[Use of Harmonic blade in face lifting]

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Facial Rejuvenation Techniques

Background:

• Patients desire rapid recovery and return to social activities after facelift surgery.
• The Harmonic scalpel has shown promise in improving the postoperative period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Harmonic scalpel in improving recovery after facelift procedures.
• To assess the impact of the Harmonic scalpel on postoperative swelling and return to social life.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 920 facelift procedures performed between 2001 and May 2017.
• Exclusive use of the Harmonic scalpel for all procedures.

Main Results:

• Mean operative time: 110 minutes (SMAS plication only), 180 minutes (SMAS plication with submental approach).
• Majority of patients returned to normal social life by the 8th postoperative day.
• Significant reduction in postoperative ecchymosis and edema observed.

Conclusions:

• The Harmonic scalpel, when integrated into facelift procedures, significantly reduces postoperative complications.
• Facelift surgery using the Harmonic scalpel allows for a prompt return to normal social life.