MACS Face Lift Surgery

MACS Facelift surgery is a procedure aimed at reducing the effects of aging through the repositioning of the skin and muscles around the face and neck area. The procedure is generally the preference of those who wish to remove wrinkles which appear as the skin ages. This may cause the patient to look younger, whilst also offering a solution to those who feel unsatisfied with the appearance of looser skin, and less defined facial structure. The MACS lift, sometimes known as a Short Scar Lift, is a less invasive procedure than a traditional face lift.

When considering face lift surgery there are a number of variations which to consider. The choice of procedure may well be affected by factors such as the degree of correction necessary, the facial structure of the patient, and the preferences of the consultant and the patient.

The MACS lift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) or Short Scar Facelift is a relatively new procedure, giving many of the benefits of a traditional facelift but with less scarring and downtime. The incision is an inverted "L" shape and lies in the temple hair line and extends down in front of the ear. Three deep suspension stitches hold the facial structures in their new position, excess skin is removed and a small drain left in place over night.

The procedure takes around 2.5 to 3 hours under general anaesthetic and most patients are discharged home the following morning with an elastic head dressing for support.

Skin stitches are removed around 5 days later and the patient is subsequently seen as an out patient. This has now become a very popular operation for younger patients and those who are apprehensive about under going a full neck and face lift.

Preparation

Before undergoing MACS facelift surgery consideration and preparation are vital elements. Those who are considering the procedure should clearly outline their targets, and openly discuss this with their consultant. Those who are considering the procedure should be aware of the risks and complications that can arise, as well as the practical changes that are needed prior to surgery. Patients are required to stop taking medication which alters blood viscosity; including aspirin, birth control and hormone correction. In preparation of surgery it is also highly recommended that patients avoid smoking, to enhance recovery times and aid wound healing.

After the operation

Following the surgery, a support bandage is applied to the face in order to reduce the risk of Haematoma (clotted blood) in the wound. The patient will then spend a period in recovery of around one hour to ensure that no bleeding has occurred. The patient is then transferred to the ward for an over night stay.

Once home it is recommended to rest in an upright position whilst avoiding movement in the neck. Those who choose to under go the procedure are restricted to a liquid diet and will need to use ice packs to reduce swelling.

Patients are prescribed with antibiotics for several days to ensure no infection occurs. The remaining stitches will be removed within five to seven days, whilst a full recovery can be expected after 2 - 4 weeks.

Recovering from MACS facelift surgery

• Patients should avoid smoking as well as any exposure to passive smoking prior to and after the procedure.
• Consumption should be reserved to liquids until twenty four hours after the operation.
• Post surgery the patient should remain in an upright position for twenty four hours to avoid any unnecessary strain on the face.

For the large majority of adults who under go a MACS facelift surgery the results will be a success with no unforeseen consequences. Despite this, the capacity for risks and complications remain, as is the case for almost all surgical procedures.

Risks and complications

• Swelling and pain may affect one side of the face as a result of a Haematoma. This will usually occur within forty eight hours of surgery and may require the reopening of the wound.
• MACS Face lift surgery may also cause nerve damage, affecting the patient's ability to demonstrate facial expression. This is unlikely to cause lasting damage beyond six months.
• Infection is risk associated with this surgical procedure.
• Facelift surgery can cause permanent scarring.
• As a result of the incision, hair loss may occur on rare occasions. In these instances it is likely that any loss will be restricted to the incision line.
• Some patients may temporarily have tightness when opening their mouths.

By nature, all medical procedures carry an element of risk. While the majority of patients do not experience any complications during our MACS facelift procedures, before embarking on any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult fully with the McLean Academy so that our qualified staff can suitably discuss any risk or concerns that your procedure may pose.