A mini face lift is a procedure that focuses on tightening the lower face and jawline, using a shorter incision than a traditional face lift.
It can be suitable for patients who are looking for a less extensive approach while still addressing some degree of skin laxity. Since the procedure requires fewer incisions, the recovery process tends to be shorter than a full face lift, but it is still a surgical procedure that involves a healing period.
If you are considering a mini face lift, you may have questions about how the procedure works, what to expect during recovery, and whether it is the right option for you. In this blog, we will go through the details of the surgery and address some of the most common questions patients have.
How does a mini face lift differ from a traditional face lift?
The main difference between a mini face lift, and a traditional face lift is the extent of the procedure.
A full facelift typically addresses more significant skin laxity and involves longer incisions that extend from the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes into the lower scalp. It is also often combined with other procedures, such as neck lift surgery, to extend the treatment area and achieve a comprehensive result.
A mini facelift, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the lower face and is performed through shorter incisions. Since the procedure is typically considered as less extensive, the recovery time may be shorter, but the results may not be as extensive as those of a full facelift.
Who is a suitable candidate for a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is often suitable for patients who have mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face, but aren’t looking for as extensive as an approach as a full facelift.
Since a mini face lift primarily addresses the jawline and lower face, those with significant skin laxity in other areas, such as the neck, may need to discuss if a full face lift can be more suitable.
Essentially, the suitability of a mini facelift depends on your personal needs and what you want to address with surgery. Other factors, such as general health and level of skin laxity present, will also be discussed during a consultation to determine suitability.
How a mini facelift is performed
To perform a mini facelift, incisions are typically placed around the ears, following the natural contours of the skin to minimise their visibility once healed.
Through these incisions, the underlying tissues are adjusted, and excess skin is removed. While a full facelift involves more extensive lifting, a mini facelift is designed to specifically target the lower part of the face, including the jawline and sometimes the upper neck.
The surgical process is generally quicker than a full facelift, however, the specific approach will always depend on the patient’s anatomy and the extent of the procedure being performed.
What to expect during recovery
Recovery after a mini facelift varies from person to person, but it is generally less extensive than a full facelift.
Since the incisions are smaller, the initial healing period tends to be slightly shorter – however, as with any surgical procedure, there will still be some swelling and bruising, particularly around the lower face and jawline.
Patients are usually advised to rest for the first few days after surgery and to keep their head elevated to minimise swelling. It is usually advised to take some time off work and daily activities in the initial recovery period, with most patients returning to non-strenuous activities within one to two weeks. However, anything that involves heavy lifting or more strenuous exercise will generally need to be avoided for longer to prevent strain on the healing tissues.
Bruising and swelling will be most noticeable in the first couple of weeks, but they will gradually subside. While most of the visible swelling subsides within a few weeks, it’s normal to take several months for the tissues to fully heal.
During recovery, patients will need to have regular follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor the healing process and follow all post-operative instructions provided to support their recovery.
How long do the results of a mini facelift last?
As a surgical procedure, a mini facelift achieves a permanent change, but results are considered long-lasting as it still doesn’t prevent skin laxity from progressing.
The longevity of mini facelift results depends on multiple factors, including the patient’s skin quality, the natural ageing process, and lifestyle habits – such as sun exposure and smoking. Some patients may choose to have additional procedures in the future to maintain the results.
Can a mini face lift be combined with other procedures?
A mini face lift is sometimes performed alongside other procedures, depending on the patient’s goals.
For example, some patients choose to combine it with procedures such as eyelid surgery or brow lift surgery to address other areas of the face.
If any additional procedures are being considered, Dr Hunt will discuss how they can be incorporated into your overall treatment plan.
Will there be visible scarring?
Since a mini facelift involves smaller incisions than a traditional facelift, the scarring can generally be more discreet.
The incisions are usually placed around the natural contours of the ears, and once fully healed, they are not typically noticeable – however, the way scars heal can vary between patients.
Following post-operative care instructions, including avoiding excessive sun exposure, can help with the healing process. Over time, scars will also tend to fade and become less visible.
Why to choose Dr Hunt for mini face lift surgery in Sydney
It’s important to choose a thoroughly experienced surgeon with the right qualifications for any type of surgical procedure.
Performing plastic surgery and non-surgical procedures, Dr Jeremy Hunt is a qualified Sydney-based Specialist Plastic Surgeon with more than 20 years of experience.
Taking a patient-centred approach, Dr Hunt has seen thousands of patients with varying individual needs and expectations.
To arrange a consultation with Dr Hunt or ask any more questions about a mini face lift that we haven’t answered here, please contact our team.
