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What is a midface lift?

The loss of collagen, elastin, and facial fat affects the cheeks and beneath the eyes, leaving a fatigued, hollow look that no face creams or makeup can hide. A midface lift elevates the natural fat pad at the cheeks, called the “malar fat pad,” to restore fullness. This surgery may be the ideal treatment for those who are experiencing sunken under-eyes and sagging cheek tissues.

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What is the procedure? Elevate your look with a custom midface lift.

A midface lift is an advancement in aesthetic surgery and can be performed as a standalone treatment, or in combination with other facial procedures. The surgery takes about an hour or 90 minutes to complete. An incision is placed beneath the lower eyelids, through which Dr. Graw meticulously repositions the fat pad, creating a youthful, smooth contour from beneath the eyes to the upper cheeks, and softening smile lines. 

The elevated tissues are delicately secured, and excess sagging skin may be removed for a smooth, youthful look. Every person has a unique facial structure, and when performed by Dr. Graw, the surgical plan for a midface lift Palo Alto is 100 percent customized. For some patients, a midface lift may be performed through an incision at the hairline and around the ears, laparoscopically lifting and securing sagging cheek tissues. We also provide services in Menlo Park and Atherton CA. 

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Rejuvenate your midface region for a fresh, natural enhancement that lasts.

The results of a midface lift can last ten to fifteen years. Many patients undergo a combination of surgeries for a more comprehensive level of facial rejuvenation and may have a facelift to address the lower facial area, a midface lift, or an eyelift to address sagging eyelids.

Is a midface lift right for me?

Ideal candidates for a midface lift in Palo Alto are those experiencing visible signs of facial aging, including:

  • The face has developed a sunken look
  • The under-eye area looks gaunt
  • The natural cheek fat has drifted lower on the face

If you are in good general health, and safe to undergo surgery, you are likely a good candidate for this delicate procedure.

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What should I expect in the recovery from a midface lift?

The recovery from a midface lift takes one to two weeks. The process of healing is typically fast and reasonably comfortable to experience. It is normal to experience some swelling and bruising in the first few days, peaking at day three. Sleep with your head elevated, on your back, and follow all aftercare instructions. Avoid any strenuous physical activities for several weeks to allow the tissues to heal and settle into place. You should feel ready to reveal your refreshed look within about ten days. As the incisions are hidden in the eyelash line, any surgical scars fade to being virtually invisible.

Midface Lift FAQs

Why choose a midface lift instead of a full Palo Alto facelift?

How is a midface lift different from fillers or injectables?

Can I get a midface lift instead of a lower facelift?

What makes a midface lift better than just doing skin tightening treatments?

Is a midface lift the best choice for early aging?

Why choose a midface lift instead of a full Palo Alto facelift?

A midface lift is ideal if your main concerns are sagging cheeks, volume loss under the eyes, or deepening smile lines but your jawline and neck still look youthful. It’s a more focused, less invasive option that addresses the center of the face without the downtime of a full facelift.

How is a midface lift different from fillers or injectables?

While fillers can temporarily restore cheek volume and soften folds, they don’t lift deeper tissues. A midface lift repositions the underlying structures of the face for longer-lasting, more structural improvement, especially when sagging is more pronounced.

Can I get a midface lift instead of a lower facelift?

It depends on your specific signs of aging. A midface lift won't correct jowls or neck laxity, so it’s best for patients whose concerns are limited to the mid-cheek area. Dr. Graw will help determine if a midface lift alone or combined with another procedure is right for you.

What makes a midface lift better than just doing skin tightening treatments?

Non-surgical treatments like lasers or ultrasound can improve skin texture and firmness, but they don’t reposition fat pads or muscle. A midface lift offers a deeper, more lasting result by addressing the root cause of volume loss and sagging.

Is a midface lift the best choice for early aging?

Yes. Especially if you're noticing subtle sagging in the cheeks and under-eye area in your 40s or early 50s. It’s a great option for those not yet ready for a full facelift but looking for a meaningful, natural-looking improvement.

Why choose Dr. Graw?

Dr. Grace Graw earned her medical degree from Harvard and completed her surgical residency at Stanford, followed by advanced fellowship training under world-renowned plastic surgeons. During this time, she mastered innovative techniques in facial rejuvenation that now define her refined, natural results.

Beyond her impressive credentials, Dr. Graw is known for her personalized approach and warm, attentive care. Patients seeking a midface lift in Palo Alto, Menlo Park & Atherton, CA trust her for her integrity, precision, and dedication to achieving beautifully subtle outcomes.

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