what is a midface lift

What Is a Mid-Face Lift?

A mid-face lift focuses on lifting sagging cheeks and the area around the lower eyelids. Over time, midface fat pads shift, causing hollows under the eyes. The procedure repositions the cheek area for better balance. It restores volume and creates a more youthful look.

The surgery uses small incisions, often hidden near the hairline or along the lower eyelid. It adjusts the soft tissue and fat pads, reducing volume loss and smoothing the contours of your face. If sagging cheeks or signs of aging are changing your look, a mid-face lift can help bring back a refreshed, natural look.

The guide explains the mid-face lift procedure, recovery time, and results. It also compares cosmetic options like dermal fillers and traditional facelifts, helping you choose the best path for facial rejuvenation.

Surgical vs Nonsurgical Cheek Lift Procedures

Cheek lift procedures can be divided into two main categories: surgical and non-surgical. Both aim to lift sagging cheeks, reduce hollows, and restore a youthful contour. The key difference lies in how the results are achieved, how long they last, and what they cost over time.

Non-Surgical Options

Fillers, Botox, and thread lifts are popular non-surgical options. Dermal fillers add volume to the cheeks and smooth out creases like nasolabial folds. Botox relaxes muscles, giving a subtle lift to specific areas. Thread lifts use dissolvable threads to physically lift sagging skin. These options are less invasive and require little downtime. 

However, the effects are temporary. As aging progresses, you may need treatments more often. Larger doses may be required to achieve the same results. Over time, this can make non-surgical options costly.

Surgical Cheek Lifts

A surgical procedure provides lasting results by repositioning soft tissue and fat pads. Small incisions near the hairline or lower eyelid give access to lift the cheeks. These incisions also smooth out jowls for a refined look. This approach addresses deeper signs of aging, such as sagging skin and volume loss, that non-surgical methods can’t fully correct. Recovery takes longer with surgery, but the results last for years, reducing the need for repeated cosmetic procedures.

What to Consider

Your age and skin elasticity play a big role in choosing between these options. Younger patients with mild sagging may benefit from fillers or thread lifts. A surgical cheek lift may be a better investment for older patients or those with more significant changes. You need to balance your goals, the longevity of the results, and the long-term cost.

Exploring the Results of a Mid-Face Lift

  1. Lifted Cheeks

A mid-face lift repositions sagging cheeks that have shifted over time. Elevating the soft tissue restores the natural curves of your cheekbones, creating a youthful, refreshed profile. The lift also smooths the transition between cheeks and lower eyelids, adding balance to your face.

  1. Reduced Hollows Under the Eyes

Fat pads beneath the lower eyelid are adjusted to reduce hollowing. These hollows can make your eyes look tired or sunken. The lift fills out the area, softening shadows and brightening your eyes. This gives a rested and vibrant look that enhances your entire face.

  1. Smoothed Smile Lines

Nasolabial folds, or smile lines, deepen as skin loses elasticity. A mid-face lift gently lifts tissue to reduce these lines. The result is smoother skin and softer creases, creating a seamless transition from the nose to the corners of the mouth. Check out these before and after results.

  1. Tightened Skin and Soft Tissue

Loose skin in the midface is tightened during the procedure. The lift reduces excess skin and improves elasticity, minimizing wrinkles and creases, leaving the skin firm and smooth. It restores a healthy, youthful texture without looking artificial.

  1. Improved Jawline and Lower Face

A mid-face lift also benefits the lower face. It lifts sagging tissue, reduces jowls, and tightens the jawline. The result is a sharper, more defined lower face. This creates a clean, youthful contour that compliments the rest of your features.

  1. Natural Facial Rejuvenation

The results are balanced and natural-looking. The procedure restores symmetry and addresses volume loss without overdoing it. Your features are refreshed while maintaining their natural character. It’s a transformation that looks effortless and real. Here’s an example:

FAQs

How does a mid-face lift differ from a mini facelift?

A mid-face lift focuses on lifting sagging cheeks and reducing hollows under the eyes. A mini facelift, on the other hand, targets the lower face and jawline. The mid-face lift is ideal for improving the cheek area, while a mini facelift is better for tightening the lower face.

What are the side effects of a mid-face lift?

Side effects may include swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness. These are normal and often improve within a week or two. Ice packs can help reduce swelling during the recovery period.

Is general anesthesia required for a mid-face lift?

Most mid-face lifts are performed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. In some cases, sedation may be used for less invasive techniques. Your board-certified surgeon will determine the best option based on your needs. 

Does a mid-face lift include resurfacing or upper lip treatments?

A mid-face lift primarily targets the cheeks and midface area. Resurfacing or upper lip treatments, such as addressing fine lines, are separate procedures. These can often be combined for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

How important are follow-up appointments after the surgery?

Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring your healing process. They ensure your recovery is on track and allow your surgeon to address any concerns. Regular follow-ups help maintain the best possible results.

Can a mid-face lift be combined with a lower facelift?

A mid-face lift and a lower facelift can be done together. This combination provides more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Combining these procedures targets multiple areas, including the cheeks and jawline. 

Who is a good candidate for a full facelift or neck lift?

A good candidate has sagging skin, jowls, or deep wrinkles. These procedures are best for those with good overall health and skin elasticity.

Can a lower eyelid blepharoplasty or fat transfer be combined with a brow lift?

Yes, these procedures are often performed together for enhanced results. A lower eyelid blepharoplasty reduces under-eye bags and tightens skin, while a fat transfer restores lost volume. 

Contact the Jay Calvert Team to Explore your Options Today

A mid-face lift can transform your look and restore confidence. The results are natural and long-lasting. They include lifting sagging cheeks and smoothing smile lines. This procedure targets the effects of aging with precision, creating balance and rejuvenation.

Ready to learn how a mid-face lift fits your goals? Connect with the Jay Calvert team today. Schedule a consultation to explore personalized options and take the first step toward a refreshed, youthful appearance!