Dr. BYUN’s Message to Future Patients

Plastic surgery is a captivating field—both celebrated and, at times, a bit misguided. While many popular procedures promise an unending fountain of youth, they aren’t always the healthiest options for our aging faces and bodies. The motives of manufacturers and media often skew the truth, prioritizing profit over patient safety. After 25 years in this industry, I can confidently say that many of these popular procedures are not only unnecessary, but potentially harmful. Always remember: “not all that glitters is gold.” When considering cosmetic procedures, it’s crucial to be selective. If you find yourself uncertain, do yourself a favor and hit the brakes! This advice might sound radical coming from a plastic surgeon, but it is true that in most cases, the best decision is to walk away from unnecessary procedures. 

I often joke with my friends who are internists about their patients who are juggling 35 different medications, saying, “They might be healthier if they just stopped taking half of those!” The same logic applies to cosmetic surgery. When initial results don’t meet expectations, patients often find themselves on a never-ending quest for the perfect look, chasing one procedure after another. This cycle can quickly spiral into a dangerous path. If you’re in a hole, the best advice is simple: stop digging.

Throughout my career, I’ve focused on reversing this trend. My innovative technique involves repositioning facial muscles back to their original midline. It’s been a tough sell in a competitive field where every surgeon thinks they’re the best. But the proof is in the results—just look at my patients as they age. Now, even my competitors are reaching out to observe my methods.

As I enter the next chapter of my career, I’m committed to spreading the word: facelifts shouldn’t mean pulling your facial structures in unnatural directions. It’s vital that we stop or limit procedures that can harm our unique, irreplaceable tissues.

To help patients who may not have access to my practice, I’ve been writing articles encouraging them to ask their cosmetic surgeons about the BYUN Face Restoration Technique. This approach focuses on putting those muscles back to the midline in multiple layers, ensuring a more natural result.

While you’re waiting for restorative surgery, steer clear of common treatments like lasers, radiofrequency (RF) procedures, and certain injections that can fry valuable cells. These treatments often lead to cell death rather than rejuvenation. For example, PDO threads might create unsightly lines under the skin—who benefits from that? It’s time to call out what I refer to as “The Crime of the Century.” The industry has brainwashed the masses into believing that plastic surgery is always beneficial, when in fact, it can be quite the opposite.

And let’s not forget about traditional facelifts. Whether it’s a ponytail lift or a weekend facelift, these methods often pull your face in the wrong direction, leaving you with an unnatural appearance. Fat grafts may seem safe, but they can become lumpy and calcify, making your face look heavy. Fillers? Some linger indefinitely, giving the face a squared-off look and leaving under-eye bags that can appear blue and lumpy. None of these approaches are truly anti-aging—they might even accelerate the aging process!

Reflecting on my time at Northwestern University, I have immense respect for my professors, but I wasn’t a fan of their facelift techniques or the way their patients aged. Now I understand why: they often repositioned muscles incorrectly, leading to dependency on fillers and fat grafts to compensate for lost volume. Instead, they should have returned tissues to their original positions. As we age, our tissues naturally fall; they should be lifted back to their rightful places—not pulled sideways.

I urge you to encourage your surgeons to explore more effective methods—like mine. I call my technique “cell plastic surgery” because it aligns with the principles of physiology and cell biology. It’s working, and other surgeons are eager to learn my approach. Patients are flocking to my practice because they see the real difference.

By advocating for better practices, we can hope that in 25 years, we’ll see a decline in ineffective cosmetic procedures. The goal is to foster an environment where treatments genuinely support healthy cellular function rather than disrupt or damage tissues. Every procedure should be grounded in a true understanding of anatomy and physiology, emphasizing real anti-aging benefits.

Changing industry norms won’t be easy—there are plenty of biases and financial motivations at play. But together, we can push for a future where cosmetic procedures are performed with integrity and a genuine commitment to enhancing natural beauty. Let’s make sure we nurture our bodies rather than jeopardize them.

Facelift Chicago

Facial enhancement is a delicate art, that, if performed correctly, will leave you looking rejuvenated instead of artificial, windswept, or “frozen.” Chicago Facelift expert Dr. Michael BYUN possesses extensive experience with facial enhancement and has performed countless facelift surgeries throughout his career. Thus, he is well versed in all the latest techniques necessary to make your face look the best it has ever looked.

Dr. BYUN’s Midface Technique was presented at the national meeting of Plastic Surgery.

The technique was featured as a video at the American College of Surgeons at the Orlando meeting May 1998.

The delicate aging process of the midface involves the relationships between the lower eye, the cheek area, and the corner of the mouth. Thus, the restoration of one area affects the other.

The concept of Dr. BYUN’s facelift is to restore the natural youthful disposition of the cheek by elevating the descended malar cheek pad through very small incisions, therefore helping to reshape the central face, achieving a revitalized look.

Since 1997, he has been the pioneer and one of the very first to work on the midface muscles, repairing and returning those same muscles back to the midline. As a matter of fact, Dr. BYUN was the first to perform the surgery at Northwestern University in 1998, and his video of ‘VECS’ was first presented to the American College of Surgery in 1998. His presentation of Vertical lift, Endoscopic assisted lift, Composite muscle flap Suspension technique (VECS) was its first at the Chicago Plastic Surgery meeting in 1998. Since then, he has been perfecting his method of facial muscle repair for over 25 years.

Dr. BYUN says “Stop Everything!”

Dr. BYUN’s teaching comes down to this very important concept: “stop everything,” and to not perform bad cosmetic procedures on anyone. This is taught to his students and residents at Northwestern University. Yes, everyone ages. But everyone also has the right to age normally. The popular buzzwords such as vertical lift, deep plane lift, etc are all pulling the tissues apart from where they came from. Fat grafts leave lumps and migrate south, especially with prolonged use. Man made pharmaceutical engineered products should NOT be stuffed in the face. PDO threading and skin tightening will make the tissues from the central face spill over, similarly to a “beer belly,” spilling over a tightened belt. ALL of these should be stopped. Surgeons, dermatologists, and related titles should honor the human tissues. There are NO spare parts for the human tissues, and operating accordingly is key. Do not pull tissues away, and do not add anything to the face, or subtract anything from the face. The only way plastic surgeons should be repairing the face is to place the tissues back to where they came from, honoring the native tissue integrities.

