Mini-Facelift
- Procedures
- Face
- Mini-Facelift
Evidence Based
The mini-facelift goes by a variety of different names such as “S-lift”, “weekend facelift”, “ponytail facelift” and the “lunchtime facelift”. However, each one is simply a version of the same base procedure. A mini-facelift provides patients with a refreshed look by suspending the SMAS facial muscle, however, the effects are less dramatic than a traditional facelift.
E
Written By: Erin Storm, PA-C
Article History
Procedure Overview
Concerns
Ideal Candidate
Recovery
Side Effects
Results
Average Cost
Pros
- Smaller Incision
- Smaller Scar
- Shorter Recovery Time
Cons
- Temporary
- Upkeep Procedures
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 weeks
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Surgical Procedure
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$3500 - $8000
AEDITpro
Before & After Images by Provider
John Burns, MD
Mini-Facelift
Dallas, TX
Edward Kwak, MD
Mini-Facelift
New York, NY
Mini-FaceliftBefore & After Images by Provider
The Specifics
What is a mini-facelift?
A mini-facelift is a plastic surgery procedure utilizing smaller incisions to create a more youthful appearance, especially in the cheek and jowl area. The surgical techniques used in a mini-facelift are similar to those of a traditional facelift, however, the incisions are smaller, and, therefore, the results are less dramatic, although the mini-facelift still achieves long-term natural-looking results.
A mini-facelift removes excess skin, tightens loose skin, and alters underlying muscle. This plastic surgery can be used to correct sagging cheeks, skin laxity in the jawline, midface sagging, marionette lines, jowls, and double chins. Mini-facelifts are sometimes combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance results in the upper, mid, and lower face.
What cosmetic concerns does a mini-facelift procedure treat?
Facial Skin Laxity: A mini-facelift uses similar techniques as seen in a traditional facelift to alter excess skin, loose skin, excess fat, connective tissue, and underlying muscle.
Who is the ideal candidate for a mini-facelift procedure?
The ideal candidate for a mini-facelift is a younger individual with sagging jowls and minimal signs of aging in the neck area. A mini-facelift is not recommended for those with more severe facial wrinkling, loose skin in the neck, or wrinkling in the eye area. These concerns would benefit from a traditional facelift approach.
What is the average recovery associated with a mini-facelift procedure?
The recovery time associated with a mini-facelift is significantly shorter than that of more traditional facelift surgical techniques. Most facelift patients experience one week of acute symptoms, and can return to public outings and work within one week. Limitations on strenuous physical activity may be recommended for up to two to three weeks.
To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to facelift recovery.
What are the potential side effects of a mini-facelift procedure?
Possible side effects following a mini-facelift include bruising and swelling, redness, disturbances in sensation, tightness, sensitivity, nerve damage, and facial asymmetry.
What can someone expect from the results of a mini-facelift procedure?
The results of a mini-facelift will be noticeable immediately after the procedure. The results may last up to 10 years, but will change naturally with aging, use, gravity, and sun exposure.
What is the average cost of a mini-facelift procedure?
A mini-facelift procedure can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $8,000. The actual cost of a mini-facelift is dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of a facelift.
Pros
- Smaller Incision
- Smaller Scar
- Shorter Recovery Time
Cons
- Temporary
- Upkeep Procedures
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
The mini-facelift suspends the SMAS facial muscle, however, the effects are less dramatic than a traditional facelift. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a mini facelift.
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation
- Incision is made at the hairline, extending behind the ear but not to the upper forehead
- SMAS muscle is raised
- SMAS muscle is either plicated or imbricated
- Sutures to close
Immediately After Treatment
- Swelling and bruising
1-7 Days After Treatment
- Postoperative bandages removed after 2-3 days
- Comfortable in public after 3-5 days
- Take antibiotics and pain medication as prescribed
1-2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Return to work
- Avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks
Result Notes
- Long lasting however not permanent
- Lasts for 5-10 years
- Results affected by continued aging and gravity
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation
- Incision is made at the hairline, extending behind the ear but not to the upper forehead
- SMAS muscle is raised
- SMAS muscle is either plicated or imbricated
- Sutures to close
Immediately After Treatment
- Swelling and bruising
1-7 Days After Treatment
- Postoperative bandages removed after 2-3 days
- Comfortable in public after 3-5 days
- Take antibiotics and pain medication as prescribed
1-2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Return to work
- Avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks
Result Notes
- Long lasting however not permanent
- Lasts for 5-10 years
- Results affected by continued aging and gravity
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation
- Incision is made at the hairline, extending behind the ear but not to the upper forehead
- SMAS muscle is raised
- SMAS muscle is either plicated or imbricated
- Sutures to close
Immediately After Treatment
- Swelling and bruising
1-7 Days After Treatment
- Postoperative bandages removed after 2-3 days
- Comfortable in public after 3-5 days
- Take antibiotics and pain medication as prescribed
1-2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Return to work
- Avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks
Result Notes
- Long lasting however not permanent
- Lasts for 5-10 years
- Results affected by continued aging and gravity
The Takeaway
A mini-facelift is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed by an expert plastic surgeon that utilizes smaller incisions for a less invasive surgical technique. The facelift results of a mini-facelift will not be as dramatic as those of a more traditional facelift surgery, however, recovery time will be significantly shorter. A mini-facelift can create significant facial rejuvenation and a more youthful appearance.
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