Midface Lift

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Englewood and Denver, CO

A midface lift is a cosmetic procedure that rejuvenates the middle of the face, including the cheeks and nasolabial folds. These areas of the midface can begin to sag over time as a result of aging, weight loss, and other factors that can cause loose skin to hang from the cheeks and deep smile lines to form. (1,2) While a traditional facelift is typically more comprehensive as it also addresses the areas of the jaw and neck, a midface lift provides a more focused alternative that is great for individuals who are seeking to address the midface areas only.

At Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery, double board-certified surgeons Dr. Mario Imola and Dr. David Kowalczyk are highly experienced in cosmetic facial procedures like the midface lift. With great care and attention, Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk can provide midface lift results that appear natural and leave patients looking years younger.

To schedule an appointment with our team, please call our Englewood office at (303) 839-7980 or fill out our contact form.

About the Midface Lift

A midface lift is a targeted surgical procedure designed to improve the midface region by elevating sagging tissues in the cheek area and correcting volume loss. Over time, factors such as aging, environmental conditions, and lifestyle choices can result in decreased elasticity of the skin and subcutaneous fat. When this happens, the cheeks may droop, contributing to accentuated nasolabial folds and an overall tired look. Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk can achieve effective results by removing excess skin with discreet incisions. By tightening this skin, they can reduce the appearance of sagging in the midface region, as well as the presence of deep or fine lines and folds. Patients with previously sagging cheeks and deep nasolabial folds can enjoy a smoother facial contour as a result. (1)

Midface Lift vs. Traditional Facelift

If you are considering a midface lift or a traditional facelift, there are some factors you should consider. The most important aspect is which areas of the face you are looking to address; if you are mostly dissatisfied with the appearance of your cheeks or smile lines because of sagging skin, then a midface lift might be best for you. However, if you are noticing sagging jowls and neck skin in addition to the aforementioned issues, you may benefit from the more comprehensive approach that a traditional facelift can provide.

Both procedures will provide you with results that reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging. Because the traditional facelift addresses more areas of the face, it may require a longer recovery period. If you are unsure about what approach might be most effective for your situation, our team can help you decide what is best for you during a personal consultation at our Englewood office.

Benefits

A midface lift can provide patients with many benefits, such as:

  • Improved facial contour: A midface lift can reduce sagging skin that is obscuring the natural features of the face.
  • Rejuvenated appearance: Patients can look years younger after a midface lift, without the sagging, wrinkly skin that can cause a tired look.
  • Reduced lines: A midface lift can smooth out smile lines, or the wrinkles that appear by the nose and extend down toward the mouth.
  • Improved self-confidence: When patients receive a midface lift, they can enjoy a renewed boost in confidence.
  • Long-term results: The results of a midface lift can last about 10 years or even longer–this number depends on the patient.
  • Simpler alternative: The midface lift provides a less extensive approach than a traditional facelift.
  • Complementary Procedures: The midface lift can be combined with other facial rejuvenation techniques like eyelid surgery to provide comprehensive aesthetic enhancements.

Candidates

Ideal candidates for a midface lift are men and women who may experience the following characteristics:

  • Loose or sagging skin in the midface area
  • Pronounced nasolabial folds
  • Volume loss in the cheeks, leading to an aged appearance
  • Good overall health, with realistic expectations for surgical outcomes
  • Non-smokers or those willing to refrain from smoking pre- and post-surgery

It is essential to consult with Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk to determine whether a midface lift aligns with your objectives.

Personal Consultation

The first step toward a midface lift procedure is a personal consultation with either Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk. At this time, they will evaluate your facial structure, your facial skin, and your medical history. Based on this information, they will recommend a detailed treatment plan that will address all of your needs in a way that aligns with your aesthetic preferences. If you indicate that you would like a more comprehensive procedure, they may recommend a traditional facelift procedure as an alternative.

To schedule a consultation at the Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery office near Denver, please call us at (303) 839-7980 or fill out our contact form.