With over 25 years of experience as a plastic surgeon, incorporating his experience as a trauma surgeon, Dr. BYUN is considered a global expert and leader in facial enhancement procedures.  Dr. BYUN meticulously customizes treatments based on multiple factors, all while using his signature Muscle Repair Technique, which lifts, and repairs muscles that have been damaged over time, due to the natural aging process, or poor outcomes from the use of thread lifts, fillers, and/or fat grafts.  This innovative Muscle Repair Technique is specific to Dr. BYUN.  He is the only surgeon utilizing this advanced, revolutionary surgical treatment, which was developed during his residency at Northwestern University.  Dr. BYUN has been doing his signature repair using all facial layers, returning them centrally. While it may be easy to think that every plastic surgeon is tackling their trendy facelift technique the same way Dr. BYUN is, and that Dr. BYUN’s results just look better/last longer. However, this is not the case. Dr. BYUN created this technique, and perfectly tailored it over the last 25 years. This repair surgery is ONE of ONE, and cannot be replicated. 

Many people are drawn to, and comment on Dr. BYUN’s before and after photos. The age range of the patients, and the various long term photos showcased throughout our website. This is because the subtle, yet powerful difference is noticed. The natural, beautiful face has been restored, not destroyed. All ages are welcome to revisit their youth with Dr. BYUN’s repair. You will see a “normal” face, not just for a month, but for years to come. Aging normally over the next 20+ years after the repair is the true BYUN difference.

DIRECTION is another thing that makes Dr. BYUN stand out amongst his peers. While 99% of surgeons will pull the skin, muscles, and other tissues up and away (towards the ears), Dr. BYUN places the muscles back up and IN towards the MIDLINE of the face; back to where the muscles fell from in the first place, honoring the orientation of the tissues, their insertion, and origin of muscle fibers. He does not pull them away, but telescopes them back into layers. Dr. BYUN visualizes the aging muscles from underneath via endoscope during this procedure. He sees facial tissues from the inside out, not the outside in. This is the most physiologically correct way to repair the ‘aging’ face.

You may be wondering, how is he the only surgeon using this technique? The answer is found in the before and after photos of many surgeons. The patients used are often very young, their results are not showcased over time, and you can see the patient’s displaced muscles if you look closely. Many patients are left looking “good” for a short period of time due to swelling, and the temporary benefits of fat grafts and/or fillers. Eventually, they age into an abnormal face.

If you have these above issues, you will be a good candidate for Dr. BYUN’s restorative repair surgery. If you have been delaying face surgery because you have seen so many bad facelifts out there, you have come to the right source. Dr. BYUN will honor your tissues, as once again,  there are no replacements or spare parts. He will put all the layers to the normal position, so you will look normal and age normally forever.

What Is The BYUN Muscle Based Facelift?

The real way to categorize facelifts is by these FACTORS:

1. Anatomical Site/Region
2. Anatomical Layers/Depth
3. Fixation Method
4. Direction of the Repair
5. Injection Method (what goes inside)
6. Method of Exposure

Patient 1901

Let’s dive in…

1. Facelift, is a face lift.

You are lifting something. What are we lifting? That depends on what Anatomical Site or Region is the focus:

Midface Lift, is lifting the mid part of the face (cheek & under eye).
Jowl Lift, is lifting the muscles near the mandible.
Neck Lift, is lifting regions of the neck. 
Brow Lift, is lifting the upper part of the face (eyebrow & forehead).

These terms are used to define anatomical regions of the face.

As a rule of thumb, Superficial Facelifts are defined by the dissection being below the skin, but above the muscle. A Skin Facelift only goes as deep as the subcutaneous level. Other examples include, the Mini Facelift, Subcutaneous Level Facelift and the Ponytail Lift or the Ponytail Facelift. No matter who does it and no matter what commercialized terminology the procedure has, facelifts involving skin and fat layers will always be a very superficial lift, as these are not lifting the muscles.

A Composite Lift, includes multiple layers -skin, fat and muscle. As we move deeper to the muscle layer, common facelifts you will hear about are SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which is the top of the muscle that’s lifted.  A Deep Plane Facelift is a dissection under the muscle. Subperiosteal Lift, is a dissection below the muscle and the periosteum, which makes it the deepest level, right above the bone. These terms are used to define the depth of the procedure.

Dr. BYUN’s facelift utilizes all of these layers. So simply asking your doctor “what level are you dissecting to?” can help the patient see through the commercialized terminologies.

Suture Lift, which is using a suture under the skin to temporarily lift and tighten the skin. Often referred to as a Lunchtime Facelift. A Feather Lift is when threads are inserted in the subcutaneous level to temporarily lift sagging skin. PDO Threads or the PDO Thread Lift, use dissolvable sutures to temporarily and lift the skin.

These terminologies are basically describing the fixation, material, and method. So does it really matter? Yes, but very impartially. Because every surgeon has a way to fixate the layers that they separate at the regions described above. Since the beauty industry has started reaching outside of their area of expertise, they have come up with sensationalized and highly commercialized phrases. These are all discouraged by Dr. BYUN. Some of the most common lifts using these methods are: the Lifestyle Lift, the Weekend Facelift, or Weekend Lift, MiniLift, or Mini Facelift, Quick Recovery Lift, No Scar Lift, and the list goes on. These are examples of more gimmicky phrases that consumers should not pay attention to as they are not true facelift techniques.

5. Whether or not a surgeon utilizes an Injection Method is helpful to ask. Liquid Facelifts utilize synthetic, man made fillers, which cause complications such as migration and lumpiness.  Fat Graft Facelifts cause lumpiness and calcifications. A Microfat Facelift, or Emulsified Fat Graft although sound good, will eventually meet the same fate as the Fat Graft Facelift. This set of terminologies describe the materials used and not the region, layer, or fixation method. So, what does that mean? Simply, they are not true Facelift methods. It goes without saying, but Doctor BYUN does not recommend any of these methods, he believes that for the most natural results, volume should not be added or subtracted from your face, but only repositioned.

The BYUN Difference

Since almost all of the techniques mentioned above aren’t able to correct the main reason for a facelift, (the aging/sagging muscles) Dr. Michael BYUN created his own technique over 25 years ago at Northwestern.  He was able to recognize that the way facelift procedures were being performed was quite wrong and didn’t fix the root of the problem. Traditionally, surgeons are taught to pull the skin, fatty tissues, and muscles Up and Away. Doing this brings the muscles to a non-native and therefore non-natural location on the face. Because muscles aren’t placed back to where they started to fall from, surgeons resorted to shoving fat grafts and fillers into places where the muscles should be.

1. Dr. BYUN loves to do “The Works” for patients which includes the whole face and neck. Currently (2023), “The Works” start at $157,000. The price can increase based on factors such as surgical history, prolonged use of fillers or other quick fix methods, or poor/undesired surgical outcomes. He has broken the face into four (4) different zones. This way patients can still benefit from having his repair work done, even if it’s not the whole face and neck.
2. As for the layer, Dr. BYUN has all the layers covered. He separates the SMAS that’s above the periosteum and works in the supraperiosteal layer which is essentially a deep plane or a Supraperiosteal Facelift. The skin is secured tightly enough to show off the new muscle form, but loose enough to not cause any scar spreading or tissue damage.  Dr. BYUN was one of the first to describe the VECS Lift (vertical endoscopic composite system). This utilizes deep plane rhytidectomy, SMAS, skin and fat lifting techniques.
3. Dr. BYUN uses a very special multi-suture securement method as he places the muscles back onto the bone they fell from.
4. By far the most important differentiation of a BYUN facelift is the direction of repositioning. We age Down and Out, he repairs Up and In. Tissues that have aged are reversed, meaning that tissues are NOT pulled sideways, but rather they are pulled back to the midline. Since he is leading the way and is the ONLY one restoring the face in this way, this is Dr. BYUN’s contribution to the field of plastic surgery and he hopes to one day win the Nobel Prize in Medicine.
5. It goes without saying, but Doctor BYUN does not recommend any injection methods, he believes that for the most natural results, volume should not be added or subtracted from your face, but only repositioned. Like a squeeze ball that has been squeezed from the top and pouches out the bottom, to restore the structure, one must squeeze the bottom to restore the contents back up to the top. This mirrors the aging process, as we age our muscles succumb to gravity and move down and out. Therefore, the most physiologically correct way to restore the face is to bring the contents back UP and IN; but no other surgeon is doing this! Other surgeons pull muscles to a third location (UP and OUT). This distorts the face because muscles are no longer in their native location, to counter this, they will fill the face with fat graphs and fillers to try to create a more normal bulk appearance of where the muscle SHOULD be. Over time, fat grafts cause lumpiness and fillers migrate, both causing heaviness to the face and thus age it more rapidly.
6. A big aspect of the BYUN difference is that he uses small incisions with the endoscopic technique.  Even with this challenging technique, Dr. BYUN can perform an entire face and neck lift via these very small incisions. He was one of the first surgeons to use a small endoscope for a facelift back in 1998 at Northwestern University.

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Youth, Restored

Other surgeons won’t show you their long term results. Dr. BYUN is proud of his. One of the most rewarding parts of Dr. BYUN’s job is bringing patients back to their younger selves. He loves to be challenged with an older photo, and seeing how closely he can replicate it. Below, you will see many examples of Dr. BYUN taking his patients back in time, with just one facial restoration procedure.

Patient 1908

Patient 2516

Facelift Candidacy

You may be a good candidate for facelift if you are bothered by one or more of the following:

• Sagging skin in the mid and lower face
• Deep skin folds between the nose and the corners of the mouth
• Fallen or displaced fat
• Jowls
• Excess fat under the chin – i.e., a “double chin”
• Skin laxity and excess fat on the neck – i.e., a “turkey neck”

You should be in good overall health, a non-smoker, and have reasonable expectations of the procedure.

The BYUN Facelift Procedure

A traditional facelift is performed on an outpatient basis with anesthesia. Dr. BYUN makes several short incisions near the hairline at the temples. Depending on the case, a small amount of excess skin can removed. The underlying muscles and tissues are then lifted and tightened to create more youthful contours. Fallen or displaced fat is repositioned. The tissues and skin along the jawline are tightened to add more definition. Excess skin and fat can be removed from the neck to get rid of a “turkey neck.”

Compared to most surgeons, Dr. BYUN takes a different approach by addressing the “midface,” which is the cheek area beneath the eyes. Drooping skin in the midface can cause noticeable folds between the mouth and nose. This area is often ignored during standard facelift procedures, despite the fact that it is a concern for many facelift patients. Dr. BYUN believes that treatment of this area is key to restoring balance and youthfulness to the face.

Revolutionary Vision,
Unmatched Outcomes

BYUN Facelift Recovery

After a facelift, a bandage is placed around the head. Facelift guru Dr. BYUN provides comprehensive instructions on when to change the bandage and clean the incisions. He provides information on the proper medications to use to reduce the risk of infection. He will also advise you on how long to take off from work, when it is safe to resume socializing, when you can exercise, and other normal activities.

Common facelift after effects include:

• Headaches
• Tightness in the scalp area
• A small lump behind the ear
• A lump along the hairline
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Blurry eyes
• Dizziness
• Clogged ears
• Shooting nerve sensations
• Numbness

The forehead does not usually bruise, but it is possible to get black eyes from this procedure. Three days after surgery you can apply makeup to the surgical site to disguise bruising. For the first two weeks, avoid any clothing that pulls over your head. In addition, you cannot wear earrings for one month. If you color or perm your hair, be sure to do so before the surgery. You should not apply chemicals for six weeks following surgery.

During your initial recovery, you should keep your head elevated at all times, including while you sleep. You should sleep on your back propped up on two to three pillows. Here, Dr. BYUN has broken down 5 things to know about facelift recovery.

Facelift FAQs

WILL I BE IN PAIN?

You will not feel anything during the procedure, since anesthesia will be used. However, after the anesthesia wears off, you will feel some pain and discomfort. It is highly recommended that you start off taking Extra Strength Tylenol, every six (6) to eight (8) hours, alternating with Motrin. Please DO NOT MIX pain relief medications together at the same time. If you are experiencing a higher level of pain, please take the prescribed pain medication (Norco, or other prescribed pain medication).

HOW LONG DOES THE RECOVERY TAKE? WHEN CAN I GO BACK TO WORK & EXERCISE?

Depending on both the surgery and your own physiology (your body’s healing), most patients have a downtime of two (2) to three (3) weeks before returning to daily activities such as exercising. During the first ten (10) days, we ask that you do not do any activity that increases your heart rate. This is to help the healing process, since the blood clot that has stopped the bleeding from the surgery dissolves in about seven (7) days. After ten (10) days, increase activity by ten percent (10%) each week as tolerated. Stop activity if you see a dramatic increase in swelling when you wake up the following day. At the one (1) week post-op visit you will be provided with healing instructions and what specific activities are allowed. Patients can usually return to work after one (1) week.

WHAT TO DO IF I BECOME CONSTIPATED?

Reduce Norco usage, walk around, and take an over-the-counter medication like Colace or MiraLAX. It is recommended that you start using an over-the-counter stool softening medication one (1) day before surgery and continue taking it until you no longer need to be taking Norco for pain.

WHAT DOES THE HEALING PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

Bruising, Swelling, and Stitches (which can pucker) are all NORMAL. Tissue firmness is NORMAL. Your body may not heal symmetrically, meaning one side may take longer to heal than the other,  this is NORMAL.  Any previous asymmetry may remain.

WHY ARE MY RESULTS UNEVEN?

Post-op asymmetry is NORMAL. Pre-existing asymmetry will continue since the human anatomy of left vs. right does not always match. Human tissue is naturally asymmetric. This applies to Breasts, Face, Eyes, and even the Nose.

WHY IS MY SWELLING LASTING LONGER ON ONE SIDE?

This is very common. The function of your Lymphatic System (which acts as a highway of Arteries, Veins, and Lymphatic Channels) is to filter out fluid from particular areas of the body. Lymph Nodes, Bone Structure & Tissue Shape are different from right to left, so when it comes to draining, the “clearance rate” of the swelling is also entirely different on each side. The heart is located on the left side of the body and distributes blood throughout the body using different paths & pressures. The drainage of the heart is not completely linear; thus another reason why Lymphatic Clearance is different on each side.

HOW SOON CAN I TAKE A SHOWER?

We recommend waiting forty-eight (48) hours to shower. Make sure you are steady on your feet. Do not soak the incisions and pat them dry when done.

CAN I GET MY SUTURES WET?

After forty-eight (48) hours, stitches can get wet. It is highly recommended, however, that only normal saline (over-the-counter medical cleaning solution) is used to clean the stitches. DO NOT use any cleansers or alcohol products on the suture site. Picking or pulling at the sutures is not approved and can cause damage. Pat dry the sutures if need be.

HOW OFTEN CAN I APPLY HEAT AND COLD PACKS?

Hot packs are NOT recommended due to a side effect of increased inflammation which can further delay the healing process. However, cold packs are recommended with frequent usage in fifteen (15) minute intervals.

HOW SOON CAN I GET ON A PLANE?

Every case is unique. Typically, short distances (short domestic flights) are okay. However, we recommend that you wait until you see Dr. BYUN’s team at the one (1) week follow-up appointment for final approval. Please keep in mind that extra swelling can occur due to pressure changes in the plane.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR MY TISSUES TO HEAL SO THAT I CAN GO OUTSIDE / LOOK PRESENTABLE?

There are many factors that determine the progression of the healing process, for these reasons, we cannot determine exactly how long it will take to heal. We do our best to follow your healing progression. During each follow up visit, we observe how your tissues are healing and we make the proper care adjustments if needed. Feeling comfortable and confident to go outside, and look presentable again, reflects both your personality and the healing ability of your tissues. Some individuals are proud to go out after just 3 weeks, while others may still feel extremely shy to be seen out in public so soon. Most of the healing will be complete at the 3 month mark.

WHY ARE MY EYES SWOLLEN SHUT?

After surgery your body’s natural response is to swell. This is NORMAL and will subside within 1 – 2 weeks. This will be monitored, as you are assessed at your follow-up appointments.

WHY IS THE WHITE PART OF MY EYE RED?

Whether just 1 eye, or both eyes are experiencing redness, this is NORMAL. This is a small blood spot and is harmless. This is a very common side effect and will subside within a few weeks. This will be monitored, as you are assessed at your follow-up appointments.

WHY DO MY EYES TEAR ALL THE TIME?

Similarly, to eyes having difficulty closing all the way, eyes can also start to tear in an attempt to lubricate the eye. When this occurs, apply artificial drops and perform the eye exercises given to you at the 1 week post-op visit.

WHY CAN’T I CLOSE MY EYES ALL THE WAY?

This is very common with eyelid procedures, especially lower eye surgery. It is important not to force your eyes shut or wide open, as this will cause the sutures to potentially break. Blinking becomes weak after surgery; this is NOT caused by any nerve damage. Lubrication of the eye, normally performed by squinting, becomes less effective after surgery due to the suture presence & swelling in the area. This will normalize once the eyes are done healing.

A HELPFUL TIP: You should apply artificial tears during the day and perform simple eye exercises, as provided by staff during follow-up appointments.

WHY IS IT PAINFUL TO CHEW FOOD?

Dr. BYUN uses a special technique that involves muscle repair in which everything is done internally. Because of this, the muscles will have a harder time working while they’re healing (i.e. chewing & talking). This is only temporary as muscles usually repair within 1 week. We recommend a liquid diet right after surgery, advancing to a soft diet until the muscles are healed.

A HELPFUL TIP:  Have protein shakes & soups ready before surgery.

WHAT SHOULD I EAT IF IT HURTS TO CHEW?

Nourishment, especially protein, is needed for the healing process. Protein and meal replacement drinks (such as Ensure and Premier) are highly recommended. However, DO NOT use a straw, instead, use a finger to lift the top lip, and then drink normally to help maintain the surgical work.

