For patients bothered by moderate to advanced signs of Facial aging, such as sagging jowls, loose neck skin, or diminished contours, a surgical facelift has been the gold standard for dramatic rejuvenation, providing results that can last 7 to 10 years.
However, traditional facelift techniques require extensive incisions around the ears or hairline along with deep undermining that can lead to visible scarring and lengthen the recovery process. An advanced technique called Minimally Invasive Deep Elevation (MIDE) facelift now offers comparable facial revitalization with shorter surgery, faster healing, and practically invisible scarring even for patients with higher skin laxity or fat volume.
Dr. Jose Barrera, a renowned board-certified facial plastic surgeon, is an expert in the minimally invasive deep elevation facelift technique. He focuses on providing patients with natural-looking rejuvenation that revitalizes their overall facial appearance.
How Does a MIDE Facelift Differ from a Traditional Facelift?
Unlike a traditional facelift, which utilizes larger incisions and significant undermining/repositioning of facial skin, muscles, and fat, the MIDE lift method achieves comprehensive facial tightening and lifting through only six microscopic incisions of 2 to 4 mm. No major undermining or tissue dissection is required. Facial structures are released and lifted from below using specialized scopes and instruments to reposition the structures into a more youthful position with long-lasting results.
Additional differences include:
- Shorter Surgery. Typically, MIDE lifts require 2 to 3 hours instead of 4 to 6 hours
- Local Anesthesia. Reduces risks versus general anesthesia
- No Hairline Incision. Lower hair loss is likely
- Minimal Bruising and Swelling. These effects typically resolve in 5 to 7 days instead of weeks
- Faster Recovery. Most patients feel publicly presentable in 10 to 14 days
- Lower Revision Rate. As high as 20% with traditional facelifts
Before & After Photos
What Are the Benefits of a MIDE Facelift and Necklift?
Why pursue a MIDE lift over traditional techniques? Benefits include:
- Long-Lasting Results. Typically produces 7 to 10 years of restored facial contour and tone
- Invisible Scarring. Microscopic incisions heal rapidly with meticulous closure
- Natural Look. MIDE methods avoid an overstretched or windswept appearance
- Suitable for All Skin Types. Effective even in patients with thicker skin or more fat volume
- Minimal Hair Loss Risk. No long incisions around the temples or hairline
- Rapid Healing. Return to normal life in 10 to 14 days
- Lower Chance of Revisions. The goal of MIDE is one-and-done rejuvenation
- Enhanced Skin Quality. MIDE lifts stimulate new collagen production
How Does MIDE Achieve Facial Renewal and Rejuvenation?
The MIDE lift utilizes specialized equipment and techniques to lift and resuspend underlying facial anatomy without undermining or lifting skin like traditional techniques. Steps include:
- Strategic Micro Incisions. Approximately 6 small (2-4mm) incisions allow access.
- Release of Retaining Ligaments. Fibrous tissues are precisely released from below using specialized scopes.
- Layer-by-Layer Elevation. Facial structures are methodically lifted using special instruments.
- Select Skin or Fat Removal. Limited excision or fat removal as no major undermining is performed.
- Secure Suspension Points. Deeper tissues are lifted or secured with dissolving sutures.
- Stimulate Collagen Growth. Energy devices trigger collagen regeneration.
- Scarless Healing. Small incisions meticulously close for invisible scars.
This approach allows comprehensive reshaping of the face or neck structures without long incisions or undermining. MIDE provides lower surgical trauma to speed healing.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a MIDE Facelift?
Good candidates for MIDE lift include:
- Those seeking facial rejuvenation who want minimal scarring
- People bothered by loose, sagging facial skin and wrinkles in the neck
- Individuals who want a natural but rejuvenated appearance
- Candidates worried about hair loss from traditional techniques
- Healthy patients at lower risk for anesthesia
- Busy people looking to minimize downtime
- Younger or mature patients seeking facial renewal
- Individuals needing a revision necklift
During your initial consultation, Dr. Barrera will analyze your anatomy, bone structure, skin elasticity, fat distribution, and more to recommend either MIDE or more traditional facelift options. Advanced computer imaging helps preview potential outcomes with each technique.
Why Choose Dr. Barrera for Your MIDE Facelift and Necklift?
As an industry leader in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Barrera provides unmatched expertise in executing facial rejuvenation procedures, both traditional and minimally invasive. He completed specialized fellowships focused on advanced facelift techniques including deep plane and composite lifts under leading body contouring pioneers.
When selecting a surgeon for facial rejuvenation, ensure they have years of focused practice in the specific procedures you require rather than being a general plastic surgeon. Choose your plastic surgeon based on real patient reviews, consistently beautiful before and after results, and adoption of the latest techniques.
Minimally Invasive Deep Elevation (MIDE) Facelift Technique in San Antonio, TX
For individuals seeking facial rejuvenation comparable to a traditional facelift but with minimal scarring, downtime, and innovative techniques, the MIDE lift represents the next generation of options.
This minimally invasive approach elicits comprehensive facial lifting or tightening that can last up to a decade for mature patients.
To take the first step towards a rejuvenated appearance, contact Dr. Barrera’s office at (210) 468-5426 or submit an inquiry through our online form. Dr. Barrera and his dedicated team are prepared to guide you through your transformative journey, ensuring you make a well-informed decision about your facial aesthetic goals.
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The post What Is the Minimally Invasive Deep Elevation (MIDE) Facelift and Necklift Technique? appeared first on Dr. Jose Barrera: San Antonio Facial Plastic Surgeon & ENT.
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