Understanding the MACS Facelift
The MACS facelift, or Minimal Access Cranial Suspension, is a specialised facial rejuvenation procedure designed to lift the lower third of the face with minimal scarring. This innovative approach targets deeper tissues, making it ideal for those exhibiting mild to moderate signs of aging. Unlike traditional facelift techniques, the MACS lift is less invasive, involving smaller incisions, reduced risk of facial nerve exposure, and promoting shorter recovery times.
Lifting facial structures vertically offers a subtle yet significant improvement, making patients look refreshed and youthful without appearing too ‘done.’
The Basics of MACS
At the heart of the MACS lift is the short scar technique, which sets it apart from traditional facelifts. This method involves making small, strategically placed incisions that result in less visible scarring. Minimising the access needed to perform the lift reduces the risk of complications and shortens the recovery time, enabling patients to resume their daily routines more quickly.
The MACS lift procedure also focuses on achieving a natural, upward pull that counteracts the effects of gravity. This technique avoids the ‘windswept’ look, removes loose skin and instead providing a more youthful and balanced appearance. Over time, scars from the procedure lighten and become nearly unnoticeable, blending seamlessly with the natural contours of the face.
Why Choose MACS lift procedure? Are you the ideal candidate?
The MACS facelift is increasingly favoured for its less invasive approach, which results in shorter recovery times and minimal scarring compared to traditional facelifts.
Ideal candidates for this procedure are those with mild to moderate facial ageing who desire a lifted, youthful look without the extensive downtime. By employing shorter incisions and lifting facial structures vertically, the MACS lift avoids the ‘windswept’ effect, leading to more natural-looking results.
Middle-aged patients in your 40's and 50's benefit from the subtle corrections offered by the MACS lift, addressing early signs of ageing.
Does the MACS Lift work for you?
This versatility makes the MACS lift a beneficial option for those who aim to regain facial contours altered due to aging, pregnancy, or weight loss. The procedure primarily focuses on the mid to lower facial areas, improving nose-to-mouth creases, jawline sagging, and neck laxity.
Patients can expect a youthful appearance and a jowl-free jawline as a key benefit of the MACS lift, with results that are both long-lasting and natural-looking. This does mean that patients need to look after their skin and ensure a good lifestyle such as healthy diet and exercise, no smoking, wearing a factor 50+ sunblock and keeping out of the midday sun.
Addressing Loose Skin
Loose facial skin is a common concern among those seeking facial rejuvenation. The MACS lift addresses this issue by utilising a carefully placed incision along the outer hairline and front ear crease, allowing for vertical lifting and the removal of excess skin. This approach effectively rejuvenates both the face and neck, providing a more youthful and refreshed look.
Targeting the elevation of the mid-face, the MACS lift enhances the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and jowls, leading to a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance. This procedure can also correct mild facial asymmetry, skin laxity and sagging, further contributing to the overall younger appearance.
Combining Procedures
If you are looking for a more comprehensive transformation, the MACS lift can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as eyelid surgery and fat transfer. We have many patients who combine with neck contouring and eyelid lifts.
The Journey to Recovery
The recovery process after a MACS lift is a critical phase that determines the overall success of the procedure. Patients can manage bruising and swelling with pain medications and cold compresses. You may have some discomfort for a week, but this can be managed with pain killers. Most patients can expect to be back to work within 7 to 10-14 days. You can then start light activities. However you know your body and taking it slow is often best advised.
In your third and fourth week post-surgery, patients have their sutures removed. You will see improvements in facial contour and can start more active activities.
After one month, most patients return to their normal activities.
Immediate Post-Op Care
Prior to surgery we will book you post operative appointments to ensure a successful recovery. This is generally the day after surgery to remove surgical dressings, advice on wearing a compression garment. Then further post operative appointments at week one then 2-3 weeks later.
We advise all patients that they need a friend or family member to take them back home.
Taking rest in the first week is the best strategy as swelling can occur . Following our post operative instructions is paramount.
Resuming Normal Activities
The MACS is a shorter recovery time, with most patients able to resume normal activities within one week. you can Return to work generally 7-10-14 days after surgery.
Facelift patients resume work, exercise, and social activities within about one week.
Longevity and Results of MACS Lift
The MACS lift offers long-lasting results, typically 5 to 7 years, some see the effects for 10 years. Patients can look eight to ten years younger.
Primary factors, including a patient’s skin condition, age, and lifestyle choices (good diet, exercise, no sun damage skin), will influence the length of the results from a MACS lift. We can't forget that the natural ageing process still continues.
Following a MACS lift, patients will continue to improve over a number of months as swelling goes down.
Enhancing Results
Protecting skin from the sun and employing medical-grade skincare are key steps to extend the benefits of a MACS lift. Adopting healthy eating habits, engaging in daily exercise, and managing body weight and sun exposure significantly enhance the longevity of MACS lift results.
Fat transfer which promotes collagen production and skin elasticity can complement the MACS lift to maintain a youthful appearance over time.
Patient Experiences and Outcomes
Many conventional lift patients feedback that they are pleased with their outcomes.
Before and After Gallery
At Consultation you will see the before and after photos of the MACS facelift.
You will see a reduction of jowls, a more defined jawline, and an overall rejuvenation of the lower face and neck areas.
Summary and next step a consultation
The MACS can achieve a natural-looking result with minimal scarring and shorter recovery times.
If you’re considering a facelift and seeking a minimally invasive option that delivers long-lasting, natural results, the MACS lift may be an option worth discussing with our Plastic Surgeons. In the consultation, they will discuss what you want to achieve and then examine your face, skin and muscle laxity so they can give you the best options to achieve a refreshed and rejuvenated face.
At Kensington Medical our plastic surgeons are on the GMC register for plastics and specialise in the face.
To find out more about our surgeons visit our about us page.
Mr David Gateley, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Medical Director, GMC: 2939470 | MA FRCS FRCS (Plast).
Mr Paul Tulley, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, GMC: 4035952 | BSc MB BS MD FRCS(Plas).
To book a consultation and find out what facelift is right for you click the contact us page.
To find out about our extensive facelift options visit here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MACS facelift?
The MACS facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation technique that effectively lifts the lower third of the face while minimising scarring and ensuring quicker recovery compared to conventional facelift methods. This approach offers patients an efficient solution for achieving a youthful appearance.
How does the MACS lift differ from a traditional facelift?
The MACS lift is less invasive than a traditional facelift, utilising smaller incisions and minimizing facial nerve exposure, which leads to shorter recovery times. It offers a more natural appearance by lifting facial structures vertically.
Who is an ideal candidate for a MACS lift?
An ideal candidate for a MACS lift is a middle-aged individual experiencing mild to moderate facial aging, seeking a youthful appearance with a quick recovery. Those want nig to get bac to work or who cannot take off more than 10 days will benefit from this facelift.
What is the recovery process like after a MACS lift?
The recovery process after a MACS lift typically involves managing bruising and swelling with pain medications and cold compresses. Patients can generally return to work within 1 to 2 weeks and may resume more strenuous activities by weeks three and four, with full recovery taking up to a year.
How long do the results of a MACS lift last?
The results of a MACS lift generally last between 5 to 7 years, although some individuals may experience effects for up to 10 years. Various factors, including skin condition, age, and lifestyle choices, can affect the duration of the results.
