What Are the Best Procedures to Lift the Malar Fat Pad?

The malar fat pad, located between the lower eyelid and the jawline, plays a vital role in maintaining a youthful, contoured appearance. As we age, this area can sag, leading to a tired or hollow look. The most effective way to lift the malar fat pad is through a mid-facelift, and in some cases, a mini facelift may also be suitable. Centre for Surgery is a specialist in minimally invasive facelifts, including an endoscopic mid-facelift without the scars of traditional surgery.

A mid-facelift targets the middle of the face, repositioning sagging tissues to restore fullness and improve the contours of the cheeks. For those with milder signs of ageing, a mini facelift can offer similar benefits with less extensive surgery. Both options provide more lasting and natural results compared to minimally invasive techniques like thread lifts, which only offer temporary improvements.

Fat grafting is often combined with the procedure to enhance the results of a mid-facelift. This involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the midface, restoring volume and creating a more balanced, youthful look. These techniques address both sagging and volume loss, providing a comprehensive and long-lasting rejuvenation.

RELATED: Can You Combine Facial Fat Transfer With a Facelift?

What Is the Malar Fat Pad?

The malar fat pad is a key anatomical feature of the face, often referred to as the “apple of the cheek.” This fat pad is located in the front part of the cheek, sitting between the lower eyelid and the upper jaw. Its prominence and position give the cheeks their characteristic fullness and youthful contour.

In a youthful face, the malar fat pad is naturally elevated, creating a smooth transition from the under-eye area to the cheek. However, as we age, gravity, skin laxity, and loss of volume can cause this fat pad to descend, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance and the deepening of lines, such as the nasolabial folds.

The malar fat pad plays a significant role in defining the midface’s overall structure, and its position and volume are crucial for a youthful and balanced appearance. Maintaining or restoring its fullness is often a primary goal in facial rejuvenation procedures.

What Is the Difference Between the Malar Fat Pad and the Buccal Fat Pad?

The malar fat pad and the buccal fat pad are two distinct areas of fat in the face, each located in different layers and playing separate roles in facial structure and aesthetics. These fat compartments are part of the intricate anatomy that gives the face its shape and volume, but they differ in both position and function.

The malar fat pad is situated in the front part of the cheek. It lies beneath the skin but is more superficial compared to the buccal fat pad. Positioned higher on the face, under the eyes and over the cheekbones, the malar fat pad contributes to the youthful fullness and contour of the midface. As we age, this fat pad can lose volume or shift downward, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance in the upper cheek area. Rejuvenation techniques, such as facelifts or fat grafting, often target the malar fat pad to restore its natural lift and volume, enhancing the overall facial contour.

In contrast, the buccal fat pad is found in the lower part of the cheek, just outside the corners of the mouth. It resides in a deeper layer of the face, beneath the muscles responsible for facial expressions. The compartment containing the buccal fat pad is much larger than that of the malar fat pad, extending from the lower cheek to just below the cheekbone. This fat pad plays a role in the roundness of the lower face, and when prominent, it can create a fuller, softer appearance. Procedures such as buccal fat removal focus on this area to reduce volume and create a more defined lower cheek and jawline.

Can the Malar Fat Pad Be Removed?

While it is technically possible to remove the malar fat pad, it is not advisable due to the significant impact it has on facial aesthetics. The malar fat pad is a crucial component of a youthful and healthy appearance, contributing to the fullness and contour of the cheeks. Removing this fat pad would leave the face looking flat, uneven, and aged. A lack of volume in this area often creates a gaunt, hollow, or unwell appearance, which is why many individuals seek treatments like cheek fillers to restore this very fullness.

Some people with fuller faces or drooping malar fat pads may mistakenly believe that removing this fat would improve their appearance. However, removing the malar fat pad is rarely a good option. Aside from the aesthetic concerns, the procedure would be challenging to perform without creating visible scars due to the fat pad’s location. Instead of removal, modern cosmetic techniques focus on repositioning and enhancing the malar fat pad to achieve better results.

An endoscopic mid-facelift is an excellent alternative for addressing concerns related to the malar fat pad. This minimally invasive procedure repositions the fat pad to a higher, more youthful position, restoring volume and improving the contour of the cheeks. By lifting the sagging tissues rather than removing them, a mid-facelift maintains the natural fullness of the face while addressing drooping or unevenness. This approach avoids the undesirable effects of fat removal and preserves the soft, rounded features associated with a youthful appearance.

Endoscopic Mid-Facelift at Centre for Surgery

At Centre for Surgery, we specialise in advanced facial rejuvenation techniques, including the highly effective endoscopic mid-facelift. This innovative procedure is designed to restore a youthful, natural appearance by targeting sagging in the midface, lifting the cheeks, and improving facial contours. With state-of-the-art facilities located in the heart of London on Baker Street, our expert team of plastic surgeons delivers exceptional results tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Why Choose Centre for Surgery for an Endoscopic Mid-Facelift?

At our clinic, we pride ourselves on offering personalised care and cutting-edge surgical techniques. The endoscopic mid-facelift uses minimally invasive methods, meaning smaller incisions and a quicker recovery period. This approach allows for precise repositioning of the malar fat pad and other midface tissues, addressing volume loss and sagging without compromising natural facial harmony. Whether you are experiencing early signs of ageing or seeking a refreshed, youthful look, our team ensures you receive care of the highest standard.

Real Patients, Real Results

• Sophia’s Experience: “I couldn’t be happier with the results of my mid-facelift. The care and attention I received at Centre for Surgery were second to none. Dr Jabir explained every step of the process, and the result is so natural—I look refreshed without feeling overdone.”
• James’ Story: “As a man, I was initially apprehensive about undergoing a facial procedure, but the team at Centre for Surgery made me feel completely at ease. My endoscopic mid-facelift has given me a more youthful and confident appearance, and the recovery was much quicker than I expected.”
• Anita’s Journey: “After years of feeling self-conscious about my sagging cheeks, I decided to consult Centre for Surgery. Their expertise and professionalism exceeded my expectations, and I’m thrilled with the results. My mid-facelift has transformed my confidence.”

Book Your Consultation Today

If you’re considering an endoscopic mid-facelift, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us at 0207 993 4849 or email us at contact@centreforsurgery.com to book your consultation. You can also visit our Baker Street clinic, conveniently located at 95–97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN, to discuss your options in person.

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Centre for Surgery is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with confidence and peace of mind. Start your journey to a more youthful appearance today.