Limitations of Traditional Facelifts: Why Precision Matters
When consulting with women in their 50s to 70s, I often hear common concerns.
“It was fine at first, but over time it sagged again.”
“The scars around my ears are too noticeable.”
“My facial expressions have become awkward.”
Hearing these reviews from friends who have undergone traditional facelift surgery has deepened their concerns. Such remarks always make me reconsider what is most important as a doctor. And that is ‘precision.’ These days, the most frequent question from patients is, “Is it precisely dissected?” Today, I would like to discuss that.
The core of facelift surgery lies in the meticulous dissection of the SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) below the skin and the upward repositioning of sagging tissues. The precision of this process can affect the naturalness of the results and the duration they last.
In the past, this process depended largely on a magnifying device called a ‘Loupes.’ I, too, have used loupes for a long time. This tool, with its limited magnification, requires prolonged concentration while looking down, which can increase the surgeon’s fatigue, potentially affecting surgical precision.
Such physical limitations can lead to subtle but significant differences in surgical outcomes. Reduced concentration might hinder the precise identification of micro-vessels or surrounding nerves during the dissection of the SMAS layer, raising the likelihood of complications. A patient who recently returned for a follow-up mentioned experiencing discomfort due to asymmetry of the corners of her mouth after a previous surgery. This is not necessarily an error by the surgeon; it could be the result of equipment limitations affecting precision.
A New Era of Facelift Surgery: Introduction of the 3D Microscope
Medical technology has continuously evolved to enhance precision, and recently, 3D microscopes have started being used in facelift surgeries. Unlike the loupes, which provided only simple magnification, 3D microscopes offer highly magnified three-dimensional views of the surgical area for more accurate insight.
The ability to maintain focus throughout the surgery without having to look down is a significant advantage. Most importantly, the three-dimensional high-magnification views help clearly identify previously hard-to-discern micro-vessels, nerve structures, and the depth of the SMAS layer.
The biggest change I’ve noticed using this 3D technology is the increased precision of the surgery. By clearly seeing nerves and vessels while dissecting, tissue damage is minimized, positively affecting the recovery process. With more precise handling of structures, the naturalness of the results has also improved.
Patients nowadays show interest by saying, “I’ve heard that surgeries done with precision yield better results now.” It seems that the focus has shifted from merely how much the skin is pulled to how precisely the surgery is performed.
The outcomes of the same surgery can vary depending on the perspective and method used. If you aim for natural and stable changes, considering the surgical method or approach might be beneficial.
What criteria would you use to choose your surgery?
In facelift surgery, what’s crucial isn’t merely ‘how much is pulled’ but ‘how precisely it is dissected.’ With 3D microscopes providing a clearer 3D view of the SMAS layer, I have begun to view the direction and standards of surgery differently. If you are considering surgery based on advanced technology, consulting about MedithinQ’s 3D microscope system-based methods might be a way to explore.
The microscopic details that can’t be seen with the naked eye, promise the best surgical outcomes with a 3D microscope.
Now, do it with 3D SCOPEYE!
