What is check-lifting (chick-lifting), what are the advantages of the procedure?

What effect can be achieved by doing a check-lifting (chick-lifting), what is it? These questions are probably of interest to many people. Over the years, wrinkles appear on the skin, its elasticity decreases, it becomes flabby, and ptosis occurs.

These are simple signs of skin aging. Women react especially emotionally to such aesthetic defects. But in the modern world there are many different methods of restoring youth and improving appearance.

One of these techniques is check-lifting the face. What is it, is the procedure effective, what before and after photos can you find on the Internet? It is worth understanding these issues.

Anatomy of the zygomatic part of the face

The cheekbone area is of great importance in the formation of the “beauty triangle”. This “figure” of attractiveness is located in the area between the chin and cheekbones. The epidermis on them is quite elastic and elastic. This allows them to look crisp and tall. On young faces, there is a natural, characteristic depression under the cheekbones.

Cheekbones and their appearance mean a lot to girls

With age, tissue volume begins to decrease, which causes the appearance of wrinkles, furrows and small folds. Gravity affects the drooping of the cheekbone line, loss of skin elasticity and sagging. All this is the reason that the “beauty triangle” becomes an “inversion”. Simultaneously with these processes, skin collects in the chin area, which gives the person a tired and flabby appearance, he seems suffering and sad. The following changes may also occur:

• bruises, bags and swelling form under the eyes;
• ptosis and soft tissue changes are noticeable in this area of ​​the face;
• a nasolacrimal groove appears, nasolabial folds are more pronounced;
• malar lymphostasis forms, which cannot be eliminated even with the help of hardware techniques and diuretics;
• cheekbones and the area around them become denser;
• water stagnates in the middle zone of the face;
• Many pronounced facial wrinkles form in the periorbital region.

Many negative changes can appear on the face

Note! The use of check-lifting helps eliminate ptosis of the soft structures of the midface and the other side effects listed above that arise due to its appearance. This surgical intervention can be perfectly combined with front lifting and blepharoplasty.

Indications for use

A check-lift of the face allows you to achieve a positive effect without complex surgery. This procedure is intended for people aged 35-50 years.

With its help you can get rid of a number of age-related changes in the facial area. The procedure is recommended in certain situations.

INDICATIONS

• if the corners of the lips, eyebrows, cheeks droop, bags appear under the eyes;
• if the skin becomes loose, nasolabial folds form;
• if you need to change the shape of your eyes;
• when the lower eyelid turns out;
• if the elasticity of the skin has decreased.

With this procedure you can rejuvenate your face, remove wrinkles, and add elasticity to your skin.

What do you need to know about the operation?

By check-lifting we mean plastic correction of the face in the middle third. Very often this type of intervention is performed simultaneously with blepharoplasty. This combination of procedures is advantageous in that both types of surgery can be performed through just one incision.

During the procedure, lipid tissue is redistributed, excess epidermis is removed (if required), facial skin is lifted and the elasticity of the epidermis is restored. For all patients, specialists select an individual type of pain relief. Often, in order not to overload the body with anesthesia, anesthesiologists prefer to use local anesthetics. However, if there is a large amount of work to be done, then specialists can also use general anesthesia. It is also used for pain relief when local anesthetics cannot be used.

The operation involves working with the middle third party

The duration of surgery can be from half an hour to two hours. During this period of time, the remaining lipid tissue is redistributed, unnecessary excess skin is removed, and muscle fibers are shortened. Check lifting is a procedure with minimal risks. In some cases, lower eyelid inversion may occur, but this is rare.

The difference between a cheek lift and a circular facelift

The main difference between a traditional facelift and cheek lift surgery is that a cheek lift is designed to restore volume to the cheekbones and cheeks for a more youthful appearance, while a facelift is designed to reduce excess tissue and smoothen the contours of the skin. Additionally, a facelift primarily addresses the lower face, neck, and jawline rather than the cheeks or midface.

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Indications and contraindications for check-lifting

The procedure is recommended when:

• sagging cheeks and eyebrow arches;
• decreased skin elasticity in the midface;
• the appearance of folds and wrinkles, bags under the lower eyelids, as well as tear grooves;
• reduction in the volume of the cheeks in the cheekbone area and the appearance of smoothing bags under the cheekbone;
• formation of pronounced nasolabial folds;
• low tone of the periorbital eye muscles and decreased elasticity of the lower eyelids;
• the appearance of a “round eye” or inversion of the lower eyelid.

There are certain indications for check-lifting

Check-lifting should not be carried out in the following cases:

• diabetes mellitus and other endocrine diseases;
• skin rash on the face that causes inflammation;
• foci of purulent inflammatory processes on the body;
• blood clotting pathologies;
• chronic increase in blood pressure;
• pulmonary or heart failure;
• acute infections, cancer;
• epilepsy attacks and relapses of chronic diseases;
• high intraocular pressure;
• the use of glucocorticoids for the treatment of chronic diseases.

Contraindications should be taken into account

Note! After 50 years, the contractility of the skin and soft tissues is greatly reduced, so cosmetologists recommend comprehensive facial skin correction. However, the presence of the above conditions may serve as a reason to refuse surgery.

Anti-aging midface

Plastic surgeons have developed a modern surgical technique for eliminating problems on the face by reducing the manifestations of aging of the facial skin by tightening the skin in the mentioned area - the so-called check-lifting.

Not everyone knows what a check lift is. This is a rather complex operation, which is performed under general anesthesia. Surgery lasts from 45 minutes to 2 hours.

