Enhancing Facelift With Simultaneous Submalar Implant Augmentation.

BACKGROUND: The midface is particularly prone to the senescent changes of soft tissue ptosis and volume loss, which in individuals with aging or low adiposity can manifest as submalar hollowing. Facelift alone in those with submalar hollowing inadequately addresses the volume loss and may result in a gaunt appearance postoperatively. Submalar implant augmentation is a powerful tool for permanent midface volume restoration for a more youthful and natural contour, as opposed to soft tissue fillers that diminish over time. When performed together, submalar augmentation and facelift synergistically enhance facial rejuvenation results.

OBJECTIVES: Determine the long-term safety and efficacy of submalar implant augmentation as an adjunct to facelift.

METHODS: Retrospective review evaluating results and complications in all consecutive patients who had submalar implant augmentation with SMAS-plication facelift in a single surgeon private practice setting from January 1, 1991, to December 31, 2017.

RESULTS: Forty-eight patients underwent submalar augmentation with simultaneous facelift with an overall satisfaction rate of 95.7%. Complications included 2.1%transient infraorbital hypoesthesia, 1.1% prolonged swelling, and 1.1% capsular contraction that required a minor adjustment under local anesthesia. No infection, implant migration, or extrusion or facial nerve injury occurred.

CONCLUSIONS: Submalar implant augmentation is a safe and effective means of enhancing facelift results through midface volume restoration, subperiosteal release, and improved soft tissue suspension in a more favorable vector. Submalar implant augmentation performed simultaneously with facelift may be an attractive alternative to repeated soft tissue filler or fat injections for patients with submalar hollowing who are interested in facial rejuvenation surgery.