The S-lift, or J-lift, is a “mini” facelift technique which can improve the appearance of mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and neck. The term “S-lift” is commonly applied to a variety of surgical procedures which can rejuvenate the face using some form of small incision while also allowing for a shorter recovery and fewer risks compared to a traditional full facelift. The procedure can provide a more youthful and refreshed appearance to the face.
S-Lift Before and After Photos
* All patients are unique and individual results may vary.
Good candidates for the S-lift include healthy men and women who are looking to improve a mild to moderate degree of sagging in the face and neck. For those who are willing to accept a definite but more moderate improvement in exchange for a less invasive, less costly procedure with a shorter recovery, the S-lift can be ideal.
It is important to note that no one procedure fits all. Even short scar lifts can be tailored to each individual using a variety of “extensions” which can maximize the results without performing a full facelift. Dr. Schwartz will be happy to meet with you for a consultation at his West Palm Beach, Florida location to discuss the options available to you.
The S-Lift Procedure
Dr. Schwartz performs the S-lift in his office-based surgical facility with local anesthesia. The procedure takes about one and a half hours to complete. The incision for the S-lift is most commonly limited to the area of the sideburn and inside the front of the ear. However, the incision can be tailored to each individual patient in any number of ways in order to maximize the results. In order to achieve the best results, Dr. Schwartz does not rely on skin tightening alone as this may easily fail due to inherent skin elasticity or create an unnaturally pulled look. Instead, he always utilizes techniques that tighten and sculpt the underlying muscles, connective tissues or SMAS, and fat.
After the S-Lift Surgery
The recovery after the S-lift takes about three to five days. Patients may experience some minor bruising and swelling. Discomfort tends to be minimal and can be treated with medication. The stitches are removed within five to seven days. Most patients can return to work in about three to five days though more strenuous activities should be avoided for two weeks.
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S-Lift FAQs
The S-Lift, or J-Lift, is a type of “mini” facelift procedure that improves the appearance of mild to moderate face and neck sagging. The term S-lift refers to a number of techniques which restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance with less extensive incisions, shorter recovery times, and fewer risks as compared to a traditional facelift.
The S-lift can treat the lower third of the face and neck but it will not affect the position of the brow and forehead or the appearance of the eyelids. While results can be significant, they are generally more moderate compared to a traditional facelift.
Healthy men and women who are not interested in undergoing major surgery but would like to improve the appearance of mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face and neck may be good candidates for an S-lift. This is an ideal procedure for those willing to accept more moderate but still definite improvement in exchange for a quicker recovery and a less costly, less invasive procedure.
During the consultation with Dr. Schwartz you will discuss what it is that you dislike about your facial appearance and what you hope to achieve through surgery. Your face and skin will be examined, a thorough medical history taken, and your options discussed. All details of the S-lift procedure will be explained and any questions or concerns that you have will be addressed.
Dr. Schwartz performs the S-lift in his office-based surgical facility.
Dr. Schwartz performs the S-lift with local anesthesia.
Once anesthesia is administered, a narrow ‘S’-shaped incision is made within the hairline and inside the ear. The skin is lifted, underlying muscles and tissues are repositioned and tightened, and redundant fat and skin are removed.
The S-lift procedure takes about one and a half hours to perform.
The incision for the S-lift is located within the hairline and inside of the ear and is shaped like a narrow ‘S’.
The incision made for the S-lift is hidden within the hairline and inside of the ear, resulting in a well-concealed scar.
There can be some minor discomfort after the S-lift which can be managed with medication.
Patients can expect a recovery time of about three to five days after the S-lift. Some minor bruising and swelling may occur, along with some minor discomfort which can be controlled with medication. Stitches are removed within five to seven days. Patients can usually return to work in three to five days, though more strenuous activities will need to be postponed for about two weeks.
Patients can usually return to work within three to five days after the S-lift.
Exercise and other strenuous activities may need to be postponed for at least two weeks after the S-lift.
The stitches are removed within five to seven days after the S-lift.
While the potential complications associated with S-lift are less than those associated with a traditional facelift, there are still some risks which may include adverse anesthesia reactions, asymmetry, bleeding, excessive scarring, infection, and poor healing.
S-lifts procedures that are performed for cosmetic reasons are generally not covered by insurance, though patients should consult with their own insurance carrier.
There are financing options available for many plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery procedures.
If you live in the state of Florida, Palm Beach Face: Michael L. Schwartz, MD offers S-lift among its services. For a full list of services, please visit our Locations page.
Why choose Dr. Schwartz?
- Dr. Michael Schwartz is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and American Board of Otolaryngology.
- MD from Baylor College of Medicine, where he completed his General Surgery Residency at Beth Israel Medical Center and ENT Residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center.
- He is also a fellow of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the American College of Surgeons.
- Dr. Schwartz is an active staff member with Good Samaritan Medical Center, West Palm Beach, Florida.
- He has over 30 years of experience as a plastic surgeon and is extensively trained in the latest advancements in facial plastic surgery.