MACS = Minimal Access Cranial Suspension
There are many types and terms for facelifts.
Those of you who have read my opinion piece on the philosophy of facelift surgery will understand my thoughts on facial surgery in general and this article will explain to you why I use the MACS technique. It was originally described by 2 surgeons in Belgium called Patrick Tonnard and Alexis Verpaele and has a number of principles which I think are important.
The major take home points on MACS Facelift are listed below.
- A shorter scar
- Less undermining of the skin
- Dissection in a superficial plane immediately under the skin
- Two or three sutures to suspend the fascia of the face (SMAS)
- Supension of the face in a vertical dimension
Before any surgery, we recommend you consult a qualified health practitioner who should discuss with you at length all risks including possible complications and recovery/aftercare instructions specific to your procedure.
The reasons I use this technique are –
- It has a lower rate of facial nerve injury
- It has a smaller scar which is well placed and preserves the normal hairline
- The suture suspension gives an adequate suspension without being overdone
- The vertical suspension is anti-gravity
In my experience, though it does have its deficiencies, my personal modification of this technique is designed to address such issues. First, I believe the dissection in the plane does not go far enough so I extend the dissection further. The results I have seen presented in international meetings also don’t adequately address the neck and so my version of the MACS is more aggressive in lifting the neck to try and prevent secondary relapse of loose neck skin. Thirdly, I nearly always use the midface suture to address the cheek region. This also has a pronounced effect on the nasolabial folds.
This opinion piece was brought to you by Dr Damien Grinsell (AHPRA Registration: MED0001207555), Registered medication practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialty registration in surgery – plastic surgery)
It is important to remember, any invasive procedure carries risks and individual results may vary depending on factors, not limited to but including age, genetics, diet, lifestyle and existing medical conditions. If unsure, always seek a second opinion from a specialist plastic surgeon.
