Endoscopically Assisted . . .

MACS stands for Minimal Access Cranial Suspension Lift. This procedure limits the operative incision to the skin at the hairline junction above and anterior to the ear but does not involve an extension of the incision behind the ear. With a MACS facelift, the area of undermining, unlike that seen with a conventional face-lift, is far more limited and  involves a small portion of the cheek only, resulting less risk of skin damage (necrosis).  The MACS facelift procedure is done using permanent internal stitches  otherwise known as suspension sutures, which are used to realign the deep layers of the face to that which will give a more youthful appearance. These sutures are made down to the neck the jowls and into the cheek fat pad. The MACS lift also elevates the malar fat pad, which in return reduces the nasolabial folds.

The MACS lift can be done at the same time as an upper-eye-lid operation. In nearly all cases liposuction is performed at the same time as a MACS facelift to the neck concentrating on the area below the angle of the mandible. This is done to remove excess fat and also to release the skin to allow re-draping using suspension sutures.

Because of the less invasive nature of a MACS face-lift, recovery from the procedure is  normally only 14 days with less associated postoperative risks when compared to a conventional face-lift.

The results of a MACS face-lift is seen to be at least equivalent, or in the majority of cases, better than a conventional facelift. This procedure is suitable for a younger patient who is experiencing some mid facial sagging. If marked sagging of the neck  is present, it might in some cases be necessary to make an incision posterior to the ear to effectively tighten the slack skin although in most cases, this is not found to be necessary.

The MACS facelift is carried out under a general anaesthetic and most patients will need to stay in the clinic for two days following surgery. The operation usually lasts about 1 ½ - 2 hours.

 

During the first five postoperative days, the area is bandaged and a few small drains are positioned behind the ear for the immediate 24-48 hours after surgery. Bandaging is removed on the fifth postoperative day after surgery and this is replaced by a light bandage known as a headband.

After operation there might be some bruising, particularly in front of the ear and over the cheek area. The skin may loose some sensitivity initially and swelling in the face can occur. The range of alteration in sensitivity can vary from no feeling at all at the operated site to an intense sensitivity but any sensitivity problems are usually temporary. Stitches from  the upper blepharoplasty incision are removed four-five days postoperatively, with the remainder of the stitches being absorbed naturally.

The rejuvenating effects of a MACS facelift can last for about 10 years, but is very much dependent upon the elasticity of an individuals skin as well as other considerations and such factors as diet and exposure to UV rays from the sun.

Last update: Revised 24th May 2010