When Should You Consider Getting an Endoscopic Facelift?

Aging brings wisdom and experience, but it can also bring some cosmetic changes that we might not be too fond of. One common concern for many people about aging is the appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin, and a loss of facial volume. If you are starting to notice these signs of aging and they are bothering you, you might be wondering if an endoscopic facelift is right for you. We will discuss everything about endoscopic facelifts so you can understand if you are a good candidate for this treatment.

What is an Endoscopic Facelift?

An endoscopic facelift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. It helps you improve the signs of aging in the face and neck. It’s different from a traditional facelift because it uses much smaller incisions. During an endoscopic facelift, a cosmetic surgeon will make small incisions in inconspicuous areas, such as the hairline or around the ears. They will then insert a thin, lighted tube called an endoscope into these incisions. The endoscope allows the surgeon to see the underlying tissues of the face on a video monitor. Using advanced tools inserted through the incisions, the surgeon can then lift and tighten the muscles and tissues of the face and neck. They can also remove excess skin and redistribute fat to create a more youthful look.

Who is a Good Candidate?

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, endoscopic facelifts are ideal for people who have: 

• Noticeable sagging or jowls in the mid-face and lower face
• Deep wrinkles or creases around the nose and mouth
• Excess fatty deposits in the cheeks or jowls
• Relatively good skin elasticity

 However, you must know that endoscopic facelifts are not a standard solution. During a consultation with a plastic surgeon, they will discuss your goals and concerns to understand if it is the right procedure for you. Here are some other factors that a plastic surgeon will consider when understanding your qualifications for this treatment: 

• Your age: Endoscopic facelifts are effective for people in their 40s and 50s who are starting to experience the signs of aging. But they are not really recommended for people with very loose skin or severe sun damage.

• Your skin quality: Endoscopic facelifts work best for patients with good skin elasticity. If your skin has lost a lot of elasticity, you may be a better candidate for a traditional facelift, which can remove excess skin.

• Your medical history: Certain medical conditions may make you a poor candidate for endoscopic facelift surgery. Discuss your complete medical history with your plastic surgeon during your consultation.

Benefits of Endoscopic Facelift

There are many advantages of an endoscopic facelift compared to a traditional one. These are: 

• Less noticeable scarring because the incisions are smaller.
• Shorter recovery time. It’s an outpatient procedure, so patients can return home the same day.
• Lower risk of complications as it’s less invasive than traditional one.
• More natural-looking results than a traditional procedure.

What to Expect During The Procedure

An endoscopic facelift is performed as an outpatient procedure in a surgical center or hospital. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect: Before surgery, you will meet with your plastic surgeon to discuss your requirements and goals for surgery. You will also need to inform your medical history and any medications you are taking. They will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery, such as stopping smoking and avoiding some medicines. During surgery, anesthesia will be given to keep you comfortable. Once you are asleep, your surgeon will perform the procedure. In some cases, liposuction may also be performed to remove excess fat. After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room for a short period. You might have some swelling and bruising. But it’s very normal and will improve over time. Your surgeon will give you some instructions on how to care for your incisions and manage any discomfort.

Wrapping Up: Considering an Endoscopic Facelift?

If you are considering facial rejuvenation and are looking for a minimally invasive option with a shorter recovery time, an endoscopic facelift could be the best option. But before you decide anything, consult a plastic surgeon and discuss whether you need this treatment. Be realistic about your expectations. Remember that endoscopic facelifts help restore a more youthful look, but they cannot stop the aging process.