Mid-face Lift

A mid-face lift, also known as a cheek lift, focuses on reversing the early signs of aging, specifically the sagging of the cheeks and the surrounding area. The traditional facelift may not adequately address the upper cheek and lower eyelid areas, which tend to lose volume and become stretched with age.

A procedure known as a cheek lift is performed to elevate the malar fat pad in the cheek area, enhancing the fullness of the eyes and cheeks, and ultimately rejuvenating one’s appearance. The results of this method last for a significant period compared to injectable options, while the time required for recovery is less compared to a conventional facelift.

When to Consider a Mid-Face lift?

If you observe that your cheeks look flat, your cheekbones are well-defined, and you appear tired when you see yourself in the mirror, you may be suitable for this. Before having the surgery, a healthcare provider will evaluate if you are a good fit. It is worth mentioning that this procedure is not limited to older people and is frequently done after the age of 30.

Am I a candidate for a mid-face lift?

The mid-face lift, or commonly called cheek lift, is a personalized procedure that specifically caters to each individual’s needs. Those who are deemed suitable candidates for a mid-face lift include:

• Individuals experiencing a heavy feeling beneath their cheeks.
• Individuals with hollows or depressions beneath their eyes.
• Individuals who are in a satisfactory state of physical well-being and do not possess any medical ailments that may impede the process of recovery or increase the potential risks associated with surgery.
• Individuals with a positive outlook and specific achievable objectives aimed at improving their physical appearance.

How does a mid-facelift work?

As the skin ages, it starts to lose its natural ability to recover, causing it to become less taut and more susceptible to sagging.

As the skin ages, the underlying structures including muscles, ligaments, fat, and even bones also experience the effects of aging.

A mid-facelift is a cosmetic procedure that aims to enhance the appearance of the face by tightening the underlying muscles, leading to a rejuvenated and firm look. Moreover, this surgical technique involves repositioning facial fat to diminish the hollowed-out appearance below the eyes.

The surgical procedure is advantageous in diminishing wrinkles and loosening in the cheeks, and it can also minimize smile lines. However, it does not solely concentrate on enhancing the look of the chin or forehead like a complete facelift does.

To perform a mid-facelift, a surgeon makes two small incisions close to the hairline. From there, they go on to tighten the muscles and modify the fat deposits situated beneath the skin.

Individuals seeking a youthful and energized appearance, along with improved cheekbones and more youthful eyes, while keeping their jawline and forehead untouched, may discover that opting for a mid-facelift is an advantageous decision.

Most people are very satisfied with the results they get from getting a mid-facelift.

What are the different choices one has when considering mid-face lift or cheek lift procedures?

The minimally invasive percutaneous mid-face lift (PML) is an advanced technique used to lift the mid-face. Developed by facial aesthetic surgeons from the Cleveland Clinic, this procedure effectively tightens the skin under the eyes and reduces wrinkles around the mouth and nose. It accomplishes these outcomes by making small incisions without the need to cut through tissue or muscle.

During a minimally invasive mid-face lift, the surgeon repositions the fat pad using a subtle suspension system that is placed beneath the skin. This procedure involves creating a small incision near the temple in the hairline and two tiny punctures on the cheek. Needles are then inserted to thread delicate sutures under the skin and through the upper part of the fat pad.

Two sutures are used to delicately tighten and reposition the fat pad. After it is properly moved, it is secured to the side of the head using an incision site and a strong tissue known as the temporal fascia. Typically, the entire minimally invasive mid-face lift procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

After Surgery 

Eating begins soon after the operation and the patient will start moving around. The patient will stay in the hospital for one night. There may be some slight swelling and bruising in the face, which can be minimized by using a cold compress in the early stages. The bandages will be removed after 2-3 days, allowing the patient to take a shower. The stitches will be taken out between day 5 and 7. The swelling and bruises typically disappear within 2-3 weeks. The patient can go back to work 3-5 days after the surgery. Light activities can be resumed after 2-3 weeks, while strenuous activities should be avoided for a month.

Mid-facelift vs. full facelift

Both a mid-facelift and a full facelift have similarities in their procedures, but a full facelift is more comprehensive. The full facelift is intended to address the face from the neck to the forehead, whereas the mid-facelift focuses on the specific area between the upper lip and the corner of the eyes.

To effectively target wrinkles on the forehead and sagging skin on the neck, the recommended approach is a comprehensive facelift. Alternatively, a mid-facelift specifically concentrates on firming the skin in the cheek area, although the same outcome can also be achieved with a complete facelift.

Both techniques require a incision that is made at the hairline and typically extends around the ear in a curved shape resembling the letter “S”.

Despite having a larger incision, the length of time required for initial healing after a complete facelift is similar to that of a mid-facelift.

Within a span of two weeks, you should be able to resume your usual routine, and it will take approximately two to three months for the full results of your facelift to become apparent.

What results can I expect?

Getting a mid-face lift can greatly alter your appearance. While you may observe immediate changes, it is possible for the cheek pad to seem excessively lifted at first. However, this effect will diminish over time and settle into a more natural position. To maintain long-lasting results, it is important to regularly visit your cosmetic surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Center for follow-up appointments. Additionally, it is crucial to consistently protect your skin from sun damage throughout your life. We encourage you to view our collection of before and after photos of patients who have undergone a cheek lift (mid-face lift) to see the outcomes firsthand.

Having Mid-face Lift in Turkey?

The patient must carefully search for an appropriate service provider, have information, and ask about the surgeon and his experience. And also, checking examples of his previous operations.

Accordingly, we encourage you to contact the Health & Beauty to obtain all information and details, and to ensure that you have your operation done by the hands of the most skilled doctors working in this specialty.

Request a free consultation.