Houston Plastic Surgery Blog

The first "modern day" facelift was performed a century ago. The procedure involved removing a small piece of skin from the patient’s scalp and stretching and pulling it up. The result mimicked the patient's hair being pulled into a tight ponytail. It was later discovered that detaching and re-positioning the facial skin would restore aged skin to its original position and keep the skin in place more effectively.

The Wind Tunnel Look

From 1920 to 1950, facelift techniques evolved and incisions were created longer and more dramatic. Eventually, the incision became one that surgeons use today: around or behind the ear, across the scalp. As this technique was developing, a common result was the "wind tunnel look" where the skin was pulled so tightly, patients appeared as though they were standing in a wind tunnel.

This outcome led to a deeper examination of the facial structures, and surgeons ultimately discovered that the underlying facial muscles could be lifted. In doing this, smaller amounts of skin could be lifted to create a smoother, younger appearance that did not appear "windblown."

The SMAS Technique

By the 1970s, the SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) facelift procedure was introduced; a technique that remains one of the most commonly used today. With this innovative technique, a flap elevates the platysma muscle of a patient’s neck and lower face without detaching the skin. By the 1990s, facelift techniques became less invasive, with smaller incisions and shorter recovery times.

If you are considering facelift surgery and you live in the Houston, Texas area, please contact highly trained Houston Facelift Surgeon Dr. Lapuerta to arrange your appointment and discuss your cosmetic options.