Hemostatic net is a suture system that fixes the skin to the underlying soft tissues at the end of facelift surgery. We create a mesh of sutures over the skin. This mesh allows the potential space under the skin to close.

During facelift surgery, when we lift the tissues from their base, we create a potential space (pocket). Blood may accumulate in this area after surgery. Blood collecting under the skin after surgery is one of the most common complications of facelift procedures. In the literature, it is reported to occur in about 7–12% of cases. This complication is called a hematoma, which means blood mass in Latin. It is an unpleasant situation because it may require the patient to return to the operating room urgently. If the bleeding is not drained, the blood circulation of the skin tissue may be impaired and tissue loss may occur. The blood inside may also create a risk for infection. Even in the best-case scenario, the patient may experience swelling and bruising for 6–12 weeks.

 

Hemostatic net sutures are used to prevent bleeding complications after surgery
Image date: 1–3 days after the before photograph

 

The hemostatic net reduces the rate of hematoma formation to around 1–2%. Even if bleeding occurs under the suture mesh, it cannot expand. Bleeding that is contained by the hemostatic net can be cleaned the next morning at the bedside by irrigating with a thin cannula.

I would say it is one of the most important developments in facial rejuvenation in the last 10 years.

 

Hemostatic net sutures are removed on the second day after surgery and do not leave scars.

Image date: 1–3 days after the before photograph

 

The sutures remain in place for about 2–3 days and are then removed.
Mild pressure marks may remain from the sutures, but they disappear on their own within 2–3 weeks, meaning there is no permanent suture scar.

When we apply the hemostatic net, there is no need to use drains. Therefore, we also eliminate the inconvenience of placing and removing drains after surgery.

The main disadvantage of the technique is that it creates an unpleasant appearance on the face for the first 2–3 days, similar to crocodile skin or a fishing net. This appearance is already camouflaged under the compression garment that we place on the patient.

This technique emerged in early 2020 and quickly became popular among facial surgeons worldwide. I have used it in more than 400 cases to date, and it has become one of the indispensable parts of my facelift surgeries.

You can contact us to receive more detailed information about the technique.

Stay well,
Stay beautiful.