One of the most exciting innovations in contemporary cosmetic surgery is facial suspension or lifting using stitch anchored or tiny barbed self-anchoring sutures. The procedure is performed under local anesthetic infiltration through small incisions or tiny needle puncture entries.
There are many variations and combinations of techniques. Dr. Bouzouaya often combines different techniques to suit the individual. Suture suspension procedures are also "modular", being readily added to in future years as the person continues to age.
Unlike a traditional face-lift, skin is not excised and no incision scar is visible in front of the ear. While some traditional face-lifts do achieve a natural result with excellent scars, many leave the face with skin that falls unnaturally, anchored by the scar in front of the ear. The scar can widen and thicken in some patients and the face can develop an altered, windswept appearance. This complication does not exist with tread lifting techniques.
The suture suspension procedure is not suitable for patients with a lot of excess skin. In this situation the best option is a traditional face-lift. However some of our more mature patients have benefitted from a suture suspension procedure.
One of the most frequently executed suture lifts by Dr. Bouzouaya and his team is the zygomatic lift. With the zygomatic lift the lower oval of the face is lifted, giving it instantly a younger appearance. It is a quick (it only takes 20 to 30 minutes) procedure, under local anesthesia. The result is immediate and very natural. There are no bruises or swellings and the patient can normally return to his or her workplace the next day. Most patients, however, do feel some afterpain which can last up to three weeks. This is normal and can be remedied with normal painkillers.
