Facelift
Facelifts involve removing excess skin and tightening the underlying muscles and tissues to create a smoother, more youthful appearance.
During a facelift, incisions are made along the hairline and around the ears, allowing the surgeon to access the underlying tissues. The skin is lifted, excess fat and tissue are removed, and the remaining skin is pulled taut and sutured into place. When you want a smoother, tighter appearance, the facelift is the gold standard.
Facelifts are typically performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours to complete. Recovery time varies depending on the individual patient and the extent of the procedure, but most patients can return to work and normal activities within two to three weeks.
Mid-face Procedures
Mid-face surgery is another surgical option for treating nasolabial folds. This procedure involves lifting and repositioning the tissues in the mid-face area for youthful volume.
During the procedure, incisions are made inside the mouth or along the lower lash line, allowing the surgeon to access the underlying tissues. The tissues are lifted and repositioned to create a more fresh and lifted appearance, and excess skin and fat may be removed.
Mid-face surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours to complete. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within two to three weeks.
Cheek Lift
This procedure is designed to lift and tighten the cheeks, which can help smooth out the folds and create a more youthful look. During a cheek lift, Dr. Sofonio will make incisions in your hairline and around your ears. He will then lift and reposition the underlying tissue and muscle, which can help to raise the cheeks and smooth out the skin.
A cheek lift can be done independently or with other procedures, such as a facelift or neck lift. Talking to Dr. Sofonio about your goals and concerns is vital to determine your best approach.
While a cheek lift can effectively address nasolabial folds, it's essential to have realistic expectations. This procedure can improve the appearance of your face, but it won't completely eliminate wrinkles or give you an entirely new appearance.
Excision
An alternative option for patients who desire to improve and reduce the nasolabial folds permanently is nasolabial fold excision. This surgical procedure removes excess skin and tissue in the nasolabial fold area. This procedure is typically reserved for cases where the nasolabial folds are very deep and pronounced.
During the procedure, incisions are made along the nasolabial folds, and excess skin and tissue are removed. The remaining skin is then sutured into place, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Nasolabial fold excision is typically performed under local anesthesia and can take several hours to complete. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks.