The effects of aging and gravity on the face are well known, producing the characteristic appearance of the jowls, wrinkling and the loss of fat which leads to loose skin and hollowing. The surgical techniques used in face-lifting have been modified from the classical “skin only” face-lift and have improved considerably over the last few years. The aim is to rejuvenate the face and improve the effects of aging and gravity to give a more youthful appearance. It is common now to employ a “short scar” technique which limits the scarring behind the ear to allow the hair to be worn up. Correction of the jowls is achieved by elevating the deeper tissues rather than the skin alone and this gives a more long-lasting effect.
The use of additional procedures such as fat transfer and liposuction below the chin are often used to achieve a better contour. Dermal fillers and botulinum toxin can be undertaken at the same time or as a later out-patient procedure aimed to further the desire of achieving a youthful look.