June 4, 2002
WINK-TV


A top concern for anyone considering a face lift is looking natural--that is why more plastic surgeons are learning to do "mid-facelift" procedures.

Although technically difficult, when done right a "mid-facelift" restores a persons natural beauty and can be done on younger patients. But, the key is, when done right.

When surgeons do a "mid-facelift" they cut much more deeply into the muscle tissue of the face. This allows them to pull the muscles up around the nose and up the cheeks, moving the mid-portion of the face and securing it higher up. Many surgeons feel it provides a more natural look. For that reason, the "mid-facelift" has grown tremendously popular. But some say the procedure is complicated, problematic, and "iffy" at best.

Dr. Richard Maloney, a facial plastic surgeon in Naples, says that's not exactly accurate. He's been perfecting the technique since 1992 and says when in the hands of a skilled facial surgeon, nothing looks better than a "mid-facelift". But here's the catch, Dr. Maloney says only surgeons who work mostly on the face or who have extensive experience with the equipment and extensive training should be doing it.

Facing facts: nowadays patients are demanding a more natural look and so surgeons everywhere are scrambling to learn the "mid-facelift" procedure, but whether done right depends on the surgeon you choose. So, choose wisely.

Some surgeons will say they are experienced in a procedure when they're not--that's why it's important to ask around, consult friends and others who've had work done. Go to seminars and compare doctors.

When done incorrectly a "mid-facelift" can distort the face or damage facial nerves.