A cheek lift is also known as a midface lift. It is a surgical procedure that can raise the cheek muscles and lift the skin to reverse signs of aging and create a youthful appearance. By lifting the cheeks, smile lines and wrinkles will be visibly smoothened and volume will be added to the cheeks.
As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity and fat, creating a gaunt and hollowed appearance. The muscles and skin begin a descent creating jowls. A cheek lift can help to create a younger, fuller look. It is considered less invasive than the typical facelift and lasts much longer than injectable fillers.
The procedure can be combined with other techniques such as fillers, implants and fat grafting. The methods used depend on the patient’s end goal.
A cheek lift surgery is usually done under general anesthetic. It is an outpatient procedure that takes 3 hours to complete. The incisions made are typically created under the eyes, in the scalp or in front of the ears. The surgeon will reshape the tissues, tightening and raising the cheek muscles and removing loose skin. If requested, professionals can also add dermal fillers or implants to improve the volume of the cheeks. The site will then be closed using sutures. These are usually removed 5-7 days after the procedure. It is usual for patients to experience some swelling, and recovery will take around ten days. Ice packs can ease swelling, and patients can take prescribed pain medication to alleviate any discomfort. Patients will notice some immediate results. Initially, the cheeks may appear to be a little high. Over time, the cheeks will settle lower, and after six months, recovery is complete. Results can last over ten years.
There are some non-surgical alternatives to a midface lift. These can include dermal fillers or FaceTite. The latter uses radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. While results may not be as dramatic as a facelift, there is less downtime than with the surgical option.
