SMAS facelift techniques to minimize stigmata of surgery

Patients seeking facial rejuvenation surgery are commonly concerned about their postoperative appearance. Their anxiety is expressed in the form of general statements about looking too different, not themselves, or being recognized for having had "something done." Typically, these reservations are the result of scars or deformities seen in a public figure, relative, or passerby. The more recognizable stigmata of facial rejuvenation surgery include unnatural hairlines, tragal distortions, ear lobule deformities, irregular neck contours, and an overall look of being lifted. The specific techniques and philosophy to prevent these stigmata are presented herein in a problem-specific format.