A professional cosmetologist will tell you more about the purpose of check-lifting:

The doctor makes a small incision in the skin under the eyelashes along the edges of the lower eyelids in the area of ​​natural folds. This technique allows you to avoid injuries.

Then surgeons begin manipulation, strengthening the muscle structures in the lower eyelid area. At the same time, the muscles of the cheeks shift, and when the skin is tightened, its elasticity is partially restored, and age-related hollows disappear.

This method uses endoscopic equipment, which avoids trauma to most of the facial skin. The endoscope allows you to avoid postoperative complications such as:

1. Development of a “round” eye after surgery.
2. The occurrence of inversion of the lower eyelids.
3. Changing the shape of the patient's eyes. Occurs when using conventional surgical instruments to tighten the skin on the face.

The advantages that this lifting method provides compared to the operation with conventional instruments are the following:

1. The patient recreates the natural appearance that he had in his youth.
2. After the operation, the person has no complications or visible scars.
3. If for some reason the patient cannot undergo general anesthesia, then the operation can be performed under local anesthesia.
4. The postoperative period is short.
5. The effect of such a facelift, compared to traditional methods, lasts for a longer period (from 5 to 7 years).

The cost of a check-lift depends on the clinic and region and is quite high - from 75,000 rubles, but on average the price of a check-lift is 120,000-150,000 rubles.

Carrying out the operation

The operation is preceded by long preparation. It is necessary in order to determine the main directions of intervention to assess the scale of the operation and select appropriate techniques. Initially, a consultation with a plastic surgeon is necessary so that he can outline the incision area, examine the condition of the skin and assess the amount of work.

You need to prepare for surgery in advance

Once the surgeon determines what type of lift will need to be performed, you will need to meet with the anesthesiologist. This is worth doing in order to select the type of anesthesia and choose an anesthetic drug. Taking tests will provide an overall picture that will correspond to the patient’s health. Using the test results, it will be possible to assess the correctness of the choice of anesthesia and preliminarily adjust it.

Based on the test results, the question of whether to perform an operation is decided.

After consultation with the above specialists, as well as a therapist, the patient receives a medical opinion on the possibility of plastic surgery. You can contact the clinic with this conclusion and test results.

Methodology

The operation can be performed either under general anesthesia or using local anesthesia. The choice depends on the wishes of the client, his state of health, the duration of the intervention and the volume of problem areas.

On average, the operation takes about 40 – 100 minutes.

The check-lifting algorithm is quite simple:

1. A miniature incision is made along the lower eyelid line.
2. An endoscope and a surgical instrument are inserted into the puncture.
3. The muscles are tightened, returning to their natural position.
4. Subcutaneous fatty tissue is redistributed, its excess is carefully removed.
5. Endotin fixatives are installed.
6. Cosmetic sutures are placed at the incision sites.

Rehabilitation period

The recovery period after surgery is very fast. This is due to the fact that endoscopic equipment allows a very small incision to be made. The rehabilitation period takes no more than 3 weeks. This time is enough for the swelling to disappear and the hematomas to resolve. The check-lifting procedure gives the following effects:

• restores skin elasticity;
• removes facial wrinkles;
• corrects tear ducts;
• returns previous facial features;
• reduces the severity of bags and hernias under the eyes and in the cheekbone area.

Rehabilitation does not take long

Advantages and disadvantages

The popularity of check-lifting among women is easily explained by the many advantages of this procedure over others.

These positive differences are:

• absence of postoperative scars;
• fairly low risk of developing complications in the future;
• short rehabilitation period;
• there is no need to use general anesthesia (although it is possible);
• duration of the result.

There are no serious disadvantages to this operation, but for each individual patient they may still exist.

The high cost of the procedure is not suitable for some; other clients remain dissatisfied after the intervention of an inexperienced surgeon.

To reduce the risk of complications and other troubles after a facelift, you need to carefully choose a doctor and not skimp on the procedure. So the presence of deficiencies in check-lifting becomes a multiple of zero.

How and for what purpose is facial lipofilling performed and the rehabilitation period after the procedure. Come here to find out how much Dysport injections cost.

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Complications

Since check-lifting is a surgical intervention, it can be fraught with many complications.

The appearance of hematomas and bleeding . Injury to the capillaries can cause hematomas. Small hematomas go away on their own, but large ones must be removed surgically.

Swelling . A common result of surgical intervention in the facial area. When swelling occurs, the permeability of blood vessels is of great importance. A significant portion of the liquid component of the blood penetrates through their vascular surface. Usually the swelling disappears on its own, but if it lingers, then this indicates a serious complication. There is a need for immediate consultation with a surgeon.

As a rule, facial surgery leads to swelling

Wound suppuration and infection . This kind of complications develops due to the appearance of necrosis or hematomas, as well as violation of the rules of antiseptics and septics. Treatment is carried out using antibacterial therapy.

Eversion of the lower eyelid . It occurs when the eyelid is turned downward excessively; with this complication, the eyelids are not able to close completely, and the person may feel dry eyes. This phenomenon can occur when too much skin is removed. The problem can be solved with one more operation.

Eversion of the lower eyelid

The appearance of keloid or hypertrophied scars . If during the operation the edges of the wound were incorrectly adjusted or the sutures were applied with more tension than necessary, then a keloid scar could appear. Another reason for the appearance of such a defect is a predisposition to the appearance of keloid formations. This problem can be solved by repeated surgery or traditionally, using massage or gymnastic exercises for the eye muscles.

