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What Is a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

The goal of this surgery is to tighten loose skin around the lower section of the face. It also aims to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and addresses excess skin. The procedure is designed for people who want to address the appearance of their facial features but don’t want to undergo a Full Facelift (Rhytidectomy).

It is also known as an S-Lift because of its curved incision, which begins in the hairline at the temple and continues along the natural line in front of the ear, curving behind the earlobe and into the lower scalp. It is considered less invasive yet very similar to a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy).

While this procedure does not offer as much change to your appearance as a Full Facelift (Rhytidectomy), it can help to reduce (or delay) the desire for more invasive surgery and is generally less expensive than a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy).

Why Patients Might Consider a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Patients might consider a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) procedure in comparison to a Full/Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy) for a number of reasons, including:

A shorter recovery period

Since the procedure is less invasive than a traditional or Deep Plane Facelift (Rhytidectomy), recovery is generally shorter. Most patients can return to their normal activities within 2 weeks of the procedure. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is still a surgical procedure and recovery time may also depend on the patient’s commitment to post-surgical instructions.

Less scarring

Since a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) procedure involves smaller incisions than a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Procedure, there is generally less scarring.

More subtle results

Unlike a complete Facelift (Rhytidectomy), a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is sought by patients who want more subtle results, whilst still aiming to alter their appearance.

Prevention

A Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) may be suited to people who would like to address the signs of ageing and prevent further facial procedures in the short term.

The procedure is less expensive

The procedure is less expensive than a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy).

Fewer risks of complications

There are fewer risks of complications, including nerve damage and poor healing when compared to a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy).

Address ageing

Though Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) surgery will not stop or reverse ageing, it aims to address earlier signs of ageing.

Are You a Suitable Candidate for Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery?

Candidates for the Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) are generally younger and have minor to moderate laxity of their facial skin, cheek, nasolabial area (from nose to the corner of mouth), and jowls.

In addition to reducing wrinkles and skin laxity on your face, a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) aims to address your jawline. If you have already had a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy), you may find that the Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) can provide additional results. Generally speaking, a good candidate for the Mini Facelift:

Wants a subtle result
Has minor to moderate signs of ageing
Understands that the Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) does not address the brows or excess skin around your neck area
Is in good overall health
Is a non-smoker or can stop smoking for a few weeks prior to and after the surgery

If you don’t have a lot of excess skin or laxity in your neck, you might be a good candidate for a Mini-Facelift (Rhytidectomy). The incision used in the Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is smaller than Traditional Facelifts (Rhytidectomy) because this procedure doesn’t include much skin reduction. It focuses more on the tissues underneath the skin.

If the skin around your neck has lost a lot of elasticity, or if you have lost a lot of weight recently, you might benefit more from a Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy).

Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgical Procedure

Here are some quick facts about the Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) procedure:

Anaesthesia

It is usually performed under general anaesthesia. The procedure can be done as a day case or overnight stay in the hospital. As the Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) procedure is often combined with other procedures, the type of anaesthesia depends on the complexity of the intervention.

Surgery length

The surgery takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Recovery

Within a few weeks you should recover fully. The time frame depends on how extensive the procedure was. If someone has minimal signs of ageing, a less aggressive technique can be applied, reducing recovery time.

Back to work or exercise

You can get back to work within 1 to 2 weeks. But avoid exercising for a month or so. Strenuous exercise may raise your blood pressure and cause bleeding at the surgical site.

Final results

You can expect to see the full effects of your surgery after between 4 and 6 months when all swelling has subsided and the scars have healed.

The incisions for a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) are smaller than Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy), and the skin is lifted less than when the traditional one is performed. The Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) scar is also shorter than the Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy). A small incision is made in front of the ear and behind the ear lobe, usually measuring around 5 centimetres long. The skin is pulled back, moving the deeper tissues and lifting the face, before being stitched back into position. The underlying muscles and tendons are stitched to a tighter position.

Recovery After a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery

After the Facelift (Rhytidectomy), you can expect to experience swelling and bruising. This may persist for several weeks, but this can usually be covered up with makeup after a few days. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medicine to help mitigate any discomfort.

There are variations in how long the pain medicines need to be taken. And again, it depends on how much work was done during the procedure. The amount of discomfort after surgery will also depend on your health condition before the procedure.

