The mini facelift is a less invasive procedure for patients looking to firm up jowls, or smooth away neck aging or facial lines and wrinkles.
What Makes it “Mini”?
The term “mini” for this type of facelift has multiple meanings. This facelift is also known as the S-Lift because the shape of the incision used is in a shorter “S” shape, instead of the longer incisions made for a traditional facelift. Because the S-lift is less invasive, the chance of complications is lowered and the procedure is shorter. Recovery is shorter and easier as well. Finally, the effects of the mini facelift don’t last quite as long as a full facelift. Thus, it’s “mini” all around.
But just because it’s a shorter, simpler procedure, doesn’t mean the results aren’t excellent. You can expect firmer, smoother, more contoured skin and lines in the face. The mini facelift lifts sagging skin and smooths wrinkles, giving your face a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance.
Who is the mini facelift for?
While the mini facelift will also work for older patients with stronger signs of aging, it is also perfect for patients with good skin quality and less sagging in the jaw and neck. These early signs of aging can be targeted in much the same way as a traditional facelift, although the mini is slightly more limited. Many patients will be able to take years off of their face, looking 10-15 years younger.
Some call this procedure the “lunchtime lift” or the “weekend lift” because it is so much shorter and less involved than the traditional facelift. If you’re looking for a procedure that is less invasive with a faster recovery time, the mini facelift might be ideal for you.
What is the recovery time?
A mini facelift requires about a week of recovery. This shorter recovery time is one of the main benefits of a mini facelift. The swelling and bruising of the mini facelift is much less than a full facelift or other more invasive procedures, allowing patients to return to their regular activities faster.
The bruising will lighten up in just a few days. The swelling will be gone in 3-5 days after the surgery. In a little over a week, you can expect a full recovery, with no further visible signs of the procedure other than a more youthful, sculpted, and contoured face.
How long will the results last?
For most patients, a mini facelift will easily last around ten years.
A mini facelift has the drawback that it doesn’t last as long as a full facelift, which can last up to 20 years. The reason a full facelift lasts longer is because the full facelift addresses all the tissues and skin, where the mini facelift targets and tightens only some areas of the face.
While the mini facelift may need updating in a decade, the beautiful results combined with the shorter procedure and recovery time make it an excellent option for many clients.
For more information on this and other facial plastic surgeries, please reach out for a personal consultation with Dr. Rousso, or use our online contact form to inquire.
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