The Quicklift^™ Weekend Facelift

The Quicklift™ Weekend Facelift is a modified version of the traditional S-Lift procedure. It provides an overall lift to the lower region of the face and the upper neck with a quicker recovery, smaller incisions, a lower risk of complications, and immediate results. The procedure can erase five or more years from one's appearance depending on the age and skin condition of the patient.

The procedure is designed for men and women between the ages of 40 and 65+ who want to stay ahead of the aging process. At this age, most individuals lose elasticity in their skin and develop looseness along the jaw line and under the chin to varying degrees. The Quicklift™ procedure can produce a significant age-diminishing effect for these patients.  

The Procedure

The Quicklift™ is an outpatient procedure that takes between one and two hours to perform. Oral pre-medication is generally recommended to help relax the patient. A local anesthetic is used in the pre-auricular area (the area in front of the ear) to desensitize the lower face, inhibit bleeding and gently separate the skin from the underlying tissue. A small, relaxed "S" shape incision is made beginning along the sideburn, extending behind the tragus of the ear, around the earlobe and up to the hairline toward the nape. The underlying connective tissue is tightened, the excess skin is tailored and the incision is sutured closed under magnification using an exclusive suturing technique that is designed to reduce tension at closure to minimize any visible scarring.

Recovery

The Quicklift™ is often called a "weekend facelift" because many patients have the procedure performed on a Friday, return to our office on Saturday for a quick follow-up appointment, and return to work on Monday or Tuesday. Although this may be true for some patients depending on their occupations — the downtime associated with the Quicklift™ will vary from patient to patient.

Although a prescription for pain medication is provided, most patients say over-the-counter Tylenol is all they need to alleviate any discomfort. Some patients may experience slight temporary bruising, which may be camouflaged with makeup after three days. To minimize the chance of postoperative swelling, patients are encouraged to sleep with their head elevated for the first week and to apply cold compresses as often as possible the first 48 hours.

Results

The Quicklift™ offers immediate results. The procedure can restore a more youthful appearance, firm the lower facial area, and improve jaw line definition.

Unlike other "mini lifts" that only tighten skin, the Quicklift™ involves tightening the connective tissue layer below the skin (called the "superficial musculoaponeurotic system, or SMAS), making the results long lasting.

It is important to keep in mind; however, after the procedure, the normal aging process resumes. Generally, younger patients enjoy longer lasting results, however lifestyle choices, bone structure, skin type, sun exposure and heredity all play a part in determining how long the result will last.

Cost

The Quicklift™ is more affordable than a traditional full-facelift, making it accessible to a wide range of men and women who are looking to stay ahead of the aging process.

Risks

As with any type of surgery, there are inherent risks associated with the procedure, which include post operative swelling, bleeding and noticeable scarring. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and discuss all of their concerns about the procedure with Dr. Cook during their consultation.

 Common Questions About the
Quicklift^™ Weekend Facelift

Is this procedure a proven medical procedure?

Yes, variations of the Quicklift™ procedure have been performed for more than 30 years; however, the technique, recovery time and results vary with each doctor and patient, respectively.

Will the scars be noticeable?

Most Quicklift™ patients who have followed post-op care instructions say the scars are virtually undetectable. The incision is carefully positioned along the sideburn area, behind the tragus of the ear, and under and behind the earlobe along the hairline.

What type of anesthesia is administered?

The Quicklift™ is performed with local anesthesia, which makes the procedure painless and minimizes the chance of complications. Oral premedication is generally recommended to help relax the patient.

How long will the results last?

The procedure can erase up to ten years or more from your appearance almost instantly; however, afterwards, the normal aging process will resume. Many factors, including skin type, sun exposure and heredity all play a role in determining how long the results will last.

How do I know if I am a candidate for an Quicklift™?

If you are a healthy male or female between 40 and 65+ years of age and you have mild to moderate skin looseness in the lower region of your face (lower cheeks, jaw line, under your chin) you may be an candidate for the procedure.

For more information about the Quicklift™ procedure, please click on the link below:

Charlotte Ophthalmology Center for Facial Plastic Surgery currently has two locations: