All Procedures
Midface Lift (Cheek Lift)
Useful information for patients on Midface Lifting procedures - rejuvenating cheek prominence for a youthful look.
What Is a Midface Lift?
A midface lift, also referred to as cheek lift, is a surgical procedure aimed to lift and tighten the central area of the face, particularly the cheeks and lower eyelids. It helps restore youthful volume and contour to the midface region, making it especially beneficial for patients with sagging or hollowed cheeks.
Depending on your anatomy and treatment goals, access may be through incisions inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival), combined with a lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or through a short facelift incision. The technique involves repositioning underlying tissues and removing or redraping excess skin to achieve natural elevation and support.
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, midface lifts are considered safe and effective. As with all surgery, potential risks should be discussed during consultation.
Who Is It for?
A midface lift may be considered by patients who:
- Notice sagging or hollowing of the cheeks.
- Have early aging changes around the lower eyelids and midface.
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations.
Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension or clotting disorders, may require further evaluation before undergoing surgery.
Preparation
Pre-surgery preparation usually includes:
- A detailed review of medical history and current medications.
- Smoking cessation.
- Temporary discontinuation of blood-thinning medications (e.g., antiplatelet or anticoagulants) about 1 week before surgery.
- A physical and ophthalmologic assessment.
Useful Information
Ensure you consider all aspects of a procedure. You can speak to your surgeon about these areas of the surgery in more detail during a consultation.
Length
How Long Is the Procedure?
The procedure takes about 2 hours.
Anesthesia
Do I Need Anesthesia?
Local anesthesia, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia may all be used, depending on the patient and surgical plan.
Inpatient/Outpatient
Is The Procedure Inpatient or Outpatient?
This is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
Additional Information
After the procedure, you may experience:
- Swelling, bruising and mild discomfort
- Excessive tearing
- Light sensitivity
- Temporary dryness of the eyes
- Scarring
- Hematoma (collection of blood beneath the skin)
- Infection
- Dry Eyes
- Ectropion or persistent “whitish reveal” of the lower eyelid
- Asymmetry
- Hair loss around incision sites
- Unfavorable scarring
- Possibility of revision surgery
- Rare visual disturbance
Topical eye ointment and cold compresses are usually recommended during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and irritation. Patients are advised to sleep with their head elevated for the first 2 nights and can generally shower the next day after surgery. Driving should generally be avoided during the initial days and contact lens usage can be resumed after approximately 2 weeks.
Stitches are usually removed after 1 week. Bruising and swelling tend to improve significantly within 2 weeks, and most patients feel ready to return to work and social activities within 5 to 10 days. Smoking should be avoided for at least 3 weeks to aid healing.
Final results are generally visible between 3 and 4 months post-surgery, once swelling has resolved and tissues have fully settled. While results are long-lasting, the natural aging process will continue over time. Sun protection and careful adherence to your surgeon’s aftercare advice will help maintain your results.
Please note: Individual results vary from patient to patient due to varying factors such as age, skin quality, bone structure, and overall health. To understand what results you can expect, please consult with a qualified aesthetic plastic surgeon.