Facial surgery

MACS lift

A further modification of face lifting is a MACS (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) lift which uses sutures to tighten the SMAS layer rather than elevating it. The sutures can be placed to tighten the SMAS layer in the neck, lower cheek and upper cheek or mid face.

With the short scar face lift and MACS lift the scar in the temple is usually placed along the margin of the hair. To disguise the scar the incision is made obliquely so that hair will grow through the scar to disguise it in the future. Actual positioning of the scar will be discussed with you. A key consideration in determining the best position for scars is the thickness of your hair in the temple and how much movement of the hair line can be tolerated. By placing the scar within the hair excess tissue removed is hair bearing and the hair line will be moved upwards and backwards. By placing the scar along the margin of the hair the hair line is not displaced but the scar is more visible in the early stages following surgery.

Following a face lift the wounds are closed with a variety of sutures  and clips. Clips are used in the hair line to reduce damage to the hair follicles minimising hair loss around the scar. A drain may be used in the wound which is removed the day after surgery.