Deformation of the eye shape . This problem is caused either by the removal of a large amount of skin or by overstretching of the skin. This complication can only arise as a result of unprofessional actions of a plastic surgeon. It is very difficult to correct incorrect eye shape. In some cases, even repeated surgery cannot correct the situation.

The appearance of a “round eye”. This problem can occur due to disruption of the orbicularis oculi muscle, excessive removal of skin, and also due to cicatricial changes in the epidermis. This effect can be prevented by performing special gymnastic exercises for the eyes during the rehabilitation period.

"Round Eye"

Side effects and complications

Despite minor injuries, check lifting is still a surgical operation, so consequences and complications cannot be completely excluded, although this happens extremely rarely. Unpleasant symptoms include:

• swelling (this is an inevitable side effect that usually disappears after 1-3 weeks, but if a month later the defect has not disappeared, you cannot do without the help of a cosmetologist);
• infection in the epidermal tissue (complications can occur due to the fault of an inexperienced surgeon; you will have to take a course of antibacterial drugs);
• the appearance of hematomas (often they go away in just a week).

These are all the unpleasant surprises that can await women after surgery.

Additional procedures

After the sutures are removed, the first stage of the recovery period can be considered complete. After this, surgeons may recommend that their patients resort to additional cosmetic procedures that promote rapid wound healing and eliminate side effects.

Microcurrent therapy. Increases skin elasticity and tone, accelerates wound healing.

Ultrasonic massage . Relieves swelling, accelerates metabolism and blood circulation, prevents stagnant moisture in the intercellular space.

Thermolysis . Used to get rid of scars.

Check-lifting can be combined with other procedures

Peculiarities

The middle zone of the face is directly related to facial expressions. Therefore, due to the high mobility of this area, age-related changes occur there first.

Most often, aging of facial skin begins precisely in the middle zone and the areas adjacent to it. These age-related changes give the face a tired appearance. To solve these problems, check-lifting is used.

The operation is a skin tightening procedure in the mid area. This operation is a complex one. It is performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure is on average 60 minutes.

Neck lift

With age, there is a loss of skin tone, firmness and elasticity.

Incisions are made in natural folds, which makes the procedure less traumatic and also prevents the formation of visible scars and scars. After skin tightening, manipulations are performed to strengthen the muscles in the eye area and shift the cheek muscles. This allows you to restore skin elasticity.

The operation is performed using an endoscope, so the likelihood of complications or changes in the shape of the eyes is minimal. To fix tissues in the required position, special plates made of biocompatible materials are used.

Their use makes it possible to fix stretched tissues so that the tension is distributed evenly. After a year, the plates dissolve, and the tissues take root in the required position.

Alternative methods

As alternative procedures for lifting the middle third of the face, you can perform:

Radiofrequency tightening - the skin surface is treated with low-frequency radio waves, which can reduce elongated fibers of the epidermis and increase the elasticity of facial muscles.

Thread lifting is a technique that allows lifting by implanting special biodegradable threads into the skin.

A course of myostimulating sessions - various mesotherapy procedures activate regenerative processes in the skin, and thanks to myostimulation, muscle tissue is activated. The combination of these techniques gives a noticeable tightening effect.

There are alternatives to check lifting

What do you need to know before choosing?

Despite the fact that the procedure is safe, there are some subtleties. There are three types of devices. Monopolar ones are among the most powerful. They have a deep impact and are used only once. When used, a high-frequency current is created that heats the tissue to a temperature of 60 degrees. Due to the risk of damage, devices of this class are rarely used.

Bipolars are soft. With their help, individual areas are treated, the depth of impact is insignificant. To obtain a good result, a longer course will be required, but there is less chance of side effects and complications.

A new word in the world of cosmetology is tripolar lifting. It involves the use of several electrodes, with the help of which the poles are regularly changed within one procedure. Thanks to this, energy enters different layers of the skin. It is used as an auxiliary procedure after liposuction and plastic surgery. It accelerates collagen synthesis and is part of weight loss programs.

Popular questions

Should check-lifting procedures be performed on young girls?

The procedure can be performed if there are congenital pathologies of the eyelids. Otherwise, as a rule, there is no need for young girls to undergo chin-lifting.

Is it true that it is possible to speed up the recovery period and enhance the effect of the procedure using cosmetic procedures?

Yes, some cosmetic procedures can quickly get rid of bruises and swelling and restore the condition of the skin. Laser, ultrasound and microcurrent procedures provide good results. Biorevitalization and mesotherapy also give good results.

Can speed up recovery after surgery

When are stitches removed?

A week after the procedure, the stitches can be removed. But nowadays, surgeons prefer to use self-absorbable sutures. In this case, you need to wait until they dissolve.

Question answer

This operation is also allowed for young girls if there are congenital developmental disorders of the eyelids.
Indeed, some manipulations can improve the condition of the skin, help eliminate swelling and bruises faster. These are ultrasound, microcurrent therapy, laser. You can also go for mesotherapy and biorevitalization.

Sutures are removed by the end of the first week. But absorbable threads are often used. In this case, you should wait until they dissolve, after which the doctor will eliminate the threads that stick out.

Pros of check-lifting

The peculiarity of the check-lifting procedure is the reproduction of natural facial features. Correcting defects allows a person to relive his youth and feel reborn. This effect gives the following results:

1. Eliminates malar edema and tear trough.
2. Produces lifting of eyelids and cheeks.
3. Eliminates the severity of nasolabial folds.
4. The procedure reduces the risk of eyelid inversion.
5. The face retains natural facial expressions and features.
6. The possibility of scarring is minimal.
7. The muscle tissue of the eyelids is strengthened, which makes it possible to avoid deformation of the natural shape of the eyes.
8. The low level of trauma and the possibility of using local anesthetics allows the procedure to be performed even for those patients for whom general anesthesia is not recommended. The recovery process in the postoperative period consists of taking painkillers.
9. The effect of the operation lasts for a long time. For 5–7 years, the patient will enjoy a fresh and youthful appearance and toned facial features.

