The midface lift is a surgical procedure designed to elevate or re-suspend the sagging cheek. With the aging process, the skin loses it elasticity, resulting in sagging in the cheeks and eyelids. This can often create a tired, worn or aged appearance. The midface lift can rejuvenate the facial appearance by restoring the cheek to a more youthful position.

The midface lift is an ideal procedure for individuals who are bothered by a flattened midface appearance and prominent nasolabial folds caused by sagging of the cheek fat pad. As with all types of surgery, candidates should also have realistic expectations for improvement and be in good physical health. While the procedure is often performed on its own, it can be combined with eyelid surgery, lower facelift and/or browlift for additional rejuvenation.

Dr. O'Mara performs the midface lift at an outpatient surgery center using either IV sedation or general anesthesia. Surgical times average one and one-half hours in length. The incisions are small and inconspicuous and may be located just below the eyelash line of the lower eyelid or in the temporal area behind the hairline. Working through these incisions, Dr. O'Mara will elevate the soft tissue over the cheekbone, suturing it to a new, higher position in order to create a fuller, more youthful appearance to the midface region.

Patients can expect some amount of swelling, bruising and minor discomfort after the midface lift. The swelling can last up to three to four weeks. Sutures are removed after one week. Most patients are able to return to work within two to three weeks, though this will depend on the degree of swelling. More strenuous activities can typically be resumed after three weeks.

Because the midface region is one of the most affected by the aging process, results of the midface lift can be particularly dramatic. Patients will enjoy a more youthful cheek position free of hollowness in the cheeks and prominent nasolabial folds.