What Is a Mid-Face Lift?

The mid-face is the anatomical triangle from the lower eyelid margin to the corner of the nose and across to the corner of the mouth. Over time, fat compartments descend, skin loses elasticity, and a visible hollow forms at the eyelid-cheek junction. A mid-face lift returns these displaced tissues to their original position, restoring volume and contour.

How Does It Differ from a Full Facelift?

Traditional facelifts primarily address the lower face and neck. Yet the earliest visible signs of ageing often appear in the mid-face: beneath the cheekbones and along the eyelid-cheek junction. A standard facelift may not adequately address this zone. A mid-face lift differs in the anatomical layer targeted, incision placement, and tissue repositioning. Because the surgical field is more limited, recovery is typically shorter.

What Does the Deep Plane Technique Mean?

Procedures working only in superficial layers tighten skin without addressing underlying structures, which can produce a "pulled" appearance over time. The deep plane technique targets the tissue level immediately beneath the SMAS, allowing the surgeon to lift muscle, connective tissue, and fat compartments as a composite unit. Because the skin is not under undue tension, the result looks more natural and lasts longer.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

A visible hollow or "tired" appearance at the eyelid-cheek junction
Descent of the malar fat pad beneath the cheekbones
Deep nasolabial folds from volume loss rather than excess skin
Structural sagging that does not respond to fillers
Sufficient general health for elective surgery

Definitive candidacy is assessed during the consultation.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Under general anaesthesia or sedation, typically within two to three hours. Incisions are usually hidden along the hairline or inside the lower eyelid margin. Tissues are released at the deep plane level and repositioned anatomically; redundant skin is addressed as needed.

Recovery

Swelling and bruising in the first few days are expected. Most patients return to social activities within two to three weeks; final results appear over the following months. Keep the head elevated, restrict strenuous activity for the first few weeks, and attend follow-ups.

Potential Risks

Temporary or persistent changes in skin sensation, asymmetry, scarring, infection, and anaesthesia-related complications are possible. Risks are discussed individually during the consultation.

Why a Head and Neck Surgeon?

The mid-face houses branches of the facial nerve, orbital anatomy, and delicate tissue layers. A background in ENT and Head and Neck Surgery provides extensive experience with this precise territory. Op. Dr. Hüseyin Arslan practises facial plastic surgery at his clinic in Sisli, Istanbul. Use the contact form to request a consultation.