WHY IS MY SCALP ITCHY?

This is common after face surgeries and it happens because new nerves are making new connections and healing after the procedure. The Supraorbital Nerve is located from your eyebrows and reaches all the way up through your forehead and onto your scalp. When this nerve is stimulated during surgery it can create a lingering itch. This will go away as you heal but may last up to 2 – 3 months. If this becomes too bothersome, we can help manage the itching at future follow-up appointments.

WHY DO I FEEL A NUMB SENSATION ON TOP OF MY HEAD? HOW LONG WILL THIS LAST?

The sensation of feeling numb on your head is due to the branches of the Supraorbital Nerve. The nerve runs along your eyebrow upwards and branches out onto your forehead. This nerve is responsible for sensation to your scalp, forehead and eyebrow. Think of it as a tree – the trunk of the tree is the nerve and the branches & leaves are the branches of the nerve. The trunk is never harmed but the leaves can fall off and then they regrow. Right now, your “leaves” are growing back and once they grow in, you should regain sensation back onto your head. This is only a temporary feeling and is NORMAL.

WHEN CAN I GET DENTAL WORK?

Since you’re still recovering from the surgery, we suggest you hold off all dental work, unless it is urgent or an emergency. Dental offices often manipulate the mouth to stretch wide for their procedures, which can alter and damage the surgical work.

HOW SOON CAN I USE MAKEUP TO COVER SCARS?

After 1 full week, all incisions should be closed. Once the incisions are closed, risk of infection or sensitivity to makeup will be minimized, if makeup is used. Makeup usage will need to be approved. This can be brought up at your one (1) week postoperative visit.

I AM INTERESTED IN MICROBLADING / TATTOOING MY EYEBROWS, WHEN CAN I DO SO?

It takes 1 full year for the face to recover from surgery. Due to residual swelling and sensitivity from the surgery, we suggest waiting 1 full year before microblading (tattooing) the eyebrows.

WHEN CAN I WAX MY FACE?

Waxing requires tugging and pulling of the skin to remove hair, with a common side effect of inflammation, therefore, waxing should not be performed for at least 6 months after surgery. Facial waxing will need to be approved by MD. Any waxing that occurs before the 6-month mark can alter the surgery results.

IS THERE MAINTENANCE REQUIRED AFTER SURGERY?

Yes. Whatever face wrinkles you had prior to the surgery will not fully disappear. This is mostly based on genetics, the environment, and the natural aging process. As swelling decreases, some wrinkles will reappear. Once you’re a client of Dr. BYUN, he will carry you through each step of the rejuvenation process, continuing to see you, observing results, and providing maintenance procedures as needed. Maintenance will help you maintain surgical results and prolong its longevity. These treatments may include Botox, PRP Injections, PRP Treatments, and secondary skin tightening. We also have a highly trained Aesthetician, who, under the supervision of Dr. BYUN works to help your skin look its best. Our Aesthetician tailors services to fit your needs after surgery, and to ensure the best results for the longest duration. You will age more gracefully than you did before.

Additional FAQ

Q: Hello Dr. BYUN, I am 72 years old. Am I too old to have your signature facelift? I want to look young again but I’m afraid the years are definitely visible on my face.

A: Not at all, age is just a number around here! I will match your outward appearance to your youthful energy. After my procedure, I bet you will feel 40 years old again. Connect with us through the website and we will see your photos and work from there. Once we get your photos, you can visit me to create a plan for your face, learn more about my procedures, and receive before and aftercare instructions.

“I would love to match your outward appearance with how you feel.” -Dr. Michael BYUN.

Will I Have Scars From A Facelift?

Dr. BYUN’s facelift scars are very discreet because they are small, and follow the natural hairline. Scar management techniques and product recommendations can be provided to help scars fade.

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

With Dr. BYUN’s signature Facelift Muscle Repair, your results will last ages longer than a standard facelift procedure. A facelift turns back the clock, but does not stop the natural aging process, or the effects of gravity. So, it is important to remember that despite the aging process, you will always look better than you would if you did not have a facelift. 

Can I Combine A Facelift With Other Procedures?

A facelift can be performed in combination with other procedures such as: blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), brow lift, or nose reshaping. Some patients also choose to combine a facelift with laser skin resurfacing or other non-surgical treatments to improve the quality of the skin. Or, most commonly, patients decide to add another Zone to their facelift procedure.

For more information, please request a consultation with Dr. BYUN by contacting his Chicago practice today.

Schedule a Chicago Facelift Consultation With Dr. BYUN

What Makes Dr. BYUN’s Approach to Anesthesia Different?

The BYUN Difference 

Dr. BYUN works closely with his handpicked team of Board Certified Anesthesiologists.  The anesthesia type is decided by this team.  Oftentimes, general anesthesia or LMA (laryngeal mask anesthesia) will be used.  Sometimes, a lighter ‘colonoscopy-type’ sedation can be used.  Many factors are considered when determining the best anesthesia type, such as medical history, the patient’s anatomy, procedure type, procedure length, etc.  Our top priority is, and always will be, safety; and second to that is comfort. 

Additional Anesthesia Information

Dr. BYUN believes anesthesia is an art.  His patients should have safe and comfortable sedation that allows for optimized surgical results.  Preventing excessive movement during a Facelift is important for obvious reasons; high levels of pain during surgery can increase one’s blood pressure, which can negatively impact the outcome and results of the surgery, due to extra stress and swelling.  An appropriate airway management system will be specifically selected.  Continuous airway monitoring is necessary to protect the airway, making sure patients are well oxygenated, avoiding any type of aspiration.  An SCD (surgical compression device) is used to massage your calves during surgery to prevent blood clots from forming. 

Dr. BYUN has not only perfected his surgical skills, but he has also given much attention to protecting his patients throughout the whole surgical process, which includes anesthesia.  Dr. BYUN will be your biggest advocate when it comes to safety.

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BYUN Recovery & Aftercare Instructions for a Facelift

IMPORTANT – if you have the urge to vomit, sneeze, or cough let it out!

IMPORTANT – if you’re continuously vomiting, call the office.