The procedure has many advantages

Important! However, it is worth keeping in mind that the safety of surgery and the quality of the recovery period can only be guaranteed by highly qualified specialists in the field of plastic surgery. The quality of the equipment and drugs used, as well as compliance with sanitary standards, is of great importance.

How long does the effect of check-lifting last?

As mentioned earlier, the long-lasting effect of check-lifting is the advantage of this procedure:

• As a rule, the effect lasts quite a long time. Experts say 5-10 years , depending on the characteristics of the body, the general health of the patient and, of course, facial skin care.
• If care is not carried out properly, the effect may last significantly less.
• Also, the effect may last much less if the doctor made mistakes during surgery or if serious complications arose after the operation.

Medical recommendations

Experts recommend adhering to the following rules to promote skin healing and regeneration processes:

1. Protect your facial skin from temperature changes. The operation performed in summer or winter does not allow street walks during the first week after the procedure. The recovery period should take place in a home environment.
2. It is unacceptable to make sudden forward bends or other similar movements. Running and other activities are also not recommended.
3. For a week after the procedure, you need to sleep in a semi-lying position. The face should always be directed upward. If these rules are not followed, the seams may come apart.
4. In the first month after a check-lift, it is forbidden to expose your face to direct sunlight or visit a solarium. Ultraviolet radiation can cause pigmentation.
5. In order not to provoke swelling, it is necessary to reduce fluid intake.

For a speedy recovery, you need to follow the doctor's recommendations

In addition to strictly following all the above rules, you can speed up the recovery process by using cosmetics. They can be used as ointments, gels and creams with a regenerating effect. If possible, it is worth trying some cosmetological techniques that also improve the regenerative functions of the skin.

How is recovery going?

The rehabilitation period takes about 1-1.5 months. At this time, there is slight swelling on the face and bruising in the intervention area, so it is recommended to take a vacation until the consequences of the operation disappear.

If we consider the rehabilitation schedule by day, we can distinguish several main stages:

1. The first day the patient is left in the hospital to monitor his condition after recovery from anesthesia.
2. For the first week, you need to take painkillers and antibiotics, and treat the skin with antiseptics.
3. After 5-7 days, the sutures dissolve and excess threads are removed.

It is important to rest more, not be nervous and eat well. In a few weeks, the swelling will disappear from your face and you will see the results.

In the first months, any thermal procedures, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, peelings, or facial massage are strictly prohibited. Cosmetic products should not be used until the skin is completely restored. Do not get carried away with physical exercise, especially bending.

How to speed up rehabilitation

To shorten the long recovery period, it is recommended to resort to auxiliary procedures. To relieve swelling and accelerate tissue regeneration, you can do the following:

• microcurrent influence;
• fractional thermolysis;
• ultrasonic influence;
• mesotherapy;
• biorevitalization.

Patient reviews

Check-lifting is considered the most effective minimally invasive intervention today. This is confirmed by numerous patient reviews. They claim that other procedures did not give the same long-lasting results that could last even many years after the operation. Photos taken after the procedure clearly demonstrate the high effectiveness of check-lifting and can disarm even the most ardent opponent of plastic correction. The results obtained look so natural that you can believe in the transformation through a miracle.

Today this procedure is considered very popular and effective.

When comparing check-lifting and blepharoplasty, many patients regret that they did not realize in time to carry out these operations at the same time. No other operation can provide such an amazing effect. People who have tried check-lifting on themselves say that their faces became ten years younger after the procedure, their cheekbones became higher, nasolabial folds disappeared, their cheeks were pulled up, and their facial contours improved.

The combination of procedures leads to excellent results

Natalia, Volgograd

“I was always confused by some strange bags on my cheekbones. Because of them, they gave me another 15–20 years. However, I was mortally afraid to undergo surgery, under the surgeon’s knife. But during the consultation, the surgeon described the entire operation process to me in great detail, and I realized that there was nothing to be afraid of, and the risks were completely minimal. The operation was performed under local anesthesia, but I did not feel any pain. Much time has passed, the scars have healed, and the bags no longer bother me. Besides, I can now boast of a youthful appearance.”

Tatiana, Astrakhan

“When I was young, everything about my face suited me, but over time, large nasolabial folds appeared. It’s good that I turned to cosmetologists in time, who recommended me check-lifting and blepharoplasty. Thanks to high-quality pain relief, I did not feel any discomfort at all. After the bandages were removed, which happened three days later, my face looked slightly swollen, but after a couple of weeks I couldn’t stop looking at myself! It felt like I had lost thirty years at once. Now I recommend this procedure to all my girlfriends, because the effect of it is truly unsurpassed.”

Girls like the procedure

Anatoly, Tyumen

“I realized that I needed plastic surgery when, with age, my face no longer suited me. Doctors assured me that the use of anti-aging procedures is now not uncommon, even among men. However, I still couldn’t decide for a long time. I asked for the operation to be performed under general anesthesia, so I don’t remember anything. There were no complications, but at first my face was swollen. When I returned to my workplace half a month later, all my colleagues were shocked by my external transformation. But I didn’t reveal my secret to anyone. I believe that men should not be ashamed to strive to look younger and more beautiful, so I can recommend it to everyone.”

