What the Midface Is
The midface extends from the lower eyelid down to the level of the nostrils and includes the malar (cheek) fat pad, the suborbicularis oculi fat, and the underlying zygomatic bone. Descent of these structures produces tear-trough hollowing above and deepened nasolabial folds below.
Isolated Midface Lift Approaches
- Endoscopic midface lift: small temporal incisions, elevation of the malar fat pad
- Transconjunctival / transblepharoplasty midface lift: through a lower eyelid incision
- Suture suspension techniques: anchor midface tissue superiorly
Deep Plane Facelift vs Isolated Midface Lift
A deep plane facelift naturally repositions the midface as part of the composite flap — particularly when the extended technique is used. An isolated midface lift may be considered for younger patients with early midface descent but no jowling or neck laxity. For patients with combined midface descent plus lower-face and neck changes, a deep plane facelift is often more comprehensive.
Common Adjuncts
- Fat grafting to restore lost volume
- Lower blepharoplasty for tear-trough correction
Educational content only — not medical advice. Technique selection depends on individual anatomy. Results vary.
Medical Review
Reviewed by: Juan Cuellar, MD — Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
- Content reviewed
- Midface lift approaches, anatomy, and technique comparison.
- Last reviewed
- June 2026
Selected sources