Will A MIdface Lift Work With Weak Bone Support?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a 42 year old female who is considering doing a high smas face lift to help correct some mid face hypoplasia and cheeks that have dissented. Saw a surgeon for this and was about to book but my friend sent me your article about custom implants. I was told I have a recessed upper jaw by an oral surgeon.

I want to know which is a better choice for my situation – high smas, custom implants, or both. I’d like an option that lasts me at least 8-10 years that looks natural and youthful. 

A: I am not sure how a midface can be effectively lifted when the bone support is lacking as there is nothing to hang the tissues onto or maintain its position. Midface tissues naturally descend prematurely when there is lack of bone support. The correction of midface hypoplasia is to add support which will naturally provide a lift. A lift without bone support is a wasted effort particularly in a young person.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon