What is Mid Facelift Surgery? Complete Guide to Cheek Lifts & Vertical Facelifts
A mid facelift, also known as a cheek lift, is a specialized facial rejuvenation procedure designed to lift and restore volume to the middle third of your face. This minimally invasive surgical technique targets the areas most affected by aging including the nasolabial folds, under-eye region, and deflated cheeks to create a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
At Dr. Metin Kerem’s practice in Istanbul, we customize mid facelift procedures to address each patient’s unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals, delivering natural-looking results that restore facial harmony and confidence.
Why Choose a Mid Facelift? Key Benefits
Targeted Facial Rejuvenation A mid facelift directly addresses the visible signs of aging in the central face. Unlike full facelifts that reshape the entire face, this procedure focuses on lifting sagging cheeks and smoothing nasolabial lines for a more defined, youthful contour.
Restored Volume and Definition The procedure restores volume loss around the cheeks and lower eyelids, eliminating the flat, tired appearance that develops with age. By repositioning facial tissues, we create natural-looking fullness that enhances facial structure.
Less Invasive Than Full Facelifts Mid facelifts require smaller incisions than traditional facelifts, resulting in faster recovery times, reduced scarring, and less post-operative discomfort. Most patients return to daily activities within 10-15 days.
Long-Lasting Results Results typically last 10-15 years, depending on your skin quality, lifestyle, and how you age. Maintaining sun protection and a healthy lifestyle can help extend these impressive results.
Enhanced Confidence A rejuvenated mid-face creates an immediate confidence boost, eliminating signs of fatigue and aging while maintaining your natural facial characteristics.
Mid Facelift Surgery Techniques: Which Method is Right for You?
Different facial anatomy requires different surgical approaches. Dr. Metin Kerem evaluates each patient’s unique facial structure to determine the most effective technique for optimal results.
1. Endoscopic Mid Facelift – Advanced Precision
The endoscopic mid facelift uses a specialized camera device to provide precise visualization of the surgical area. This advanced technique allows for smaller incisions, typically half to one inch in length, which accelerates healing while enabling the surgeon to access deeper facial tissues beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System).
Benefits of Endoscopic Approach:
- Smaller incisions mean faster healing and minimal scarring
- Enhanced visualization for precise tissue repositioning
- Ability to reach deeper facial planes for longer-lasting results
- Reduced trauma to surrounding tissues
- Lower complication rates when performed by board-certified surgeons
2. Mid Facelift via Lower Eyelid Incision – Specialized Approach
This technique involves creating an incision along the inner aspect of the lower eyelid, allowing the surgeon to lift and reposition the lower cheek to a higher facial level. While less commonly used due to individual anatomical considerations, this approach can be effective for specific patient cases.
The result is a smoother, more defined facial appearance with improved under-eye hollowing and cheek projection.
3. Mid Facelift Combined with Temple Lift – Dr. Metin Kerem’s Preferred Method
Dr. Metin Kerem typically combines the mid facelift with a simultaneous temple lift. This combined approach addresses a critical aesthetic concern: when the mid-face is lifted, the eyebrows can appear relatively droopy by comparison.
By lifting both the mid-face and temples simultaneously through endoscopic visualization, we achieve several benefits:
- Balanced lifting of the entire upper face
- Prevention of the “bulging” effect under the brows
- Elimination of excess skin accumulation
- Natural-looking brow elevation without separate procedures
- Comprehensive correction of aging signs across the upper two-thirds of the face
This combined technique delivers superior facial harmony, addressing nasolabial folds, droopy cheeks, and brow descent in a single procedure.
Before Your Mid Facelift Surgery: Comprehensive Preparation Guide
Medical Evaluation and Testing
Your mid facelift journey begins with an in-depth consultation. During this appointment, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Metin Kerem, who will evaluate whether you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure. He’ll review your facial structure, skin quality, and medical history to create a personalized surgical plan.
Following your consultation, standard pre-operative testing ensures you’re medically cleared for surgery under general anesthesia.
Medication Management
Certain medications and supplements interfere with the healing process or increase bleeding risk. You’ll need to discontinue:
- Aspirin and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Blood-thinning medications (warfarin, apixaban, etc.)
- Herbal supplements (St. John’s Wort, ginkgo biloba, garlic supplements)
- Vitamin E supplements (high doses)
- Birth control medications
Continue taking all other medications as prescribed unless Dr. Metin Kerem advises otherwise.
Smoking Cessation
Smoking severely compromises the healing process by reducing blood flow to surgical sites. We strongly recommend stopping smoking at least one week before surgery. Ideally, quit as early as possible in your preparation phase the longer you’ve been smoke-free, the better your results.
Pre-Surgery Lifestyle Adjustments
- Avoid alcohol for at least one week before surgery
- Stop eating and drinking 6 hours before your procedure
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamins to support healing
- Stay hydrated in the days leading up to surgery
- Arrange post-operative support — have someone available to assist you during the first few days of recovery
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Plan to arrive early for final preparations. You’ll undergo anesthesia, and Dr. Metin Kerem will begin the procedure. A mid facelift typically takes approximately 2 hours, after which you’ll spend the first night in our facility for observation and recovery initiation.
The Mid Facelift Procedure: Step-by-Step Surgical Process
Step 1: Anesthesia Administration
Your mid facelift is performed under general anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort and safety throughout the procedure. An anesthesiologist monitors your vital signs continuously.
Step 2: Strategic Incision Placement
Incisions are carefully placed in inconspicuous locations—typically within the temples and hidden within the hairline or the natural crease of the lower eyelid. For endoscopic procedures, incisions are kept remarkably small (typically ½ to 1 inch), which is possible due to the precision camera guidance.
Step 3: Tissue Dissection and Assessment
Dr. Metin Kerem carefully dissects the skin and underlying tissues, exposing the facial muscles and connective tissues responsible for sagging. This allows for direct visualization and assessment of which structures need repositioning.
Step 4: Strategic Tissue Repositioning
The key to a successful mid facelift lies in precise repositioning. Facial muscles and tissues that have descended with age are lifted and secured at a higher, more youthful position. This repositioning restores cheek projection, smooths nasolabial folds, and lifts the lower eyelid area.
Step 5: Incision Closure and Dressing
Once tissues are securely positioned and excess skin is addressed, incisions are meticulously closed with sutures. Your face is then covered with sterile bandages and protective dressings to support healing.
Mid Facelift Recovery Timeline: What to Expect Week-by-Week
Immediate Post-Operative (Day 1)
You’ll wake from anesthesia with bandages covering your surgical sites. Some dizziness is normal as anesthesia wears off. Keep your head elevated to minimize swelling. Your face may feel numb or tingly this is expected. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
Days 2-3: Initial Swelling and Bruising
Swelling and bruising intensify as your body’s natural healing response begins. Rest as much as possible. On day 3, you’ll have your first post-operative check-up with Dr. Metin Kerem’s team, who will assess your healing and provide additional care instructions.
Days 4-6: Gradual Improvement Begins
Swelling begins to slowly subside, and bruising becomes less noticeable. Continue resting indoors and following all post-operative instructions. Avoid strenuous activities and maintain head elevation when possible.
Days 7-14: Returning to Daily Routine
By day 10, most bruising visibly subsides. Swelling persists but is less pronounced. You may experience tingling, numbness, or tightness around the face all normal sensations that will resolve. You can return to light work and daily activities, though strenuous exercise remains off-limits.
Days 15-30: Progressive Facial Definition
Light exercise can resume. Swelling and tightness continue to decrease gradually. Your facial contours become more defined, though some residual swelling remains. Sunscreen use becomes crucial.
Months 2-3: Approaching Final Results
One month post-surgery, you can resume normal exercise routines including jogging, yoga, and swimming. Most swelling resolves by this point. Final results begin emerging around the 3-month mark as all swelling completely subsides and tissues settle into their new positions.
Beyond 3 Months: Enjoying Your Results
Final results are typically visible by month 3 post-operative. Your rejuvenated mid-face reveals lifted cheeks, smoothed nasolabial folds, and a naturally youthful appearance that maintains harmony with your other facial features. In some cases the results may take longer (6 months) to become visible as well.
Post-Operative Care Instructions: Optimizing Your Healing
First Week:
- Keep your head elevated (even while sleeping)
- Apply ice packs for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling
- Avoid showering for 3 days; when you do shower, keep your face dry
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
- Eat soft, cool foods to minimize discomfort
Weeks 2-4:
- Begin gentle facial movements and light stretching
- Continue sun protection with SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Avoid direct sun exposure whenever possible
- Resume light exercise (walking, gentle yoga)
- Maintain head elevation during sleep
Months 2-3:
- Resume all normal activities gradually
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until month 2
- Continue sunscreen application daily
- Stay hydrated and maintain healthy nutrition
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
Important Restrictions:
- No heavy lifting until 6 weeks post-operative
- No intense cardio, weight training, or contact sports until 8 weeks
- Avoid extreme temperatures (saunas, hot tubs) for at least 2 weeks
- Do not resume makeup application until day 7 at earliest
- Avoid facial treatments and aggressive skincare for 4 weeks
Am I a Good Candidate for Mid Facelift Surgery?
Ideal Candidate Profile
You may be an excellent candidate for a mid facelift if you experience:
Visible Aging Signs in the Mid-Face:
- Prominent nasolabial folds (lines running from nose to mouth corners)
- Sagging or deflated cheeks
- Loss of cheek projection and definition
- Under-eye hollowing and sagging
General Qualifications:
- Good overall health with stable medical conditions
- Realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Commitment to pre- and post-operative care guidelines
- Non-smoker or willing to quit before surgery
- Sufficient skin elasticity for optimal results
When a Full Facelift Might Be Better
If you experience significant sagging and jowling in the lower face and jawline, a full facelift may be more appropriate than a mid facelift. During your consultation, Dr. Metin Kerem will recommend the procedure best suited to your concerns.
Initial Consultation
Schedule a face-to-face or virtual consultation with Dr. Metin Kerem to assess your candidacy. Bring photos of your desired results and be prepared to discuss your aesthetic goals honestly. Dr. Metin Kerem will provide realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve for your specific facial structure.
Possible Risks and Complications: Understanding the Facts
Like all surgical procedures, mid facelift surgery carries potential risks. However, when performed by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon using proper techniques, serious complications are rare.
Temporary Complications (Most Common)
Swelling and Bruising: Expect significant swelling and bruising in the immediate post-operative period. These are normal healing responses and typically resolve within 2-4 weeks.
Numbness and Tingling: Temporary nerve irritation may cause facial numbness or tingling, particularly around the cheeks and temples. These sensations typically resolve within weeks to a few months.
Tightness and Discomfort: Facial tightness is normal during healing and gradually improves as tissues adapt to their new positions.
Less Common Complications
Hematoma (Blood Collection): Small collections of blood may accumulate under the skin, usually reabsorbing on their own. Larger hematomas may require drainage.
Nerve Injury: Temporary facial nerve irritation can cause weakness or asymmetry, though permanent damage is extremely rare with experienced surgeons. Most cases resolve completely within weeks.
Infection: Infection is uncommon but can occur. Strict adherence to post-operative care instructions minimizes this risk.
Bleeding: Minor bleeding is normal; excessive bleeding is rare and manageable with proper wound care.
Skin Irregularities: Temporary skin texture changes or discoloration occasionally occur and typically resolve during healing.
Hair Loss: Temporary hair loss at incision sites may occur but regrows as healing completes.
Minimizing Complication Risk
Follow these guidelines to significantly reduce complication risk:
- Quit smoking at least one week before surgery (ideally longer)
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications and supplements
- Follow all pre-operative preparation instructions
- Strictly adhere to post-operative care guidelines
- Maintain open communication with Dr. Metin Kerem’s team
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period
Combining Mid Facelift with Other Procedures
Comprehensive Facial Rejuvenation
Many patients benefit from combining the mid facelift with additional procedures to address multiple aging concerns comprehensively. By combining procedures, we create facial harmony across all regions while maximizing surgical efficiency.
Popular Mid Facelift Combinations
The Mid Facelift + Temple Lift Duo This is our most frequently recommended combination, lifting the entire upper two-thirds of the face simultaneously and preventing the appearance of drooping brows relative to lifted cheeks.
The Mid Facelift + Temple Lift + Brow Lift Trio Regarded as the gold standard combination, this comprehensive approach lifts the entire upper face cheeks, temples, and entire brow region, creating a completely rejuvenated upper facial appearance.
Mid Facelift + Temple Lift + Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift) This combination addresses excess upper eyelid skin, hooded eyes, and mid-face sagging simultaneously, eliminating the tired appearance around the entire eye region.
Mid Facelift + Temple Lift + Brow Lift + Upper Blepharoplasty The most comprehensive approach, this combination provides complete upper facial rejuvenation, addressing every sign of aging from the hairline to the upper lip.
Mid Facelift + Temple Lift + Neck Lift For patients with neck laxity, this combination extends rejuvenation down to the lower face and neck for harmonious results.
Mid Facelift + Temple Lift + Rhinoplasty Combines facial rejuvenation with nose reshaping for complete facial aesthetic harmony.
Why Combine Procedures?
When one area of the face is lifted, adjacent areas may appear less lifted by comparison. Combining procedures ensures balanced, harmonious results across the entire face. Additionally, combining procedures under a single anesthesia reduces overall surgical time and anesthesia exposure while allowing for coordinated healing.
Mid Facelift Results: Longevity and Maintenance
When Will I See Results?
Immediate Results (Days 1-2): You’ll notice immediate lifting, though significant swelling masks the true results.
Early Results (Weeks 2-4): As bruising fades, you’ll appreciate initial improvement in cheek position and nasolabial fold softening.
Progressive Results (Weeks 4-12): Swelling gradually decreases, and facial contours become increasingly defined.
Final Results (Month 3 Onward): By the third post-operative month, all swelling has resolved, and you’ll see the complete, final results of your procedure.
How Long Do Results Last?
Mid facelift results typically last 10-15 years, with longevity depending on several factors:
- Skin Quality: Better skin elasticity supports longer-lasting results
- Lifestyle Choices: Sun protection and healthy habits extend results
- Genetics: Your natural aging process influences longevity
- Sun Exposure: UV damage accelerates aging; strict sun protection maintains results longer
Maintaining Your Results Long-Term
Daily Sun Protection: Use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily without fail. UV exposure is the primary factor in skin aging and directly reduces result longevity. Begin sun protection immediately after surgery and maintain it indefinitely.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly. These habits support skin health and slow aging.
Skincare Routine: Invest in quality skincare products appropriate for your skin type. Retinoids, vitamin C serums, and hydrating moisturizers help maintain skin quality.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking accelerates skin aging and reduces blood flow to facial tissues, compromising results.
Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol dehydrates skin and accelerates aging. Moderate consumption is preferable.
Choosing Your Mid Facelift Surgeon: What Matters Most
Selecting the right surgeon is the most critical decision in your mid facelift journey. Your choice directly impacts your safety, satisfaction, and results.
Essential Surgeon Qualifications
Board Certification: Verify that your surgeon is board-certified by recognized bodies such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or equivalent international certifications. Ask to see credentials and verify them independently.
Specialization in Facial Surgery: Choose a surgeon who specializes in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, with extensive specific experience in mid facelifts and related procedures.
Extensive Experience: Inquire about the number of mid facelifts your surgeon has performed. Surgeons with hundreds of procedures under their belt demonstrate mastery.
Before-and-After Portfolio: Request comprehensive before-and-after photos of previous mid facelift patients. Review a substantial gallery to assess the surgeon’s aesthetic sense and consistency of results.
During Your Consultation
Assess Your Comfort Level: Your first impression of the surgeon matters enormously. You should feel heard, respected, and confident in their recommendations. Don’t proceed with a surgeon you don’t feel completely comfortable with.
Discuss the Surgical Plan: Have your surgeon explain your specific surgical plan in detail. Understand which technique will be used, why it’s appropriate for your anatomy, and what results are realistic for you.
Ask About Facility Accreditation: Ensure your surgery will be performed in an accredited surgical facility that meets international safety and hygiene standards.
Review Patient Testimonials: Read independent reviews and testimonials from previous patients. Look for patterns in feedback regarding results, professionalism, and patient care.
Request Video Consultation (If International): If you’re traveling for surgery, schedule an online video consultation before booking your flight. This allows you to assess the surgeon and facility virtually before making travel commitments.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Surgeons who can’t provide extensive before-and-after photos
- Facilities that appear unsanitary or poorly maintained
- Pressure to book surgery immediately without adequate consultation
- Unrealistic promises about results or recovery times
- Surgeons who dismiss your concerns or questions
- Lack of clearly defined complication management protocols
Frequently Asked Questions About Mid Facelift Surgery
How is a mid facelift different from a full facelift?
A full facelift addresses sagging throughout the entire face, including the jawline and lower face. A mid facelift specifically targets the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and under-eye area. Mid facelifts are less invasive with shorter recovery times, while full facelifts provide more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dr. Metin Kerem will recommend which approach suits your specific concerns.
What type of anesthesia is used during mid facelift surgery?
All mid facelift procedures are performed under general anesthesia, ensuring your complete comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
How long does the mid facelift procedure take?
A typical mid facelift takes approximately 2 hours. Combined procedures (such as mid facelift plus temple lift plus brow lift) may take 3-4 hours depending on the specific procedures performed.
Where are the incisions made, and will they be visible?
Incisions are strategically placed in inconspicuous locations—typically within the temples and along the hairline, or within the natural crease of the lower eyelid. Endoscopic procedures use particularly small incisions (½-1 inch). Once healed, incisions are well-hidden by hair and natural facial contours, making scarring virtually undetectable.
Is mid facelift surgery painful?
Rather than significant pain, patients report tightness, swelling, and mild discomfort in the first week. Prescribed pain medication manages any discomfort effectively. Most patients describe the sensation as “tightness” rather than pain.
When can I return to work?
Most patients can return to light desk work around day 10-14 post-operative, though facial swelling will still be evident. By 2-3 weeks, you can return to normal work activities. Timeline may vary based on your job’s physical demands.
When can I resume exercise and physical activities?
Light activities like walking can begin around week 2. Gentle yoga and stretching start around week 3. Moderate cardio, swimming, and jogging can resume around week 6-8. Heavy lifting and intense weight training should wait until at least 6-8 weeks post-operative.
What is the recovery timeline?
Acute recovery (when most swelling and bruising subside) takes about 2 weeks. However, subtle swelling may persist for 2-3 months. Final results become apparent around month 3 post-operative.
Will I have visible scarring?
Scarring is minimal and well-hidden due to strategic incision placement within natural facial creases and the hairline. As scars mature over 6-12 months, they fade significantly and become virtually undetectable.
How long do mid facelift results last?
Results typically last 10-15 years, depending on your skin quality, genetics, lifestyle, and how you age. While aging continues naturally, your face will look significantly more youthful than if you hadn’t had the procedure.
Can a mid facelift be combined with other procedures?
Absolutely. Mid facelifts are frequently combined with temple lifts, brow lifts, eyelid surgery, and neck lifts for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dr. Metin Kerem can recommend the ideal combination for your specific concerns.
Is mid facelift surgery covered by insurance?
No. Because mid facelift surgery is a cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by insurance. However, if the procedure is performed for reconstructive purposes following injury or medical necessity, partial coverage may be possible—discuss this with your insurance provider and Dr. Metin Kerem.
What happens if I’m not happy with my results?
Revision surgery is occasionally necessary if results don’t meet expectations. Dr. Metin Kerem discusses potential revision procedures during your consultation and ensures you understand all expectations before proceeding.
How much does mid facelift surgery cost?
Cost varies based on the specific techniques used, whether procedures are combined, and facility fees. After your consultation, the team will provide a detailed cost estimate after Dr. Metin Kerem evaluates your specific needs.
Ready to Begin Your Mid Facelift Journey?
Your transformation toward a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance begins with a single decision: scheduling your consultation with Dr. Metin Kerem.
The Path Forward
Step 1: Schedule Your Consultation Contact Dr. Metin Kerem’s Istanbul practice to arrange your in-person or virtual consultation. Bring reference photos of your desired results.
Step 2: Comprehensive Evaluation During your consultation, Dr. Metin Kerem will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the ideal approach for your unique needs.
Step 3: Personalized Treatment Planning We’ll create a detailed surgical plan tailored to your specific concerns, explaining exactly what will be addressed and what results to expect.
Step 4: Pre-Operative Preparation Follow all pre-operative guidelines to optimize your healing and results. We’ll provide detailed instructions for medication management, lifestyle adjustments, and recovery preparation.
Step 5: Your Procedure On surgery day, you’ll receive expert care in our accredited facility with Dr. Metin Kerem performing your procedure with precision and artistry.
Step 6: Guided Recovery We’ll support your healing journey with detailed post-operative care instructions, regular follow-up appointments, and accessible support from our experienced team.
Step 7: Enjoying Your Results By month 3, you’ll fully appreciate your rejuvenated mid-face, looking refreshed, youthful, and natural while maintaining your unique facial characteristics.
Contact Dr. Metin Kerem Today
Don’t let the signs of aging hold you back. Schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Metin Kerem in Istanbul and discover how a midface lift can restore your youthful appearance and self-confidence.
We welcome patients from around the world and offer comprehensive support to our international clients, including virtual consultations and coordinated, personalized care.