At Graper Harper Cosmetic Surgery, one of the top concerns we hear from patients is that they want their face to look younger, but not unnatural. This is an understandable concern because the stereotype of facelift creating a pulled look is somewhat based in reality — albeit outdated. Early versions of facelift primarily focused on removing excess skin from the lower face and pulling the remaining skin taut. This often left the patient’s face looking artificial and windswept.
Fortunately, facelift techniques have evolved significantly in the ensuing decades. By studying facial anatomy and refining their surgical skills, Dr. Garrett Harper and Robert Graper can produce facelift results that look natural and untouched.
SMAS
Nowadays, skilled plastic surgeons put more emphasis on manipulating the underlying tissue rather than the skin itself for appealing-looking rejuvenation. This approach involves making a tiny incision in the skin to gain access to the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic sheath), which is a layer of facial muscles, fat and fibrous tissue. Because signs of aging appear when the SMAS gets laxer, slight but deliberate adjustments to tighten this layer help to rejuvenate the face.
Deep Plane
In addition to lifting the SMAS layer, the deep plane technique reaches to tighten even deeper layers of facial muscles. Once pulled taut, these muscles relieve tension in the face and create a smoother, younger appearance. Though it is more invasive than SMAS, the deep plane technique is capable of more dramatic results and is especially good at enhancing the fullness of cheeks that have started to look gaunt.
Mini Facelift
Another option that produces natural results is the mini facelift. It specifically focuses on the laxity along the jawline, which rounds the bottom of the face. Plastic surgeons can eliminate the jowls and restore definition to the jawline. Patients enjoy mini facelift because it is less invasive and requires a shorter recovery. However, the results are subtle, and it is mainly intended for patients with early signs of aging. Those with more severe skin sagging on the face and neck are better served by a full facelift.
Make an Appointment with Charlotte’s Best Plastic Surgeons
Dr. Harper and Dr. Graper invite you to look at some of their before and after photos to see how these impressive facelift techniques help their patients to look like younger, better versions of themselves rather than someone with unnaturally pulled skin. To schedule a consultation and learn more about what facial rejuvenation procedures can do for you, please call 704.375.7111.