Claudia, Samara

“During pregnancy, I suffered from swelling; after giving birth, of course, it went away, but it left behind bags on my cheekbones. The wrinkles that appeared at the corners of the lips also did not inspire optimism. I tried many beauty and salon treatments, but they didn't work. My friends recommended check-lifting to me. During the consultation, the surgeon assured me that during the operation there will be a redistribution of fatty tissue, thanks to which several problems can be eliminated at once. I don’t remember how I felt after the operation, but after a few days I noticed that the nasolabial folds became less noticeable. And after another half a month, the bags and swelling disappeared. I think my appearance is even better than it was before pregnancy. There were no complications, no discomfort, everything went quickly and perfectly - what could be better?”

Both girls and men choose this type of face lift

SMAS lifting - full review of the procedure

SMAS is translated as superficial muscular aponeurotic system. These are the layers of the face, which include the wide flat ligament (aponeurosis), muscles, fat packets and ligaments that hold them in place. With age, the ligaments weaken and the face falls down. This drooping of facial tissues is called ptosis.

Previously, impact on the ligaments was only possible through surgery. The surgeon made an incision along the border of the scalp and near the ear, peeled off the tissue, pulled up the aponeurosis and all the tissue with it, and sutured it higher, for example, to the periosteum of the temporal bone. As a result of the operation, the face received the coveted lift for some time.

Several years ago, a high-frequency focused ultrasound (HIFU - haifu technology) technique was developed, which makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​this very aponeurosis, reduce the volume of fat bags and thicken the skin, while the technique works without incisions and without damaging the upper layers of the skin at all.

Hardware SMAS technique

The hardware SMAS technique works as follows: Pulses penetrate the skin to a certain depth, in the case of the face this is 1.5, 2, 3 and 4.5 mm.

This impulse is focused, it acts on a small area of ​​tissue at a given depth, friction of cells in this area occurs, heat is released, cells are damaged.

Many of these points with damage cause a reduction in tissue area and trigger the process of restoration and collagen formation; in adipose tissue, the lipolytic effect is more pronounced. At the level of 4.5 mm, the effect is on ligaments, 3 mm on adipose tissue, 2 and 1.5 mm on skin quality.

What effect will there be from SMAS lifting?

Compaction of SMAS and strengthening of ligaments is a lifting effect . Targeted destruction of adipose tissue - lipolytic , to reduce fat bags. On the skin area - increasing tone, eliminating sagging . The visible effect is that the face becomes more compact, there is less swelling in the eyelid area and sagging of the subeyebrow area, the jowls are reduced in volume, and the cheeks creep less into the nasolabial area. The face looks younger and fresher . In general, the word “compactization” very accurately describes the essence of the procedure.

When this procedure is carried out on the body, it reduces local fat deposits and eliminates sagging skin.

How long does the effect of SMAS lifting last?

This cannot be answered unequivocally, since there is always a question at what age, for what condition of the face, hardware SMAS lifting is performed, as well as how well the problem areas were worked out (number of lines, their distribution, power of influence).

On average, when a patient is under 35 years old, does not have excess tissue in the oval area of ​​the face, and the procedure is carried out to prevent ptosis (tissue drooping) or eliminate swelling, the effect lasts up to 1.5 years.

If work is done on a face with obvious sagging of the tissues and/or after 35 years, then the effect of smas-lifting also lasts 1-1.5 years, but here we must take into account a very important point. In this case, you should not expect an incredible effect from hardware smas-lifting without enhancing it with frame procedures (fillers, thread lifting). When facial tissues already require lifting, smas-lifting is used as part of a correction scheme; it tightens the ligaments of fatty tissue, so that fillers and threads can then fulfill their task 100%.

Sometimes, if a separate problem area requires work, for example, paint bags, the procedure can be carried out twice with an interval of 4-6 months.

This is done in order to obtain a sufficiently complete result, since the required number of lines may be impossible to fit into one procedure, since there is a risk of overheating of the facial tissues and complications. The final result also lasts up to 1.5 years.

Video about the effect of SMAS lifting

When and who should do SMAS lifting?

• Beginning age-related changes in the cheek-zygomatic area, nasolabial, along the oval of the face. More often this is a deformation and tired type of aging.
• Swelling (pastiness) of the face, especially in the lower eyelids
• Flabbiness and weakness of tissue in the area under the chin (double chin area). Even in fairly slender women, this area makes itself felt sooner and later; prevention and tightening the tissue is the best option.
• Preparation for thread lifting , injection of fillers based on hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite
• In case of pronounced paint bags, this procedure can be performed from the age of 18.
• Reduce the cheeks on faces with pronounced subcutaneous fat in this area.
• Flabbiness of the skin of the neck and décolleté with a pronounced subcutaneous fat layer
• Fat traps (chin, abdomen) and flabby atonic skin above them

How does the SMAS lifting procedure feel?

The procedure can hardly be called completely painless, and yet it is tolerated by patients calmly. You can feel the heating of the tissues, somewhere warm, somewhere hot, near the bone base it is more sensitive, but usually specialists bypass these particularly delicate areas. The more pronounced the subcutaneous fat layer, the less sensation. If the patient’s pain threshold is low, then it is usually recommended to drink a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with an analgesic effect, for example, Nurofen or Ketanov, an hour before the procedure.

