Journal of Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Vertical Improvement SMAS Suspension (VIPS) Facelift: Combining SMAS Plication and Retaining Ligament Preservation for Optimal Long-Term Results

Background: Facelift surgery, or rhytidectomy, aims to provide a rejuvenated appearance by addressing sagging skin, deep creases, and loss of muscle tone in the face and neck. The herein proposed technique combines both plications of the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS) and the platysm, as well as preservation of integral retaining ligaments of the face to allow for optimal results in facial rejuvenation.

Methods: A retrospective study was performed on n=209 cases undergoing our novel facelift procedure. During the follow-up period with an average of 3.5 years [range: 1-10] post-operatively, we evaluated the recurrences of nasolabial fold, jowls, marionette lines, and the centrallateral aspect of the neck.

Results: Significant improvements were reported in jawline contour, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and neck appearance, with the most stable results observed in the jawline area. Over the 10-year follow-up, a slight decline in these results was noted, but overall patient satisfaction remained high.

Conclusions: The novel face-lifting technique combines the plications of the SMAS and platysm with the preservation of retaining ligaments, offering a new surgical approach for facelift surgery. This approach provides reliable long-term results comparable to more invasive methods, yet with a lower risk of postoperative complications. Future studies are warranted to determine long-term outcomes in a multicenter and multi-surgeon setting.

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