Endoscopic face lift
A new revolutionary technique for facial rejuvenation was developed in the US in 1992. Long skin incisions were replaced by tiny access incisions that allowed insertion of optical surgical instruments for tissue manipulations down to the deepest layers. Optical cavity created by these instruments and external anatomical landmarks served as a guidance during the facelift. Stigmata of traditional facelift techniques, i.e. incisions from ear to ear along the hairline and lateral incisions placed behind or in front of the ear, thus were avoided.
Apart from rejuvenating effect, endoscopic technique allows improvement of some facial features, making a youthful appearance even more aesthetically pleasing. Young men and women aged between 33 and 36 y.o. benefit from endoscopic revision of minor facial changes that normally occur at this time but patients can hardly put their finger on them.
In older patients with marked age-related changes endoscopic face lifts are performed in conjunction with liposculpture or other techniques that allow rejuvenation without obvious signs of an operation.
This is a truly revolutionary technology in plastic surgery.
Its fascinating opportunities are appealing to patients, so even though this technology is rather difficult to master and it relies on rather costly equipment, the increasing number of surgeons worldwide are gradually incorporating it into their practices.
Endoscopic techniques can be applied both to the whole face and to its specific areas. For instance, endoscopic forehead lift is commonly combined with SMAS lift (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) of the mid-face.
Recovery after endoscopic face lift is quicker than after SMAS lift.
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