What Is a Three-Dimensional Facelift and How Does It Differ from a Traditional Facelift?

If your face no longer reflects how vibrant you feel, you’re not alone. Loss of volume, sagging skin, and deep folds can leave your appearance feeling hollow or tired. But what if you could bring back a youthful look using your body’s natural resources?

At Friedman Plastics & ENT, Dr. Bryan Friedman specializes in facial plastics and cosmetic surgery using innovative three-dimensional facelift techniques. A graduate of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Dr. Friedman holds triple board certification in cosmetic, facial plastic, and otolaryngologic surgery. He completed advanced fellowship training and now utilizes fat transfer to restore fullness and achieve a natural contour.

Traditional Facelift vs. Three-Dimensional Facelift

Facelifts have evolved far beyond the skin-tightening methods of the past. Traditional techniques focused primarily on lifting and removing sagging skin. While this created a smoother appearance, it often left the face looking flat and unnatural.

A three-dimensional facelift adds depth and fullness by combining lifting techniques with fat grafting. This dual approach restores youthful contour by replacing lost volume. Rather than just pulling skin tight, the face is artistically sculpted for natural, refreshed results.

How a Fat Transfer Facelift Works

The three-dimensional facelift begins with small, well-hidden incisions typically placed around the ears. Once these incisions are made, Dr. Friedman gently lifts the skin and underlying layers to reposition facial tissue and improve contours without putting tension on the skin.

Next, fat is harvested from another part of the body — often the abdomen or thighs — and carefully purified. This fat is then injected into key facial areas, including the cheeks, temples, and jawline. This approach restores lost volume, softens deep lines, and helps bring back the structure associated with a more youthful face.

Benefits of Combining Lift and Volume Restoration

Rejuvenation shouldn’t be one-dimensional. The combination of lift and volume sets this technique apart. Here are some standout advantages:

• Natural-looking results: The face appears refreshed, not stretched.
• Customized outcomes: Fat is placed with artistic precision based on your facial structure.
• Minimal scarring: Incisions are discreetly hidden in natural creases.
• Long-term enhancement: Fat grafts often become permanent over time.

According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, more than half a million facial fat grafting procedures are performed worldwide each year, with satisfaction rates exceeding 90% for both patients and surgeons. 

Discover the Benefits of a Fat Transfer Facelift Today

Ready to bring youthful volume and soft contours back to your face? Call (480) 664-0125 in Scottsdale or (928) 478-6891 in Payson to discuss your facelift surgery options with Dr. Bryan Friedman.