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A second look at the second-look technique in face lifts
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Ariz, USA.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|December 1, 1995
Summary
The "second-look" technique does not significantly reduce hematoma risk after facelift surgery when meticulous hemostasis and specific epinephrine infiltration are used. This finding impacts surgical protocols for preventing facelift complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Hematoma is a significant complication following facelift surgery, potentially leading to poor outcomes.
- Preventive strategies include various hemostatic techniques and the "second-look" procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the "second-look" technique in preventing postoperative hematoma after facelift surgery.
Main Methods:
- A series of 82 facelifts were performed using a modified Marcaine/epinephrine infiltration technique without the "second-look" procedure.
- Comparison of hematoma incidence with historical data using the "second-look" technique.
Main Results:
- The modified technique without the "second-look" procedure resulted in a 7.3% incidence of hematoma formation.
- This incidence is comparable to the 6.7% rate previously observed with the "second-look" technique.
Conclusions:
- The "second-look" technique offers no significant advantage over meticulous hemostasis and specific epinephrine infiltration in preventing facelift hematomas.
- Optimized hemostasis and anesthetic techniques are crucial for minimizing this complication.