IMPORTANT – if surgery is more than 5 hours, the Anesthesia Care Team may insert a catheter to monitor your body fluid during surgery. The catheter is removed at the end of surgery; discomfort is normal and present for 24 hours.IMPORTANT – sore throat feeling from the Endotracheal Tube placed by the Anesthesiologist resolves within 1 – 2 days; using ice chips or hot tea will help to soothe sore throat.

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Immediately After Surgery

Start stool softener as directed: Colace, Miralax, or fiber supplements.

Start antibiotics (take with food).

Consume 1 protein drink per day.

ICE – Apply ice around the surgical area (please refer to the instructions below).

 Start pain management (see pain management options below).

Complete the above steps until your 1 week follow up appointment.

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Aches & Pains

BLEEDING within the first 24 – 48 hours is normal.

Muscle repair of the face will cause muscle pain as you heal – most intense during the first few nights.

It will feel like a muscle ache, or toothache along the cheekbone and jaw areas (it’s not a bone pain – it is muscle).

Aches and pains will lessen as time passes and much of this muscle ache will go away within 1 week.

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Pain Management Options

Start with Tylenol Extra-Strength & Motrin (1 – 2 tablets / capsules, alternating every 6 – 8 hours).

For Intolerable Pain: Norco, or other prescribed pain medication (take with food and as directed).

DO NOT drive and DO NOT mix Norco with Tylenol and Motrin (alternating okay).

If taking Norco, take with stool softener, as Norco can slow down digestion.

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Monitor Swelling

ICE every hour for 20 minutes (while you are awake).

The first 3 days are the worst; majority of swelling subsides within 2 – 3 weeks.

Elevate head above heart level (prop head and back up on 2 – 3 pillows, continue this for 2 weeks).

Start foot exercises (foot pumping) – 10 times every hour (this helps to prevent blood clots).

Start breathing exercises (see steps below):

1. Begin by taking a deep breath in (hold for 10 seconds) then exhale
2. Repeat for a total of 10 times every hour
3. Do these exercises for the first 5 days

Perform these foot and breathing exercises at your own pace. Foot and breathing exercises help to prevent lung collapse and pneumonia from anesthesia.

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Dressing & Bandage Wraps

Immediately after surgery you will have a bulky dressing consisting of:

1. Tape directly on your skin
2. Gauze pads
3. Gauze wrap
4. ACE wrap

DO NOT REMOVE THE TAPE directly on your skin.

DO NOT remove bandages and/or dressings until after 48 hours, unless instructed by the doctor. You can expect the dressing/tape to be removed and replaced at your 48hr postoperative follow up appointment.

IMPORTANT – if you become uncomfortable and feel that the wrap is too tight, or that the wrap is cutting off your circulation, it is okay to loosen the wrap or cut a small slit in the wrap to alleviate the tightness/pressure.

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Cleaning Wounds

 It is ok to gently clean wounds with saline 1 – 2 times a day after your initial 48hr postop appointment.

 After cleaning wounds, pat dry with a clean gauze and apply antibiotic ointment.

More detailed wound care instructions will be discussed at your 24 phone follow up, or 48 hour in-person or virtual visit; as wound instructions may vary per patient.

PLEASE NOTE – if your 48 hr postop appointment is a virtual visit, please follow instructions provided by Dr. BYUN and the BYUN Recovery Team.

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For Showering

We recommend waiting 48 hours to shower.

IMPORTANT – anything that is applied directly to the skin must remain on (even in the shower).

BE VERY CAREFUL when you shower.

IMPORTANT – try not to saturate the incision site(s) or sutures with water.

It is okay for water to splash the area, but please avoid soaking or submerging the incisions.

A sponge bath is recommended if you cannot avoid getting these areas soaked.

When you wash your hair, baby shampoo works best (it doesn’t sting).

After showering, brush your hair with EXTREME CAUTION as to not tug or pull on any sutures near the hairline; (even brushing the hair far away from the scalp can cause some tugging).

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For Sleeping

Expect discomfort for the first few nights.

Protect your bed sheets/pillows with old towels or blankets as fluid/blood may be dripping from the incision areas within the first 24 – 48 hours after surgery – don’t worry, this is completely normal.

AVOID laying on one side of your body:

1. This can cause an increase in swelling to that side of the body.
2. This can worsen asymmetrical appearances and delay the healing process.

For at least 2 weeks, sleep using 2 – 3 pillows to elevate your head, neck, and shoulders.

It is ok to reposition yourself by slowly turning left and right, as long as you feel comfortable in doing so.

Should you have difficulty sleeping, Tylenol PM is the recommended sleep aid (as long as you are not taking the prescribed pain medication, such as Norco). Please DO NOT mix the medications.

If sleeping problems continue, please call our office to discuss with the BYUN Recovery Team.

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Face Procedures – Information 1 – 2 Weeks Post Op

FACE TAPING – IMPORTANT

IMPORTANT – you MUST wear postoperative face tape as instructed by Dr. BYUN and the BYUN

RECOVERY TEAM

IMPORTANT – the purpose of postoperative face taping is to insure that the repositioned facial

muscles create and maintain MUSCLE MEMORY; supporting muscle position and muscle integrity as you continue to heal.

Taping will be done for the first 2 – 3 weeks and will continue for 2 – 3 months (will vary per patient).

More detailed taping instructions will be discussed at and throughout your follow up appointments.

Taping acts as a “retainer” for the face muscles, which will help the muscles to heal in their intended position.

Taping will remind you to avoid using the cheek muscles, avoid smiling, and to avoid hard chewing.

Taping instructions will vary per patient.

REMOVAL OF TAPE

Tape can stay on for a few days if it is still holding.

Tape Removal:

1. Remove tape in an upward direction.
2. Start from the bottom of the tape.
3. Move tape slowly upward.
4. Remember to gently hold the skin as you remove the tape.

If the tape becomes itchy or is coming off, remove it for a few hours, then reapply new tape.

If the tape is too tight, it is okay to cut the tape to loosen it, allowing yourself relief from the pressure / tightness.

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Ace Wrapping, Removal of Ace Bandage, and Further Instructions

IMPORTANT – you MUST wear the ACE wrap as instructed by the Dr. BYUN and the BYUN Recovery Team.

