Facelift & Mini-Facelift Are Both Surgical Procedures

Both the mini facelift and the full facelift are surgical procedures. The choice of the “mini” version does not mean that no incisions or anesthetic is involved. A mini facelift is a same-day procedure, but it is possible you may need general anesthetic. While some patients may require an overnight hospital stay after a full facelift, it is not necessary in all cases.

No matter which of the two types of surgical procedures is appropriate for you, it is necessary that you meet all general health requirements for safe surgery.

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The Names Say It All

In essence, the difference between a traditional facelift and a mini-facelift is the section of the facial structure that will be addressed. The general idea of a facelift is to use surgery to separate skin, tissue and muscle so tissue can be tightened, removed or contoured as needed. This approach makes it possible to achieve a more lasting effect than is possible through dermal injections or other procedures and to address issues that other techniques cannot successfully remedy.

A mini facelift is basically the same type of procedure as the full facelift, with the mid-section of the face being treated. Less tissue is removed or adjusted, and it requires less time to perform.

Is There A Difference In How Long They Last?

Because both a mini facelift and a full facelift result in changes in the actual skin and tissue on your face, rather than altering their appearance via techniques such as fillers or BOTOX, you will retain the results from these procedures for a longer period of time than can be achieved with modern injectables. However, the results from a mini facelift may produce rejuvenation for five years or longer, typically about half the time that you could expect to retain the benefits of a full facelift. This is largely a reflection of the fact that a smaller portion of your face (and the underlying tissue and muscle) has been tightened. Thus, the areas that were not addressed by the mini facelift will be subject to the aging process, and thus more affected by loss of elasticity, sagging, and the deepening of wrinkles and creases.

Which Is Right For Me, A Full Facelift Or A Mini-Facelift?

The more significant the issues you want to correct, the less likely a “mini” approach will produce the rejuvenation you want. In general, the mini facelift is most advised for patients who want to address relatively minor sagging in areas such as the jaw, neck and lower face.
However serious your cosmetic issues may seem to you, our board-certified plastic surgeon is most qualified to determine what procedure will best resolve them. An examination and consultation will give you the clarity and certainty you need to move forward.

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Recovery

Not surprisingly, the recovery time for a mini facelift is less than that for a full facelift. The incisions are smaller and heal more quickly. Less tissue is affected. In this respect, it is less invasive than a full facelift.

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