A firm, harmonious lower jawline gives the face expression, youthfulness, and contour. However, to achieve truly natural results, it is not enough to work only on the skin or the superficial layers. The key lies in addressing the deeper tissue structures that tend to loosen or descend over time.
The Foundation: The SMAS and the Deeper Structures
The focus of my lecture was the further development of the so-called SMAS technique (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System). This method allows for precise lifting and repositioning of the deeper muscle and connective tissue layers of the face—targeting exactly where natural aging processes originate.
By carefully preparing and vertically elevating these layers, the face can be not only rejuvenated but also harmoniously reshaped—for example, to emphasize the jawline or to slim the lower face.
A particular refinement of my approach involves the use of subplatysmal sutures. These additional fixation sutures placed beneath the superficial muscle layer help achieve an even better definition of the neck and jawline.
At the same time, they reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding and allow for a gentle elevation of descended salivary glands—an often underestimated aspect of achieving a balanced and natural facial profile.
Natural Results in Facelift Surgery
In addition to lifting the deeper structures, fine contouring of the midface also plays a crucial role. Through targeted tissue repositioning or subtle volume adjustment, the face can be gently shaped without appearing overcorrected. The result is a naturally fresh, contoured appearance that enhances, rather than alters, the individual facial character.
My Takeaway from the GÄCD 2025
The 37th Annual Meeting of the GÄCD was a great success. The congress was fully booked, the lectures were of outstanding quality, and the collegial exchange was truly inspiring. I am delighted to continue sharing my knowledge with colleagues within the GÄCD framework and to actively contribute to the ongoing development of modern treatment techniques.
It was particularly encouraging to see that aesthetic facial surgery had a strong presence this year. At the same time, topics such as energy-based devices and injectable treatments were well represented in the program. The diversity of themes was especially exciting. The Longevity segment offered valuable insights into new approaches in holistic rejuvenation medicine.
My esteemed colleague Dr. Michael Wagener from Basel presented the latest findings on GLP-1 treatments, which are increasingly gaining attention in the aesthetic context.
Also impressive were Dr. Daniel Brusco’s presentation on chin-wing osteotomy, a precise surgical technique for jawline contouring, and Dr. Michael Radenhausen’s talk on laser lipolysis for jawline optimization.
Particularly noteworthy was Dr. Alexander Fischell’s striking case report “Necrosis after Facelift Abroad”, which powerfully underscored the importance of safety standards and solid surgical expertise.
Another highlight was the keynote by Dr. Daria Hamrah from the USA, who contributed valuable international perspectives to the discussion. Equally inspiring was Dr. Felix Bertram’s presentation, offering fascinating insights into his business approach and thought-provoking ideas on longevity.
Overall, the congress provided an excellent platform for professional exchange, scientific inspiration, and collegial networking—a true highlight in the annual calendar of aesthetic medicine.
