Clinical analysis of malar fat pad re-elevation.

Abstract

Primary suture suspension of the malar fat pad has been described as a safe and simple component of global facial rejuvenation. This review evaluates the efficacy and indications for re-elevation of the malar fat pad elevation. A retrospective review of the medical records of patients who underwent malar fat pad elevation was performed between 1994 and 2000. Of 472 procedures, 14 involved re-elevation of the malar fat pad. These cases were examined for complications, risks, and results. Secondary midface elevation was performed using a subcutaneous approach to the malar fat pad through a pre-hairline incision and vertical suspension of the malar fat pad to the temporoparietal fascia. The indications for re-elevation of the malar fat pad included nasolabial asymmetry, malar fat pad malposition, and malar fat pad asymmetry. Primary elevation of the malar fat was performed in 472 patients. Fourteen of these patients had suboptimal results that necessitated re-elevation of their malar fat pads. Their average age was 57.5 years. Of the 14 malar fat pad elevations, 12 included SMAS procedures, nine were combined with platysmal plication/submental lipectomy, six with forehead lift, and three with eyelid procedures. The average interval between original malar fat pad elevation and the re-elevation was 40 months. Average follow-up was 15 months. Complications were seen in five patients, with the most significant being persistent eye irritation. Two patients had some minimal scar hypertrophy, which was self-limiting. Minor preauricular skin slough developed in one patient. Restoration of the youthful position of the deep structures in patients with a previous mid-facelift was successfully achieved by re-elevating the malar fat pad in a vertical direction. Re-elevation of the malar fat pad demonstrated effective and reliable long-term results. It is appropriate in the small number of patients who require revision or improvement of midface rejuvenation using the malar fat pad suspension technique.