Facelift and Aging Process

During the aging process, certain facial characteristics will change in the central and lower third area of the face. A younger mid-face is typically characterized by prominent cheeks and a fluid transition between the lower eyelids in cheek area.  A youthful lower face is typified by a soft jaw line without "jowling" or excessive fat accumulation and loose skin.

The downward transition changes the volume of soft tissue in the face. Smiling and repeated animation of the face, along with gravity affects the soft tissues and the small muscles in the face. With the help of an MRI. We have found that the small muscles themselves remain intact, but the overlying soft tissue does become affected and the skin interface will change with time.

A young person's face has a Malar fat pad that is positioned above the zygomatic bone. The Malar fat pad is triangular in shape and runs along the edge of the nasolabial fold.

As we age, the malar fat pad (which is beneath your skin and subcutaneous fat) begins to slide down and a little bit forward. With time, gravity pulls the fat pad down from the zygomatic arch and locates itself in a lower position on your face. Because it may present a lump to in this new area, it creates the appearance of droopy or saggy skin.

With proper rejuvenation through a facelift or facial plastic procedure. We are essentially moving these functions back to their original anatomy, which gives you a more natural and youthful parents. The key to a facelift or rhytidectomy is the repositioning of the Malar fat pad to a more vertical position.