Elevation of the Malar Fat Pad With a Percutaneous Technique

Objective  To describe a simplified method of malar fat pad elevation to rejuvenate the midface, nasolabial folds, labiomental folds, infraorbital hollows, and jowls via a percutaneous approach. Patients and Design  One hundred eighteen patients were evaluated over a 12-month period in a prospective fashion by the operating surgeon. Preoperative and postoperative photographs were used for comparison. Setting  Private practice. Main Outcome Measures  Elevation of the malar fat pad by a measured amount. Results  At 3 months, all patients had a significant elevation of the malar fat pad (3-7 mm), with the exception of 2 early patients who underwent revision surgery, with satisfactory results. Conclusions  A simplified method of malar fat pad elevation is described. This method allows for elevation of the malar fat pad without extensive dissection. Excellent results are obtained with very little morbidity.