After a Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy), your face may be wrapped in gauze for 24 hours. In some cases, Dr Hunt might use drains, which are tubes that drain away excess blood and fluid. Also, expect to feel groggy and a little out of it for the first day or two after surgery.

Surgery Aftercare

Dr Hunt will give you some instructions to follow after surgery. You may need to keep your head elevated for a few days after surgery. This position can help reduce swelling and bruising. You may need to sleep with several pillows under your head and shoulders. Additionally, you should avoid smoking and vaping throughout your recovery.

Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Cost in Sydney NSW

The Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) price range in Sydney varies based on many factors. The price depends on the surgical facility, anaesthesia and amount of surgery time required.

Is Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) surgery covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

Medicare and insurance in Australia do not usually cover the costs of a Facelift (Rhytidectomy) as it’s considered a purely cosmetic surgery.

Dr Hunt Mini Facelift Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mini facelift?

A mini facelift, also called a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that tightens skin on the lower face. It is less extensive than a traditional or deep plane facelift, using smaller incisions to address skin laxity and wrinkles around the jawline and cheeks.

How much does a mini facelift cost in Australia (and Sydney)?

The cost of a mini facelift in Sydney varies depending on hospital fees, anaesthesia, and how much surgery time is needed. Medicare and private health insurance generally do not cover the procedure, as facelifts are considered cosmetic. A consultation is required for an exact estimate.

Where are the scars for a mini facelift?

Scars from a mini facelift are shorter than those from a traditional facelift. They usually start in the hairline at the temple, curve in front of the ear, and finish behind the earlobe. These incisions are designed to follow natural creases, making them less noticeable.

What is involved in a mini facelift?

The surgery usually takes one to two hours under general anaesthesia. Dr Hunt makes small incisions, lifts the skin, adjusts underlying tissues, and then secures them in place. Some patients go home the same day, while others may stay overnight depending on the extent of surgery.

What is the difference between a mini facelift and a lower facelift?

A mini facelift focuses on tightening skin in the mid to lower face with smaller incisions and less recovery time. A lower facelift, on the other hand, targets skin and muscles more extensively in the jowls, jawline, and sometimes the neck area.

What is the difference between a mini facelift and a full facelift?

A full facelift lifts both the skin and deeper tissues across the face and neck, offering more extensive changes. A mini facelift only adjusts skin in the lower face, making it less invasive, with smaller scars, shorter recovery, and more subtle results.

How long does it take to recover from mini facelift?

Most people return to normal activities within two weeks, although recovery can vary depending on the surgical approach and the individual. Swelling and bruising may persist for several weeks, and it usually takes four to six months for final results to fully subside.

How painful is a mini facelift?

Discomfort varies but is generally manageable with prescribed pain relief. Swelling and tightness in the first few days are expected. Most patients find the recovery less difficult compared to a traditional facelift, as the surgery involves smaller incisions and less extensive tissue adjustment.

What to expect after a mini facelift?

After surgery, your face may be bandaged for a day and sometimes drains are placed to reduce fluid build-up. Swelling and bruising are common for several weeks. Dr Hunt will provide aftercare instructions, including keeping your head elevated and avoiding smoking during recovery.

When can you exercise after mini facelift?

Light daily activity is encouraged soon after surgery, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for about a month. Returning to exercise too soon can increase swelling and bleeding. Most patients resume normal routines within two weeks but wait longer before vigorous activity.

Does a facelift target the neck?

A mini facelift generally does not target the neck. It is designed to lift and tighten skin on the lower face and jawline. If neck laxity or excess skin is a concern, a traditional facelift or a combined neck procedure may be more suitable.

How long does it take to look normal after a mini facelift?

Initial swelling and bruising usually improve within two weeks, allowing many people to resume work and social activities. However, the face continues to settle for several months. Most patients see their final, more natural appearance between four and six months post-surgery.

What can you not do after a mini facelift?

In the first few weeks, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise, smoking, and anything that raises blood pressure or puts strain on the incisions. Keeping your head elevated, not bending over, and following your surgeon’s aftercare advice are all key to recovery.

When can I wash my hair after a mini facelift?

Most patients can wash their hair within a few days of surgery, once bandages are removed and wounds are checked. Gentle washing with mild shampoo is recommended, avoiding heat styling until healing has progressed. Always follow the specific instructions given by your surgeon.

Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Sydney - an alternative to Traditional Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery.

Mini Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery with Dr Hunt