Band Aid Face-Lift: A Simple Nip & Tuck

There at those of you who just don't "need" a full face/neck lift procedure. My job as Plastic Surgeon is to introduce you to options you might not have thought of, and assist you in choosing what you'll be comfortable with. Realistic expectations will keep us out of gullible alley - and can help us explore new avenues.

For example, the "band aid face-lift". Everyone knows that a "formal" face/neck lift requires an incision hidden in the crease along the front of the ear, extending snuggly behind the ear and then carried back into the camouflage of the hair. Most folks don't know (or don't wanna know!) that through this incision, the face and neck skin are "lifted" and naturally "redraped" (with or without fat sculpturing and muscle work) to achieve the full youthful effect.

The Bandaid approach is limited to simply making the incision in front of the ear, and removing an ellipse of surplus skin only. This procedure is not for everyone, and will not replace the "full deal"! However, it is most useful for "beginners" who have minimal face skin excess and the start of jowling. It does nothing for the fatty neck, which can also be addressed through this incision for fat sculpting (the full blown "turkey waddle" neck skin/muscle excess however is best treated through the formal incision behind the ears and under the chin).

It can also be useful for those seeking "maintenance and up keeping" after a "Formal" lift- as a bridge before the next full procedure (again with the same limitations). And because there's no surgical skin lifting ("undermining") additional skin resurfacing procedures can be done at the same time for wrinkle reduction. the advantages of the "bandaid" procedure are: it's done in the office with little more than local anesthesia, usually takes less than an hour, and healing time is minimal. The best part is that it doesn't burn any bridges when a full face-neck lift procedure becomes indicated. A "bandaid" is all that's needed to camouflage the incision in front of the ears.

We are learning that when appropriately indicated, changes need not be overwhelming. Best for the New Year.

Fredric M. Barr, M.D. F.A.C.S., Certified by the American Board of Plactic Surgery, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Voluntary Assistant Professor Plastic Surgery University of Miami.

Call for appointment 561-833-4122 or email FMBARRMD@aol.com