3D Microscope Facelift: How Surgical ‘Precision’ Changes Outcomes

When consulting with women aged 50 to 70, I often hear a common story.

“It was fine at first, but over time, it sagged again.”

“The scar around my ear is too noticeable.”

“My expression has become awkward.”

Hearing about the experiences of acquaintances who had a facelift before often causes more worry than reassurance. These complaints often stem from the underlying issue: ‘how meticulously and precisely the surgery was performed.’ This is why one of the most frequently asked questions from patients these days is, “Is it really dissected accurately?” Today, I want to discuss this topic in simpler terms.

The Limitations of Traditional Facelifts: A Matter of Precision

A facelift doesn’t just pull the visible skin, but rather, it’s crucial to tighten the SMAS layer beneath the skin. Around the SMAS layer, there are thin and complex nerves and vessels related to facial expressions, which can lead to unexpected complications if not carefully dissected. Therefore, how ‘precisely’ the surgery is performed becomes a very important aspect.

In the past, a ‘loupe’ (magnifying glass) was used for better surgical visibility. I had also operated with a loupe for many years. Even though it offered a 2.5 to 5 times magnified view, it still left many unseen areas.

As time passed and the surgery lengthened, neck and shoulder fatigue would set in, making it difficult to maintain focus, which could impact the precision of the surgery. Additionally, because the view with the loupe was flat, it was challenging to accurately see deep areas, and the lighting couldn’t reach those depths, making visibility difficult. There were occasions when important nerves or vessels were almost touched.

When these issues accumulate, they can lead to less durable lifting results, unnatural expressions, and extended recovery times after surgery.

The Evolution of Facelifts: Utilizing 3D Microscopes

To overcome these limitations, the technology of 3D stereoscopic microscope surgery has been introduced. It’s not just a tool that enlarges the screen, but a technology that changes the surgical environment itself.

The 3D microscope enlarges the surgical area up to 20 times with a camera and displays it stereoscopically. The surgeon can now see the monitor view and identify the depth on both sides more accurately without tilting their head. It’s a feeling similar to watching a 3D movie where the actors seem to be right in front of you.

Since its introduction, even the thinnest vessels and nerves less than 1mm are clearly visible, allowing avoidance of these structures, and providing better protection while performing the surgery. Most importantly, the posture has become more comfortable, so the surgeon feels less fatigue and can maintain focus throughout the procedure.

This change translates into positive outcomes for patients as well.

Firstly, there is reduced concern about postoperative complications or recovery time. The chances of nerve damage decrease, which reduces the chance of unnatural facial expressions post-surgery, and less bleeding means noticeably less bruising or swelling. The recovery speed is also significantly faster.

Ultimately, the most important aspect of a facelift is how finely and safely the dissection is performed. Compared to my time operating with a loupe, the precision of surgeries has visibly improved since adopting the 3D microscope, and patients’ recovery processes have shown more stable patterns. If you are curious about this advanced surgical environment, feel free to seek assistance through counseling at MedithinQ.

With the finest precision unseen by the naked eye, we promise the best surgical outcomes with a 3D microscope.

Now, go for 3D SCOPEYE!