Pain after SMAS lifting

How much the face hurts after massage lifting is of interest to everyone who is planning the procedure. It’s impossible to say unambiguously here, because everything depends on the number of lines performed, the parameters on which the procedure was performed, the patient’s pain threshold and the area of ​​treatment. There are patients who do not feel anything at all after the procedure, but sometimes, on the contrary, they feel their face for up to a month.

On average, there is no pain immediately after the procedure. The face swells a little, there is a feeling of warmth, some people note a feeling of slight numbness and aching at the same time, but this is not pain. In the following days, mild painful sensations may be present during facial expressions and touching the face; patients note that these sensations intensify if the day has been busy and there is general fatigue

The main thing is to understand that this is not the kind of pain for which you have to take painkillers. On average, “reminders” about the past SMAS lifting procedure last 1-2 weeks, rarely 3. Then they disappear and we wait for the increasing effect.

The area of ​​the eyelids, and specifically the paint bags, is a separate topic, because rehabilitation is different from other areas. The pain is mild, but significant swelling of this area is possible for up to 5 days. If persistent redness is present, the doctor will probably prescribe an anti-inflammatory cream topically for a couple of days. To summarize, the most unpleasant sensations during SMAS lifting will be during the procedure.

Rehabilitation as a whole does not cause significant discomfort and does not require any special actions in relation to the treated area - normal home care, limit temperature changes (ice cubes, ice water, bathhouse, sauna, solarium) for two weeks.

If acute pain occurs, this is not normal and you should definitely contact the doctor who performed the procedure.

Why is there no effect from SMAS lifting?

The effectiveness of any procedure depends, firstly, on the selection of patients, and secondly, on the sufficiency of the impact. In the case of smas-lifting, an aging face with pronounced sagging tissue would be a bad choice. In this case, it’s not that there will be no effect, but it will be minimal, because smas-lifting in this case is only the first stage of the work, you don’t need to expect the effect of the operation from it.

The second question is how well the problem areas were worked out; here the effect directly depends on the number of pulses (lines). There are recommended numbers for the lines, and there is the amount that will give a really visible effect. And these numbers may vary. It all depends on the experience and observation of the doctor.

The main thing is to know whether the lack of effect or its insufficiency is often a matter of incorrect selection of patients for the procedure, insufficient number of lines per area, unreasonable promises of the cosmetologist (which happens often) and, as a result, inflated expectations of the patient. If expectations are too high, even a good sufficient result may turn out to be insignificant.

There is also a moment when the effectiveness of the procedure decreases while taking anti-inflammatory drugs during the rehabilitation period (the first 1-2 weeks). The very essence of stimulating tissue restoration through damage (this is typical for lasers, micro-needle RF, SMAS lifting) is that after this negative stimulation of tissues, a full cascade of inflammatory reactions must go through.

It is she who launches all the desired processes - rejuvenation, tissue contraction, lipolysis, collagen production. If it does not exist due to the fact that it was carefully extinguished with anti-inflammatory drugs, then there is no point in waiting for a full effect.

Therefore, if you are simultaneously treating your back, for example, or reducing toothache, then warn your doctor about all these points, this is very significant. Your condition, in principle, may be a contraindication to the procedure, as well as the medications you take.

When can I expect the effect of SMAS lifting?

The effect of this procedure is slowly increasing. The fact that immediately after the procedure there is a feeling of tightness is just post-traumatic edema, you should not focus on it. If during a procedure they lift you up and give you a mirror to compare the treated and untouched sides, just smile, this is intra-procedural marketing or out of ignorance. This swelling will go away in 2-3 days. But tissue restoration after thermal damage and, as a result, stimulation of collagen production will take up to 3-4 months. It is during this period of time that the effect grows. It is better to take before and after photos in the same lighting so that you can evaluate the real effect.

Does hardware SMAS lifting replace surgery?

Definitely not. If the condition of the tissues on the face and neck is such that surgical intervention is indicated, there is no point in wasting time and money on a device. After the operation, the effect can be maintained by the device, this is another question. More often, smas-lifting is work to prevent ptosis, swollen faces, minor tissue subsidence or noticeable ones, but as the first stage of work (later reinforced with laser, threads, fillers).

What areas are not treated with SMAS lifting?

It is not performed on the central area of ​​the forehead, only the tails of the eyebrows can be raised. In fact, this procedure will not replace endoscopic or thread eyebrow lifting, for example. It is not performed on the area where nerves exit; these areas are marked by a cosmetologist before the procedure. Be sure to bypass the area of ​​the thyroid gland.

Is preliminary preparation required before SMAS lifting?

If there is obvious sagging skin and you want to get the maximum effect on skin tightening, then yes. As before any negative stimulation (laser, Rf), it is better to do positive stimulation (biorevitalization, peptides, mesotherapy, plasma therapy). It should be understood that these methods and similar preparation will not affect the result in the deeper layers (aponeurosis, ligaments, adipose tissue). Basically, this is an enhanced effect on the quality of the skin, which we achieve with more superficial sensors (1.5 mm)

What is the rehabilitation after SMAS lifting?

The appearance is practically not affected, unlike other procedures aimed at tissue tightening and lifting. A slightly swollen face, most often only the patient himself sees this. When treating the area of ​​paint bags, swelling may be more pronounced for up to 3-4 days. Redness often goes away right on the day of the procedure, sometimes on sensitive areas of the skin it remains for another couple of days.

It is extremely rare that single bruises may appear, which can be covered with tone even on the day of the procedure. A person does not drop out of public life at all, this is the main advantage of hardware smas-lifting. If the skin is very sensitive and prone to redness, then you can do the procedure the day before the weekend, and in this case, probably none of your friends will understand anything.

It feels like there is no pain after the procedure, but there is a slight ache when touched; it can last from 1 to 3 weeks, gradually fading away. It does not require pain relief, but only slightly reminds you of the procedure.

Contraindications to the SMAS lifting procedure:

• age up to 18 years
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding
• metal implants in the treatment area (except for dental ones) and pacemakers (pacemaker)
• diabetes mellitus and other autoimmune diseases in the stage of decompensation
• acute conditions (ARVI, fever, internal diseases in the acute stage, pain syndrome)
• fresh herpetic rashes and skin diseases in the acute stage in the treatment area (including acne), also lupus erythematosus, scleroderma
• oncology
• neuropsychiatric disorders, including epilepsy
• diseases of the cardiovascular system
• taking anticoagulants (for example, aspirin, Cardiomagnyl)

What should you not do after SMAS lifting?

Baths, saunas, solariums, hot showers are excluded for 2-3 weeks. It is also not recommended to overcool the treated area, that is, no cloth masks from the refrigerator, ice cubes and walks in -20. You can bend over after the procedure; it is not advisable to maintain this position for a long time in the first days after the procedure. There is no ban on alcohol or sports, although I still recommend limiting them for the first three days.

Is it possible to combine SMAS lifting with other procedures in one visit?

Now doctors have such experience, and I have seen several publications on combining SMAS lifting and Radiesse into one procedure, as well as laser treatment. I am of the opinion that the use of actively stimulating procedures simultaneously increases the risk of adverse events, and in my practice I try to space these manipulations out over 3-4 weeks. I think the question of whether or not it can be combined will remain open for a long time, and here the doctor needs to decide on the spot (during communication and after examination) whether he is ready to take on such responsibility.

How to combine SMAS lifting with fillers and Botox?

It is better to do injections after it, an interval of 2-4 weeks. If botulinum toxin and filler have already been injected, and the areas do not overlap, then there are no contraindications, we wait 10-14 days and do a smas-lifting. If the treatment is the same, for example the area of ​​the eyelids or cheeks, then it is better to wait 2 months after the injections and then do a hardware procedure.

How to combine SMAS lifting with other hardware procedures?

It all depends on the type of impact. It is ideal to leave an interval of 4-6 weeks between damaging procedures (SMAS and laser, SMAS and micro-needle radiovon lifting). If photorejuvenation (IPL, BBL) is planned, then in general 2-3 weeks is usually enough. Microcurrents, ultrasonic cleaning, non-injection mesotherapy - 2 weeks.

Is it possible to combine SMAS lifting with operations?

If the operation was performed on the face or neck, you need to clarify this issue with the surgeon. Typically, specialists are aware of modern hardware techniques, and without any problems give such recommendations, taking into account the complexity of the operation and the characteristics of the recovery period for each individual patient. But generally speaking, when the areas of surgery and SMAS lifting do not overlap, there are no fundamental deadlines. We have recovered from surgery and are doing a smas lift. If the area is the same, then in any case there will be no less than 3-4 months, unless otherwise indicated by the surgeon.

What is a line in SMAS lifting?

A line is a series of ultrasonic pulses. It is marked on the working attachment and is usually no more than 3-4 cm. It lasts a second or two. The faster, the easier it feels for patients. It may take 200 lines per area, or up to 1000 on the face and chin as a whole. This is determined by a cosmetologist during a consultation.

How many lines are needed in SMAS lifting

Lines in SMAS lifting are an integral part of the procedure, because the effectiveness of the procedure depends on the quantity. Few lines, weak effect. Here, trying to save money in order to try a little and evaluate the effect on a small scale is not very appropriate.

• Eyelid area (overhanging eyebrows, paint bags) - 200-350 lines
• Cheek area and face oval - 400-800 lines
• Double chin 150-300 lines
• Full face 600-1000 lines
• Face + chin 700-1300 lines

There is a variation in the lines because all faces are individual, from basic sizes (large or small faces) to the need for correction of specific areas. The operation scheme and number of lines are discussed in detail during the consultation.

Why is facial marking done during SMAS lifting?

There are dangerous areas on the face for exposure with a deep sensor, for example, the points where nerves exit the skull and the eye area. While sitting, the doctor marks these areas and also draws the treatment zones. It does this because in a lying position the tissues will shift, and you need to do the procedure technically correctly, without harming or overheating the tissues and get the maximum benefit.

Which device is better to use for SMAS lifting?

Ulthera device

The pioneers and creators of the technique are the manufacturers of the Ulthera device. This is the very first device, it is original and, to some extent, unique in its own way. A few years later, devices copying this technique began to appear. Those that are registered in the Russian Federation are also effective and safe.

device ULTRAFORMER (Ultraformer)

One of them is ULTRAFORMER. There is a difference between them, this applies to both the attachments and the tissue visualization system during the procedure. This is important for the doctor. In general, we can say that the patient will not see any difference in the effect if the procedure is performed correctly, because the technology is the same, the depth of impact is the same.

Brands of devices for SMAS lifting

Advantages and disadvantages

I work with the second option (Ultraformer) and my patients are happy with the result. The advantages over Altera are that the procedure is faster, less painful (due to the speed at which the device produces impulses), and is 2-2.5 times cheaper. The last point is important, since the bill runs into tens of thousands of rubles. I in no way belittle Altera’s advantages, she is special in her own way and some patients and doctors choose her no matter what, that’s a fact.