ACE wrapping should be done IN ADDITION to face taping (see face taping instructions in the next section).

Instructions on how long you will need to wear the ACE bandage will be discussed throughout your appointments.

ACE wrapping instructions may vary per patient based on procedure type.

ACE wrapping works like face taping by acting as a “retainer” for the face – creating muscle memory.IMPORTANT – please review the ACE WRAP INSTRUCTIONS below for a step-by-step guide on how to properly wrap your head and face using the ACE bandage.

Ace Wrap Instructions

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What to Avoid After Surgery

IMPORTANT – Dr. BYUN and the BYUN Recovery Team will advise you on when you may resume activities.

IMPORTANT – activity can increase your heart rate which disrupts the healing process.

IMPORTANT – do what feels comfortable – if it hurts, STOP!

AVOID activity that will increase your heart rate.

AVOID bending over, strenuous activity, and/or lifting heavy objects for at least 4 – 6 weeks.

DO NOT EXERCISE – you can return to exercising and regular activity after week 3 or 4 (given MD clearance).

Once cleared by the BYUN Recovery Team, you can increase activity by 10% every week (as tolerated).

AVOID moving your facial muscles – less talking and smiling, rest the face muscles.

AVOID facial animation and minimize facial movements.

AVOID using the upper lip when talking and eating.

IMPORTANT – hold the upper lip with your finger when you eat or speak.

VERY IMPORTANT – DO NOT massage the surgical site (this can ruin the repair work from surgery).

DO NOT make “O” or “TOO” sounds with the mouth.

AVOID using a straw (if you must – prop up the straw out of one corner of the mouth, and gently sip).

AVOID fully closing your mouth (keep lips slightly open by relaxing oral muscles, pressing tongue on the pallet).

DO NOT open your mouth wide when brushing teeth (go slow, slightly open mouth, and use a small toothbrush).

AVOID hard chewing (hard chewing will put too much strain on the cheek muscles).

DO NOT refrain from yawning or sneezing (let it out – as to not strain the repaired muscles from surgery).

DO NOT squint.

AVOID rubbing your eyes.

AVOID touching the swollen areas as much as possible until your follow up appointment.

DO NOT force your eyes to open all the way; only open your eyes as much as they can open naturally

during the healing process. Forcing your eyes open can cause the internal stitch to rip and lead to improper healing.

AVOID wearing contact lenses for at least 1 week – further instructions regarding contact lenses will be provided at your follow up appointments.

AVOID wearing clothing that needs to be pulled over the head.

NO CHEMICALS to scalp for at least 6 weeks after surgery (this includes hair dye and perm products).

NO MAKEUP for 1 week.

NO EARRINGS for 1 month.

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Normal Side Effects

BRUISING can appear away from the incision, this is NORMAL – bruising will change colors as it heals.

PUCKERING after surgery is NORMAL and a great sign – this shows that your muscles are adhering to the tissues.

DO NOT massage the puckered areas – they will go away with time.

SENSATION, NUMBNESS, and TINGLING is NORMAL

New nerves awaken and grow after muscle repair; it may take up to 6 – 12 months for normal sensations to return.

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Things to Remember

KEEP A POSITIVE MINDSET – do not complain; we are here to help and support you throughout this process!

REPORT YOUR SYMPTOMS – report any major issues/concerns, however, please do not overanalyze your healing.

REMEMBER -natural changes will occur throughout the healing process; this is normal!

MENTALLY PREPARE YOURSELF – yes, you will look bad for the first few months until healing is complete.

ACCEPTANCE – you must accept the fact that you’ve had surgery done.

TAKE TIME TO HEAL – please be patient and kind to yourself while healing; take the necessary time to recover.

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Be Kind to Yourself and Trust the Healing Process

BE PATIENT – the healing process takes months.

BE KIND TO YOURSELF – please avoid criticizing yourself and Dr. BYUN’s work.

AVOID social media, google research related to plastic surgery; do not spend too much time in front of the mirror.

THE “ALIEN LOOK” may last for between 4 – 8 weeks (depending on how your body heals).

REMEMBER – each patient is different; please do not compare!

Reverse Facelift

Patient 2010

This patient is a professional singer that was looking to restore a youthful, natural appearance that she once remembered having. With being in the entertainment industry since the age of fourteen, performing in front of hundreds of audience members regularly, Dr. BYUN understood the patient’s desire to visually bring back a young and lively stage presence.

She sought out to improve the large, droopy circles underneath her eyes, and her sagging cheeks. She wished to improve the prominent hump on her nose and wanted to minimize the flare-up of the nostrils, mostly due to a deviated septum and hanging columella.

The procedures included repositioning the brow and vertically redistributing the tissues and muscles through a very specific and gentle multiple vector pull approach. This involved tightening the cheek and neck area muscles and tissues. Due to her tired-looking eyes, Dr. BYUN chose to lift the lateral hood of the brow and skin of the upper lid. He also enhanced the depth of the upper lid crease, all through minimal incisions. Dr. BYUN performed a lower lid canthopexy in order to repair the dark circles underneath her eyes, and tightened the lid margin and muscles. In order to improve sagging skin around the corners of the mouth, he then lifted the buccinator muscles to compress the cheeks tight to her teeth without pulling the mouth sideways. Unlike most surgeons who tend to approach the neck left through the back of the neck along the hairline, Dr. BYUN vertically lifted the jaw area and approached the platysma neck muscle through the lateral part of the face. Dr. BYUN believes that aging occurs vertically, therefore approaching his work in a fashion that does not pull the skin horizontally in an unnatural way. Dr. BYUN’s delicate touch and skillful hands allowed the patient to shed years from her appearance, allowing her to feel fresh, energized, and comfortable performing in front of large crowds again. 

“How can I express the gratitude that overwhelms my spirit each time I gaze into the mirror? To see the sparkle in my eyes restored, a smile once forgotten, remembered and a beautiful new nose that only you envisioned as God intended. And with the ghost of old age now banished from my neckline, I see the reflection of my youth— a better, softer version of myself— startling, magical, miraculous. I now possess a face by BYUN, and even my creator is impressed. Thank you from the bottom of my grateful heart, and the best of everything to you and yours.” -Patient Quote

Central Facelift

Facelift Terms Guide

Superficial Facelift: This is a procedure that only goes as deep as the subcutaneous level. Only the Skin (dermis) and Fat (subcutaneous) layers are being worked on.

