While facelift surgery can produce transformational results, the prospect of undergoing invasive facial surgery is intimidating for some. Likewise, some feel that their facial aging isn’t quite extensive enough for a full facelift.
Fortunately, a mini facelift can bridge the gap between non-invasive procedures and a traditional facelift. This versatile surgery effectively addresses the major signs of age, but without the discomfort and inconvenience associated with full facelifts. Below, we’ll be exploring why sometimes, less is more when it comes to facial rejuvenation.
No General Anesthesia
One of the main things patients worry about is general anesthesia. The idea of “going under” is a fear shared by many. But it’s not just the fear of being unconscious that prevents people from pursuing cosmetic surgery: general anesthesia is simply inconvenient for some lifestyles. It typically requires a longer recovery, and patients have to arrange a ride to and from their surgeon’s office.
With a mini facelift, you no longer have to worry about these concerns. For ultimate convenience, safety, and comfort, a mini facelift can be performed as an in-office procedure using local anesthesia. That means you can get the look you want without a significant disruption of your regular routine. And for those who are sensitive to general anesthesia, this eliminates the risk of experiencing unpleasant side effects.
Quicker Recovery
A mini facelift doesn’t address as big of an area as a traditional facelift, and it uses a less-invasive technique. Mini facelifts only address the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which is the layer of tissue directly beneath the skin that spans from the collarbone up to the forehead.
This technique combines the best of both worlds: it lifts deeper structures of the face to create a natural-looking lift, but it doesn’t require the surgeon to go as deep as a deep plane facelift, which targets tissue below the SMAS. This less-invasive technique, coupled with using local anesthesia, makes recovery much quicker and more comfortable. Patients can expect to have less bruising, swelling, and tenderness after a mini facelift.
Less Potential Scarring
With any surgery, many patients have concerns about the potential for visible scarring. After all, what’s the point of undergoing cosmetic enhancements if you’re left with unsightly scars? As discussed above, a mini facelift takes a much less aggressive approach to facial rejuvenation when compared to a full facelift. Accordingly, the procedure requires shorter incisions, which results in less facial scarring.
The incisions made in a mini facelift are hidden within the natural contours of the face, and they are typically placed along the hairline and the curves of the ears. With proper aftercare, most patients find that their scars from a mini facelift are essentially imperceptible. That said, even a full facelift produces very minimal scarring when performed by an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Matt Hershcovitch. During facelift surgery, Dr. Hershcovitch takes great care to make incisions as meticulously as possible to reduce the potential for visible scarring.
Powerful Results
“Less invasive” doesn’t mean that you can’t get great results from your surgery. When performed on the right candidate, a mini facelift can beautifully restore what age and other factors have altered. If you have mild to moderate facial aging, then a mini facelift might be just what you need to achieve a naturally refreshed appearance.
Patients who attain the best results from a mini facelift typically exhibit the following:
- Mild skin laxity on the midface, lower face, and neck
- Diminished jawline definition
- Wrinkles on the lower third of the face
If you have moderate signs of aging on your upper face, you may benefit from combining your mini facelift with injectables. Botox and dermal fillers can smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and they can provide subtle lift to areas that are starting to droop. If you have more advanced aging – like severe sagging and jowling – then a traditional facelift might better suit your needs.
If you’re considering a facial rejuvenation procedure, the next step is a consultation. Dr. Matt Hershcovitch is double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. His compassionate demeanor and extensive experience have made him a leader in facial plastic surgery. Contact him today to set up your personal consultation.
