Facelift Patient-29

Asian female in her 70s underwent an awake facelift and neck lift to address facial sagging in the lower face (jowls and jawline), loose skin in the neck, deepened nasolabial folds around the nose, and marionette lines at the corners of the mouth. With age, the skin, fat, and muscles descend, causing the lower face to appear more rounded or square-shaped, which alters the overall facial shape.

Dr. Kim performed an awake extended deep plane facelift and neck lift using local anesthesia only, without general anesthesia or IV sedation. The patient remained fully awake and able to breathe safely on her own, without being intubated or sedated. This approach avoids the risks associated with general anesthesia and twilight (IV) sedation including blood clots, prolonged recovery, and cognitive decline (memory loss and dementia).

Traditional facelifts often rely on pulling the skin, leading to an unnatural, stretched appearance that does not last. Dr. Kim’s technique involves releasing more facial ligaments and re-draping and repositioning (not pulling) the deeper layers of the facial muscle for long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation. His minimal bleeding method further promotes faster recovery and optimal healing. Another key component of his facelift approach is midface elevation, which restores cheek volume without the need for fat grafting.

The patient achieved a sculpted, smooth jawline, tightened neck, lifted midface, and an overall refreshed, youthful appearance. Her facial shape transitioned from square to a more refined, slender oval contour. The results appear very natural and balanced, with no signs of pulling or an overdone look.