Preparation

Once we finalize your plan for a midface lift, specific preparations are necessary for a successful outcome. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

  • Medication Review: Discontinue any blood thinners, supplements, or medications as instructed in the weeks leading up to surgery.
  • Avoid Smoking: Forego nicotine use for at least four weeks before and after surgery, as it can hinder healing.
  • Plan Recovery Time: Set aside adequate time for rest and recovery post-operation, generally a minimum of two weeks before returning to work.
  • Arrange Transportation: Since sedation or anesthesia will be used, secure a ride home after your procedure.
  • Fill Prescriptions Ahead of Time: Getting your pain medication and antibiotics ready in advance allows a smooth recovery process.

Procedure

To perform your midface lift, Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will need to make the incisions necessary to smooth out the targeted region. They will hide these discreet incisions along the natural contours of the face or hairline. The underlying facial tissues are gently lifted and repositioned to restore the desired contour and volume. If necessary, excess skin may be trimmed. After removing the appropriate amount of excess skin, they secure the adjustments with supportive sutures. (1,2) The procedure generally lasts 1 to 3 hours, depending on the chosen techniques and any additional surgical elements.

Recovery

While you recover from your midface lift, it is important to prioritize resting and avoid partaking in any overly strenuous activities. You will need to attend follow-up appointments where Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk can assess your progress. After about 4 weeks, you should be able to return to most activities. (1)

It is normal to experience soreness in the treatment area after a midface lift. Cold compresses can help ameliorate any swelling that may occur. If you have any questions during your recovery, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Results

Patients can anticipate significant improvements in their facial aesthetics once they have fully recovered from the midface lift. Enhanced cheek contours, minimized nasolabial folds, and a refreshed overall appearance contribute to an upward turn in self-esteem and confidence levels.

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures

While Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk can perform a midface lift as a standalone procedure, they can also combine it with other procedures if the patient wishes to address other areas of the face. At Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of different lifting procedures that you can pair with the midface lift to further rejuvenate your facial appearance.

Forehead Lift (Brow Lift)

A brow lift is a cosmetic surgery designed to improve the appearance of the forehead, eyebrows, and area around the eyes. It helps address sagging brows, which can give a person a tired, angry, or unhappy look. This surgical procedure creates a more youthful and alert appearance by repositioning the eyebrows and tightening the forehead skin.

Blepharoplasty

A blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift, can address both the upper and lower eyelids by removing excess skin and fat to create a more wakeful appearance. As we age, our eyelid skin may sag, leading to bothersome drooping lids that can affect one’s self-esteem.

Lip Lift

A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the lips. It primarily focuses on shortening the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose, which results in lips that appear fuller and more defined. By improving lip position, the procedure aims to create a more youthful and appealing facial balance.

Cost of a Midface Lift in Denver

The cost of your midface lift will depend on various factors that Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will evaluate during a personal consultation. At Colorado Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer financing options that can help you plan your procedure.

To schedule a personal consultation at our Englewood office, please call us at (303) 839-7980 or fill out our contact form for more information.

FAQ

How is a midface lift different from a traditional facelift?

A midface lift addresses fewer areas of the face when compared to a traditional facelift. While a midface lift addresses the region of the middle of the face, including the cheeks and nasolabial folds, a traditional facelift also addresses the jowls and the upper neck.

How long is a midface lift procedure?

A midface lift procedure can vary in length. Usually, they are 1-3 hours in duration.

How long do results from a midface lift procedure last?

Results from a midface lift procedure will last for a long time, but facial skin will continue to age over time. Patients can see the results of a midface lift last up to 10 years or longer.

Will there be visible scarring from a midface lift?

Scarring from a midface lift is minimal. Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk will strategically place the incisions so that they result in subtle scars after healing is complete.

Can a midface lift be combined with other procedures?

Absolutely! Patients can choose to combine a midface lift with other cosmetic surgeries, such as eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or a lip lift. Combining a midface lift with other procedures can provide a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

References

  1. Pérez P, Hohman MH. Mid-Face Facelift. PubMed. Published 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563237/
  2. Trussler AP, H. Steve Byrd. Management of the Midface During Facial Rejuvenation. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2009;23(04):274-282. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1242182