Endoscopic Facelift
- Procedures
- Face
- Endoscopic Facelift
Evidence Based
For candidates who desire a minimally invasive solution to sagging brows and cheeks, an endoscopic facelift may be the answer. An endoscopic facelift allows patients to achieve tighter, younger looking facial features without the extensive scars of a traditional facelift, still allowing the surgeon adequate visualization of the structure of the face.
E
Written By: Erin Storm, PA-C
Article History
Procedure Overview
Concerns
Ideal Candidate
Recovery
Side Effects
Results
Average Cost
Pros
- Hidden Incisions
- Less Scarring
- Quicker Recovery
Cons
- Does Not Address Neck Skin
- Does Not Address Jowls
- Does Not Remove Excess Skin
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
The Skinny
Average Recovery
10 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Surgical Procedure
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$7700 - $20000
The Specifics
What is an endoscopic facelift?
An endoscopic facelift is a facelift surgery technique performed by a plastic surgeon that is less invasive than a traditional facelift surgery such as an SMAS facelift. Smaller incisions, and the use of an endoscope (lighted camera), allow a plastic surgeon to visualize internal structures without the invasiveness of a full facelift surgery. This technique shortens recovery time and lessens noticeable scarring, however, it also does not allow for excess skin and loose skin removal.
What cosmetic concerns does an endoscopic facelift procedure treat?
Facial Skin Laxity: Smaller incisions and an endoscope allow a plastic surgeon to alter underlying muscle and excess fat tissue through an endoscopic facelift to create more youthful contours and refresh a tired/aged appearance.
Who is the ideal candidate for an endoscopic facelift procedure?
The ideal candidate for an endoscopic facelift is middle aged with moderate signs of aging and skin sagging who has realistic expectations of the facelift surgery. An endoscopic facelift is not recommended for those with more pronounced signs of aging who would benefit from a more traditional facelift surgery.
What is the average recovery associated with an endoscopic facelift procedure?
Most of the acute bruising, swelling, and discomfort following an endoscopic facelift subsides within two weeks. Sutures and dressings are removed after one week. Most patients return to work after two weeks, and resume all activity after six weeks.
To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to facelift recovery.
What are the potential side effects of an endoscopic facelift procedure?
Possible side effects following an endoscopic facelift include swellings, bruising, bleeding, pain, numbness, nerve injury, facial asymmetry, and prolonged edema.
What can someone expect from the results of an endoscopic facelift procedure?
The results of an endoscopic facelift are immediately visible following the procedure. Candidates can expect the long-term natural looking results to last for 10 to 15 years depending on continued aging, use, sun exposure, and gravity.
What is the average cost of an endoscopic facelift procedure?
An endoscopic facelift procedure can cost anywhere from $7,700 to $20,000. The actual cost of an Endoscopic Facelift is dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of a facelift.
Pros
- Hidden Incisions
- Less Scarring
- Quicker Recovery
Cons
- Does Not Address Neck Skin
- Does Not Address Jowls
- Does Not Remove Excess Skin
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
An endoscopic facelift allows for smaller incisions without compromising visualization by using intraoperative cameras. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an endoscopic facelift.
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation
- Multiple incisions made above and behind ears, behind hairline
- Endoscopes inserted for visualization
- Facial muscles tightened
- Sutures to close incisions
Immediately After Treatment
- Face is swollen and bruised
- Face is wrapped in postoperative garment and worn continuously for 1 week
1-14 Days After Treatment
- Face is swollen and bruised for 12 days
- Turn head by moving shoulders, not the neck
- Limit jaw movement
- Take antibiotics and pain medication as prescribed
- Return to work after 7-10 days
2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Most patients able to resume normal activity
- Resume light exercise after 3 weeks
- Strenuous activity resumed after 6 weeks
Result Notes
- Noticeable immediately after surgery
- Long lasting however not permanent
- Last for 5-10 years
- Results affected by continued aging and gravity
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation
- Multiple incisions made above and behind ears, behind hairline
- Endoscopes inserted for visualization
- Facial muscles tightened
- Sutures to close incisions
Immediately After Treatment
- Face is swollen and bruised
- Face is wrapped in postoperative garment and worn continuously for 1 week
1-14 Days After Treatment
- Face is swollen and bruised for 12 days
- Turn head by moving shoulders, not the neck
- Limit jaw movement
- Take antibiotics and pain medication as prescribed
- Return to work after 7-10 days
2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Most patients able to resume normal activity
- Resume light exercise after 3 weeks
- Strenuous activity resumed after 6 weeks
Result Notes
- Noticeable immediately after surgery
- Long lasting however not permanent
- Last for 5-10 years
- Results affected by continued aging and gravity
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation
- Multiple incisions made above and behind ears, behind hairline
- Endoscopes inserted for visualization
- Facial muscles tightened
- Sutures to close incisions
Immediately After Treatment
- Face is swollen and bruised
- Face is wrapped in postoperative garment and worn continuously for 1 week
1-14 Days After Treatment
- Face is swollen and bruised for 12 days
- Turn head by moving shoulders, not the neck
- Limit jaw movement
- Take antibiotics and pain medication as prescribed
- Return to work after 7-10 days
2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Most patients able to resume normal activity
- Resume light exercise after 3 weeks
- Strenuous activity resumed after 6 weeks
Result Notes
- Noticeable immediately after surgery
- Long lasting however not permanent
- Last for 5-10 years
- Results affected by continued aging and gravity
The Takeaway
An endoscopic facelift is a type of cosmetic surgery surgical technique in which smaller incisions and an endoscopic camera allow a plastic surgeon to perform alterations to underlying muscle and excess fat without the invasiveness of a traditional facelift surgery. This type of surgical procedure produces significant facial rejuvenation and restores a more youthful appearance.
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