Is The ‘One-Stitch’ Facelift Effective?

The demand for cutting-edge facelift techniques is rising – but should you re-invent what already is effective?

The surge in facial plastic surgery has become a notable trend, especially for those attuned to the nuances of celebrity news and aesthetic culture.

According to the latest data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facial surgical procedures have experienced an impressive 18 percent average growth since the onset of the pandemic, with facelifts alone witnessing an 8 percent increase in 2022.

Anticipated to maintain this upward trajectory, these statistics underscore a growing desire for enduring solutions to achieve a youthful appearance.

Leading plastic surgeons have collectively recognised that nonsurgical procedures may introduce complications, potentially complicating future surgical plans. Concerns such as scarring from thread lifts, energy devices, and fillers altering facial anatomy have prompted individuals to seek more reliable and permanent solutions.

Amidst this landscape, a revolutionary facelift technique has gained prominence among the aesthetically inclined audience. In the US, Dr. Ramtin Kassir, a triple board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of Kassir Plastic Surgery, has pioneered the “One Stitch Facelift” – also known as a scarless face and brow lift. This innovative procedure promises remarkable results with just one discreet incision hidden within the hairline.

The One Stitch Facelift distinguishes itself from traditional facelifts by adopting a deep-plane approach, targeting the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) beneath the facial skin.

Unlike conventional facelifts with noticeable scars, this procedure is performed endoscopically, ensuring precision and minimal bruising.

However, Dr. Kassir advises against the One Stitch Facelift for individuals with advanced age, sagging soft tissues, deep wrinkles, jowls, and significant loss of skin elasticity. Traditional deep-plane facelifts are more appropriate for addressing these issues.

The cost, upon research, typically starts at $50,000 – with variations based on individual needs discussed during consultations.

So why has this facelift technique become so in-demand? Is it as effective as promised?

We caught up with Dr Jack Zoumaras, Specialist Plastic Surgeon and Founder of Artiste Plastic Surgery, to discuss the reality of the ‘one-stitch facelift’ and its true effectiveness.

Dr Zoumaras, how does this facelift technique truly differ from others?

The technique the surgeon described is essentially a modified pony tail facelift where the face is exposed via the brow incision. One key suture may be used to lift the deep tissue to the scalp but like anything in facial surgery you require multiple sutures to make it work 

For longevity the technique would not last very long, and it is often demonstrated on a younger patient wanting a glamorised look. Essentially, I think patients need to really consider – is it a one stitch facelift? Or just marketing?

Either way – approach with caution.

In facelift surgery, extensive surgery is often needed to obtain long lasting and good results. 

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