Skin Facelift: This procedure can include the Skin or Fat layers. Considered a superficial lift that’s above the muscles. (Muscles not touched or repositioned) Also referred to as a Mini-Facelift.

Mini Facelift: This procedure can include the Skin or Fat layers. Considered a superficial lift that’s above the muscles. (Muscles not touched or repositioned) Also referred to as a Skin Facelift.

Subcutaneous layer = SubQ = Subcutaneous Level Facelifts: A superficial lift that includes the fat (subcutaneous) layer of tissue.

Ponytail Lifts/Facelifts: A marketing term, not a medical one. A superficial lift that pulls tissues up and out towards your ears (lateral).

SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system): This facelift describes the lifting of a tissue layer that connects the face and neck muscles to the dermis. This layer plays a large role in facial expressions.

Deep Plane Rhytidectomy or Deep Plane Facelift: A facelift procedure that describes the repositioning of the SMAS layer.

Composite Lift: A lift in which the skin is not dissected and therefore is moved with the SMAS layer as the SMAS layer above the muscle that gets repositioned. More often than not, excess saggy skin that has lost elasticity isn’t able to be properly redistributed.

Supraperiosteal Facelift: This is a type of deep plane facelift that repositions all of the tissue layers superficial to the supraperiosteal space.

Subperiosteal Lift: This is a type of deep plane facelift that repositions all of the tissue layers superficial to the subperiosteal space. The thin layer of fascia which covers the bone is lifted. (for the cheek it’s the zygoma) It’s the most invasive (deep) lift yet, it lasts the longest.

Suture Lift: A lift that’s performed with a thin suture (stitch) that holds up the tissues against gravity. This lift usually doesn’t last very long and has many adverse effects associated with it. Tissue tearing, scarring, suture rejection, pain and abnormal aging to name a few.

Lunchtime Facelift: Another marketing term for a non-surgical thread lift, which uses a suture under the skin to temporarily lift and tighten the skin. A lift that’s performed with a thin suture (stitch) that holds up the tissues against gravity. This lift usually doesn’t last very long and has many adverse effects associated with it. Tissue tearing, scarring, suture rejection, pain and abnormal aging to name a few.

Feather Lift: Another marketing term for a non-surgical thread lift. It uses a barbed suture to hold up soft tissues against gravity, but over time the tissues lose the battle with gravity. Sutures are usually placed in the subq level. Like the other thread lifts, this lift usually doesn’t last very long and has many adverse effects associated with it. Tissue tearing, scarring, suture rejection, pain and abnormal aging to name a few.

Vertical Facelift: A facelift technique in which layers of tissue are pulled back up. Mostly describes the direction of the lift.

VECS Lift (vertical endoscopic composite system): This is a facelift technique in which a vertical lift is achieved via an endoscopic entry method. An endoscope is a long slender camera used to view internal structures without having to make large incisions.

PDO Threads or PDO Thread Lift: This type of lift is not a true facelift and uses dissolvable sutures to temporarily rejuvenate and lift the skin. These sutures trigger your skin to create more collagen, but because tissue layers are not properly separated before fixation, there is abnormal scarring caused by uneven tension. These lifts also interfere with normal aging. Layers of tissue should be independently separated, moved up as a flap and independently secured.

Liquid Facelift: This type of lift is not a true facelift and utilizes manmade fillers, which cause complications such as migration and lumpiness. Over time they cause heaviness to the face and thus age it more rapidly.

Fat Graft Facelifts: This type of lift is not a true facelift and utilizes fat that’s usually harvested from another part of one’s body. These types of lifts cause complications such as migration, lumpiness and calcifications. Over time they cause heaviness to the face and thus age it more rapidly. The transferred fat becomes dominant over native fat. Non-native or transferred fat starts to rob blood circulation, and they become engorged (lumpy).

Microfat Facelift, or Emulsified Fat Graft: This type of lift is not a true facelift and utilizes fat that’s usually harvested from another part of one’s body. Although it sounds fancier than the Fat Graft Facelift, it is essentially the same. These types of lifts cause complications such as migration, lumpiness and calcifications. Over time they cause heaviness to the face and thus age it more rapidly. The transferred fat becomes dominant over native fat. Non-native or transferred fat starts to rob blood circulation, and they become engorged (lumpy).

Open Facelift: This type of facelift describes the size of the incision and the method that is thus used for dissection. Large incisions are used so that more of the tissues can be visualized by the surgeon’s naked eye. Large retractors are used to hold the skin up and away from the face as the surgeon works on the face’s contents. Usually, the preferred method for inexperienced or under skilled facelift surgeons.

Short Scar Facelift: This type of facelift is usually a SMAS type facelift with limited incisions (still large).

S Shape Facelift: This is a mini facelift procedure, where the incision created is shaped like an “S,” and is located within the hairline and ear.

Limited Incision Facelift: This is a mini facelift where the incisions extend from the sideburns to the earlobe.

Endoscopic Facelift: A facelift that utilizes an endoscope to visualize hard to reach areas Very small with incisions. This can be a full facelift.

Lifestyle Lift: This is a marketing term used to describe a superficial lift that only involves skin repositioning. This quick skin lift uses a larger incision. This method has lost traction due to severe hypertrophic scarring.

Weekend Facelift: A marketing term that is another term for a mini facelift.

Mini Lift, or Mini Facelift: Popular because of its minimal recovery, this superficial lift only targets skin repositioning. It’s not known to last and can create a “pulled” look.

Quick Recovery Lift: This is a marketing term used to describe a superficial lift that only involves skin repositioning. It’s not known to last and can create a “pulled” look.

No Scar Lift: How is this possible? This lift utilizes incisions on both the scalp and inside of the mouth. These lifts aren’t usually effective and similar to thread lifts, abnormal scarring is caused by uneven tension. These lifts also interfere with normal aging. Layers of tissue should be independently separated, moved up as a flap and independently secured.