Temporal Midface Fascia Lift

What is a Temporal Mid-Face Fascia Lift?

A temporal mid-face fascia lift is a surgical procedure designed to address sagging in the mid-face region. This procedure uses smaller incisions compared to a traditional facelift, with incisions usually placed along the scalp or hairline to help reduce visible scarring. Because the dissection is more limited than with a traditional facelift, recovery time may be shorter for some individuals.

When is this procedure considered?

This procedure is generally considered for people who want to address sagging in the mid-face, nasolabial folds, jawline, or lower facial skin. It is important to understand that results vary between individuals and that the procedure will not stop the natural ageing process.

A temporal mid-face fascia lift may be considered by individuals who:

Have mild to moderate mid-face sagging
Notice gradual skin laxity along the nasolabial folds, jawline, or around the mouth
Have experienced premature sagging following previous facial bone surgery
Are seeking a more targeted surgical option than non-surgical procedures (such as ultrasound-based skin tightening or thread lifts)
Have had previous thread lifts but were not satisfied with the results
Want to complement the results of other facial rejuvenation procedures

A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is essential to determine suitability, as not everyone will be an appropriate candidate for this surgery.

How is the procedure performed?

The surgery typically involves a small incision (about 2 cm) on the scalp, above the temple.
Through this incision, the surgeon carefully adjusts the superficial temporal fascia (a connective tissue layer) and lifts the mid-face structures.
The lifted tissue is then secured with sutures, and excess scalp tissue may be removed to maintain the lift.

The procedure usually takes around one to one and a half hours and may be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthesia in a day-surgery setting.

Recovery process:

Initial recovery is generally around 2–3 days, although this varies between individuals.
Sutures are typically removed 7–10 days after the procedure.
Your practitioner will provide personalised aftercare instructions to support healing.

Benefits and limitations

Some potential benefits of this procedure may include:

Improvement in sagging of the lateral cheeks, nasolabial folds, and fatty tissue around the mouth
Incisions placed within the scalp, which may help to reduce visible facial scarring
A generally less extensive procedure compared to a traditional facelift, with a potentially shorter recovery period
May also provide some lifting effect to the eyelids or brow area, depending on individual circumstances

Limitations and considerations:

This procedure may offer less improvement for individuals with significant mid-face hollowing or certain facial contour concerns

Results vary and may not last as long as those from a traditional facelift
Changes to the hairline around the temples may occur
The outcome is influenced by factors such as age, skin type, and lifestyle
Further treatments may be required in the future to maintain results

Risks and possible complications

Potential complications of a temporal mid-face fascia lift may include:

Scarring on the scalp
Localised hair loss around the incision sites
Temporary or permanent numbness or tingling in the scalp near the incision area
Poor wound healing or infection
Small, temporary depressions in the scalp tissue
Changes to the hairline at the temples

Dr Xu will discuss these risks and ways to minimise them during your consultation.

The results of this procedure will vary for each person and cannot be guaranteed.

This surgery does not prevent the natural ageing process.

The decision to proceed should only be made after a detailed consultation with a registered health practitioner, who will consider your goals, overall health, and expectations.