Advances and controversies in face lift surgery

The only constant in face lift surgery is the goal-rejuvenation of the lower two thirds of the face and neck. Societal shifts have focused patients on less invasive procedures, with less downtime and more rapid return to daily activities.

The lateral SMASectomy procedure has proven to be an effective technique, with a high degree of safety, minimal morbidity, and high patient satisfaction. Additionally, younger patients often require less extensive procedures to achieve an aesthetically desirable result. Recent advances such as the short scar face lift with SMASectomy, and the S-lift, have centered upon less invasive approaches to lower face and neck restoration. The optimal technique for correction of platysma bands also remains elusive, with multiple options available. All procedures dramatically benefit from the use of tumescent anesthesia to decrease operative time, postoperative morbidity, and recovery time.

There is no single ideal technique for each patient. The procedure used must be individualized for each patient's unique anatomy and goal for surgical restoration.