may accompany general anesthesia is usually avoided with surgery performed under deep sedation. Following the procedure, patients will notice two small incisions inside the mouth between the gums and the upper lip. Rinsing the mouth following meals is recommended to quicken healing of the incision. Pain is minimal. Light activities may be resumed a few days following surgery. If discretion is desired, individuals should plan to take at least ten days before returning to public life.
