What Is a Mini Facelift?
A mini facelift, sometimes called an S-lift, is designed to enhance the appearance of aging in the lower third of the face, specifically targeting the chin, jawline, and neck. Since this procedure focuses on a smaller area, it is less invasive and involves smaller incisions. As a result, many patients enjoy a relatively quick recovery. However, it’s important to note that the procedure may also provide more modest results compared to a full facelift.
Mini Facelift vs. Facelift
In general, both procedures are for the same type of patient: a man or a woman who’s noticing unwanted sagging, skin laxity, and general signs of aging in the face. In a mini facelift, the “mini” part refers to the treatment area. It’s focused on the chin and the neck, producing subtler results that smooth the lower face and restore a more youthful jawline.
As the name “S-lift” suggests, a mini facelift is achieved via an S-shaped incision in front of the ear. This limits the invasiveness of the procedure, which in turn shortens the recovery time. Many patients feel comfortable resuming normal activities after about one week.
A full facelift is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, but overall, the procedure extends to the midface, producing more striking results for patients who are in search of a more dramatic change to address deeper facial wrinkles. Full transformations often involve eyelid surgery to eliminate bags and sagging eyelid skin for total facial rejuvenation.
Candidates for a Mini Facelift
Aside from the delineations in treatment goals discussed above, mini facelift patients often share a few common traits:
- They want subtle, natural-looking results.
- They aren’t looking to address significant jowls or neck sagging.
- They present with milder wrinkles and sagging skin.
- They want a quicker recovery.
If you’re wondering the best age for getting a facelift, read our related blog post.
Candidates for a Full Facelift
On the other hand, a full facelift may be the better choice for patients who…
- Want to reverse signs of aging in the cheeks, mid-face, and neck.
- Express a strong desire to “turn back the clock” or want dramatic results.
- Present with more pronounced sagging skin in the neck and lower face.
- Understand and accept that recovery time is a bit longer, on the order of 4 to 6 weeks for complete results.
That said, there is also a broad spectrum between the two, and a more custom procedure may be right for you. Dr. Freeman will listen to your needs and goals and work with you to develop the best approach.
Get Started
If you’ve made it this far, you’re well on your way to imagining what’s possible for you. The next step is talking through it with one of our surgeons. Request a consultation online, or call our Idaho Falls location at (208) 881-5351 to schedule your appointment.
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