As we age, the signs of aging often appear first in the center of the face, where sagging cheeks, under-eye hollows, and deep nasolabial folds can create a tired or droopy appearance. A midface lift, also known as a cheek lift, lifts the malar fat pads, smooths the skin of the midface, and restores youthful fullness for a refreshed, natural appearance. This cosmetic surgical procedure is a good option for patients wishing to address localized concerns in the midface with a less invasive surgery than a full facelift.
Dr. Brad Gandolfi is a double board-certified plastic surgeon known in New York City and beyond for his advanced surgical techniques, emphasis on safety, and exceptionally natural-looking results. His approach creates subtle yet powerful rejuvenation while maintaining your unique expression. Schedule your consultation today to discuss your aesthetic goals, have all your questions answered, and explore your options for midface rejuvenation.
A midface lift, or mid facelift procedure, is a cosmetic surgery technique that targets the area between the lower eyelids and upper lip. This surgical procedure rejuvenates the middle portion of the face by lifting deep tissues and underlying muscles, repositioning malar fat pads, and tightening the remaining skin to restore natural volume and definition.
Over time, gravity and facial volume loss can cause sunken cheeks, sagging skin, and deeper nasolabial folds. The midface lift directly addresses these concerns, restoring a natural, lifted curve to the cheeks and smoothing the transitions between the eyes, cheeks, and mouth.
The result is a naturally elevated, youthful midface that beautifully complements your facial structure and other features.
After an introductory phone call with our team, your journey begins with a personal consultation with Dr. Gandolfi. During this visit, you’ll discuss your goals, undergo a detailed physical examination, and review your options, from a midface lift alone to combining procedures like a lower facelift, neck lift, or upper facelift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Before your procedure, our team will provide instructions to help you prepare. This may include determining when to discontinue certain medications or supplements and planning your recovery period.
Midface lift surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia and sedation. It typically involves small incisions made either inside the lower eyelid or near the hairline at the temple. Through these access points, Dr. Gandolfi lifts the deep tissues, repositions fat pads, and tightens smooth muscle layers for lasting definition.
If needed, Dr. Gandolfi may also remove excess skin to refine the contours of the midface. The entire surgical procedure typically takes approximately two hours, although more extensive cases or combined procedures may require longer durations. Patients return home the same day with an aftercare plan in place.
A midface lift can correct a range of age-related concerns that affect the central face, including:
By lifting malar fat pads and restoring cheek volume, the mid facelift procedure rejuvenates the midface area, creating smoother transitions and a youthful, lifted look.
The midface lift repositions the underlying muscles and fat pads to create naturally more prominent cheekbones and a smoother midface contour.
By elevating the cheeks and softening nasolabial folds, the midface lift refreshes your appearance and smooths under-eye hollows without changing your unique expression.
Because the incision site is hidden inside the lower eyelid or along the temple, scarring is minimal and discreet.
The mid facelift procedure targets the midface and upper cheeks with minimal incisions, offering transformative results without the downtime of a traditional facelift or extensive procedure.
The midface lift enhances your appearance by restoring youthful contours beneath the eyes and cheeks, achieving harmony, lift, and confidence without appearing overdone.
You may be a good candidate for a midface lift if you:
This surgical procedure is often ideal for both men and women in their 40s to 60s seeking to restore midface volume and achieve more youthful contours with natural, long-lasting results.
After your midface lift surgery, you can expect mild swelling and bruising for the first 7–10 days. Using cold compresses and keeping your head elevated will help reduce discomfort during the first few days.
Most patients return to light activities within a week and resume regular routines after about two weeks. You’ll attend follow-up appointments with Dr. Gandolfi to monitor your healing and ensure optimal results. He will advise you on when it is safe to resume various levels of activity, including strenuous exercise.
Your recovery time will depend on the extent of your procedure, but most people find recovery surprisingly manageable.
You’ll notice improvement in the position and contours of your cheeks almost immediately, but post-surgical swelling will need to go down before you see your final results.
Expect continued refinement over several weeks as swelling subsides. Patients notice smoother transitions from the lower eyelids to the cheeks, enhanced volume and lift in the mid face, and a softening of deep nasolabial folds. Dr. Gandolfi’s meticulous techniques ensure natural-looking results that preserve your natural expression.
These results are long-lasting and age gracefully, often delaying the need for a full facelift or other cosmetic procedures. With good skincare and sun protection, your rejuvenated appearance can last 8–12 years or longer.
Performing a midface lift requires the artistry of a true expert. Dr. Brad Gandolfi, a board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in facial reconstruction, combines refined technique with a deep understanding of facial structure and balance.
At his boutique NYC practice, Dr. Gandolfi tailors every mid facelift procedure to the individual, often blending techniques for the best aesthetic outcome. Whether you’re looking to lift sagging skin, smooth out deep smile lines, or create more elevated cheekbones, Dr. Gandolfi’s approach achieves natural-looking, confident results.
To schedule your midface lift consultation, call (212) 287-7211 today.
A midface lift focuses on the cheeks and under-eye region, while a full facelift targets the lower face, and jawline. Dr. Gandolfi can help you determine which surgical techniques align with needs and aesthetic goals.
Most midface lifts are performed under general anesthesia.
Minimal incisions are made inside the lower eyelid or within the hairline, so scars are nearly invisible once healed.
You’ll see early improvements within two weeks, with your final results continuing to refine over several months as tissues settle and collagen strengthens.
Most patients enjoy their midface lift results for up to a decade or longer, especially when they maintain healthy habits and follow Dr. Gandolfi’s personalized care plan.
