A Deeper Look into the Endoscopic Meloplasty (Ponytail Facelift)
At Unveil Plastic Surgery, we are committed to providing clarity on the Endoscopic Meloplasty (also known as the Ponytail Lift), outlining its benefits, limitations, and ideal candidates. This approach targets the upper two-thirds of the face, focusing on reshaping and lifting the brow, forehead, and cheeks, achieving the effect of a high ponytail. Using discreet incisions hidden behind the hairline and an endoscope for visualisation, this approach often includes fat transfer (fat grafting) to restore volume and enhance facial contouring.
Is the Endoscopic Meloplasty (Ponytail Lift) Right for You?
This procedure is ideally suited for clients in their thirties and forties who are beginning to experience signs of aging, such as mild skin laxity in the upper face. The Endoscopic Meloplasty provides a subtle lift to the brow, cheeks, and upper eyelids. It’s important to note, however, that this technique primarily targets the upper face and does not fully address the midface, lower face, or neck. For those requiring a more comprehensive lift or significant skin removal, other meloplasty options—such as the Deep Plane Facelift or Neck Lift—may be more appropriate.
Traditional Facelift vs. Minimal Incision Meloplasty: What’s the Difference?
Facelift procedures generally fall into two categories: traditional facelift and minimal incision facelift. Extended approaches, such as the Deep Plane Facelift or Neck Lift, address the midface, lower face, and neck by lifting the deeper structures and skin. These techniques are ideal for clients with more advanced signs of aging.
In contrast, the Endoscopic Meloplasty (Ponytail Lift) is a minimal incision approach. With smaller, hidden incisions, it’s best suited for clients with mild to moderate skin laxity in the upper and midface. This approach provides a faster recovery time than traditional facelifts.
The Endoscopic Meloplasty (Ponytail Lift) Procedure
Performed under general anaesthesia, the Endoscopic Meloplasty typically takes around two hours, depending on the areas treated. An endoscope—a small camera—allows your surgeon to view the internal facial structures with magnification, enabling more precise adjustments.
In this procedure, the surgeon uses specific suturing techniques to create an upward lift that mimics the effect of a high ponytail. This approach carefully lifts and rotates the brow and cheeks, producing a lifted appearance with minimal scarring and a faster recovery time compared to traditional facelifts.
Benefits and Limitations of the Endoscopic Meloplasty (Ponytail Facelift)
Benefits:
- Small incisions for faster recovery
- Reduced scarring with hidden incisions behind the hairline
- Provides a subtle lift to the upper face and cheeks
Limitations:
- Limited to the upper and midface; does not address the lower face or neck
- May not be suitable for clients with significant skin laxity or volume loss
Recovery from the Endoscopic Meloplasty (Ponytail Facelift)
Recovery times vary, but most clients experience mild discomfort and can return to work within 10 to 14 days. The full results typically become visible 4 to 6 months post-procedure as the tissues settle into place.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does a Ponytail Lift do?
It provides a lift to the upper face, gently elevating the brow, cheeks, and upper eyelids for a subtle lift with a natural appearance. - How long does the Ponytail Lift last?
Results vary, but the effects generally last several years, depending on lifestyle and skincare practices. - What is the average cost of a Ponytail Lift?
Costs vary based on individual needs. It’s best to schedule a consultation to receive specific information. - What are the risks of a Ponytail Lift?
Risks may include temporary numbness, infection, or minor scarring, which can be discussed in detail with a specialist.
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About Dr Rodrigo Teixeira
Dr Rodrigo Teixeira, MD, FRACS, is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Melbourne, Australia, at Unveil Plastic Surgery in the heart of East Ivanhoe Village.
With extensive experience in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, nose, and breast, Dr Teixeira is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). He is also a respected member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). Internationally, he holds memberships in both the American and International Societies of Plastic Surgery.
Please note that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. To discuss your aesthetic goals or address any concerns about facial appearance or other cosmetic procedures, please consult with your general practitioner, who can provide a referral for a specialist surgeon consultation. For more information, contact us at (03) 9000 3800.