The Pinch Rhytidectomy: A Safe, Effective, "Low SMAS" Variation on the Theme.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Facial Rejuvenation Techniques

Background:

• The efficacy of SMASectomy facelifts is established, but open necklift outcomes are less reliable.
• Recurrent bands and deformities after open necklift necessitate technique modification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a modified SMASectomy facelift technique using a "low SMAS" approach as a substitute for direct necklift.
• To assess the long-term outcomes of this variation in facelift surgery.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 198 consecutive patients undergoing a laterally based SMASectomy facelift.
• Exclusion of patients who had concomitant full-face CO2 laser resurfacing.
• Follow-up ranged from 1 to 7 years post-surgery.

Main Results:

• The "low SMAS" technique successfully corrected all neck deformities.
• Patients experienced more rapid recovery compared to traditional direct necklift.
• No instances of nerve injury, skin compromise, or hypertrophic scarring were reported.

Conclusions:

• The "low SMAS" SMASectomy technique can effectively replace midline open necklift.
• This approach offers a reliable and safer alternative for neck rejuvenation.