What is a Mini-Facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, involves tightening the lower facial and neck muscles, as well as removing excess skin. The term “facelift” is actually a misnomer. A more accurate term for a facelift would be a lower face and neck lift. Full rejuvenation of facial gravitational skin laxity would require a combination of a facelift, cheek implants, upper and lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and brow lifting.
There are many different procedures for rhytidectomy. The differences are primarily related to the type of incision, invasiveness, and the area of the face being treated. Each surgeon practices multiple types of facelift surgery. At a consultation, the procedure with the best outcome is chosen for every patient.
The patient’s expectations, age, possible recovery time, and areas to improve are among the many factors considered when choosing a rhytidectomy technique, specifically the less invasive type of full facelift. The primary difference between the full facelift and the mini-lift procedure is the omission of extensive neck lifting in the latter. It is also known as the S lift due to the shape of the incision used, also referred to as a short-scar facelift. This lift is a more temporary solution for facial aging, with less downtime, suitable for individuals who have deep nasolabial folds and sagging facial structure, yet still maintain a firm and well-contoured neck. The position of the incision is usually made from the hairline around the ear, with scars hidden in the natural crease of the skin and the posterior ear hairline. Following this, the underlying skin structures are tightened, which helps ensure a more lasting result. Then, the surgeon repositioned the skin with small sutures. This type of lift is a suitable alternative to a full facelift for individuals with moderate signs of skin laxity.
Another option is the weekend facelift. The weekend facelift is the least invasive type of facelift; the only difference is the omission of the neck lifting and posterior ear incision in the weekend facelift procedure. The position of the incision is typically made from the hairline around the ear, with scars concealed in the natural skin crease. The weekend facelift was designed for younger patients, usually in their 40s, with mild lower facial jowling. The weekend facelift recovery typically takes about 5 days, hence the term “weekend facelift.” This type of lift is a suitable alternative to a full facelift for individuals with minimal signs of skin laxity.