The only negative I want to note is the number of Altera fakes. Since this is an original device, that is, the first for which this technique was patented, it has a colossal number of Chinese followers who completely copy the design and interface of the original, without a twinge of conscience, they import these counterfeits into our country through gray means and sell them 5 times cheaper.

There are even clinics who want to buy these devices. Some want to save on multimillion-dollar equipment and believe that there is no difference, others think simply out of stupidity and trust. But the point is the same: when you come to Altera there is always a chance to run into a fake device. Not even all doctors can tell the difference.

I haven’t seen any counterfeits of the Ultraformer, or they’re simply not being thrown onto the Russian market in such large numbers. It’s like with No-shpa and drotaverine, Unidox and doxycycline. Few people counterfeit a cheaper copy (drotaverine hydrochloride); everyone strives to make money by counterfeiting the original drug (no-shpa).

It is also worth considering the fact that in many offices in our country there are devices that are not labeled under any brand, but they are nevertheless found and used illegally, they have not passed all stages of quality control, and as a result do not have a registration certificate. The effectiveness of such devices is a separate issue, as is safety. Their procedures cost pennies. The option “whole face for 10 thousand,” for example, should at least arouse suspicion.

The smas-lifting procedure is unique in its concept and mechanism. Its main secret is to wait for the real effect, listen and hear your doctor when he pronounces the nuances of SMAS lifting, and do not try to replace threads and fillers with this procedure, and especially surgery. With a competent approach, a combination of techniques will give an excellent result, and SMAS lifting will definitely not be left behind.

Video of the SMAS lifting procedure (completely)

SMAS lifting procedure 2 on video

Experts' opinion

Gorislav Denis Davydovich, plastic surgeon

“I feel good about this type of correction and often recommend it to my patients. However, I almost always combine it with other cosmetological techniques. For example, a patient may experience lower eyelid inversion due to errors during blepharoplasty or other complications. For him, it will be much more effective to combine blepharoplasty with a check-lift.”

Mukhametdinov Musa Anvarovich, Doctor of Medical Sciences

“Thanks to check-lifting, you can tighten the middle third of the face. Very often, plastic surgeons offer to combine several cosmetic techniques at once, such as check-lifting with blepharoplasty or check-lifting with SMAS correction. This allows you to get more effective results. During the operation I use endoscopic devices. I peel off some tissue in the cheekbone area, and then move it to another place and fix it. This allows you to lift your cheeks, eliminate ptosis, restore lost volume to the middle zone, and thus rejuvenate your face.”

Experts also consider the procedure effective

Martirosyan Robert Tatesavich, MD and practicing surgeon

“A check-lift must be used in case of eversion of the lower eyelid or unsuccessful blepharoplasty. In other situations, you need to follow the indications.”

A plastic surgeon performing aesthetic facial correction must have a well-developed artistic perception, otherwise he may disrupt the symmetry and harmony of the face.

What is blepharoplasty?

Non-surgical blepharoplasty is one of the methods that results in eyelid skin tightening without surgery using various techniques. The most commonly used are hardware and injection techniques.

Women after 35 years resort to this procedure. Men are also no exception. Non-surgical blepharoplasty of the upper or lower eyelids is recommended for the following external signs:

• drooping upper eyelids and ptosis;
• the appearance of dark circles and bags under the eyes;
• deep wrinkles;
• the presence of a nasolacrimal groove;
• stretched skin;
• dark spots.

Please note that this procedure is recommended for those who are candidates for surgical blepharoplasty, but it cannot be performed if there are direct contraindications. Devices that perform non-surgical eyelid surgery are used to remove skin problems such as:

• papillomas;
• rosacea;
• scars.

Check-lift cost

In cosmetology clinics and salons in Moscow, the cost of a check-lifting procedure varies from 50 thousand rubles. up to 200 thousand rubles. The price of the procedure depends on the following reasons:

1. The larger the area of ​​correction, the more expensive the procedure will cost.
2. Type of anesthesia. General anesthesia is more expensive than local anesthesia.
3. The cost of the operation includes tests.
4. Each day the patient stays in the clinic is added to the cost.

Based on these factors, each clinic determines its own cost for the procedure. Therefore, the price for check-lifting is different everywhere. Each patient has an individual anatomy and physiology of the face, therefore the methods of performing the procedure are different.

Cost depends on many factors

We will indicate the cost of the procedure in different cities of Russia.

Contraindications and restrictions

Some people may be denied treatment. The procedure should not be performed on patients who have the following problems:

• skin diseases in the acute stage;
• epilepsy;
• infectious processes;
• unstable blood pressure;
• pathology of the endocrine system;
• benign and malignant neoplasms;
• impaired blood clotting;
• intolerance to the materials and drugs used.

Restrictions are also established on the use of general anesthesia if there are the following health problems:

• pathology of the nervous system;
• mental disorders;
• bronchial asthma and other respiratory diseases;
• renal or liver failure;
• chronic heart and vascular diseases;
• body weight deficiency.

Photos before and after the procedure

Photos before and after check-lifting procedure No. 1

Photos before and after check-lifting procedure No. 2

Photos before and after check-lifting procedure No. 3

Preparing for surgery

Before starting the procedure itself, a person needs to prepare. Initially, the following actions are carried out:

1. The patient is advised by a therapist and surgeon. The operation is carried out only after their approval.
2. If a person has received permission to carry out the procedure, then he is sent to an anesthesiologist for a consultation. This doctor determines whether general anesthesia can be used.
3. The patient undergoes various tests.
4. A month before the planned procedure, experts advise giving up nicotine, alcohol and hormonal pills.