Am I a good candidate for a mini-lift?

Mini-Lifts are used for less severe aging changes which typically begin in the 4th-5th decade of life including the loss of skin elasticity, loose skin, loss of jawline definition, and jowling. If you are interested in preventing further aging changes or prefer a more natural intervention that avoids injectables, Mini-Lift resuspension is a good choice. If you have more extensive jowling, neck laxity, heavy facial volume (fat), or drooping of the midface, then you would not be an ideal candidate for Mini-Lift. A full facelift would be a better option for you.

How is a mini-lift performed?

Mini-Lift is short for mini-facelift and the surgery is targeted to a specific area (i.e. jowls or neck or midface). The incisions are relatively smaller and usually made in the hairline around the temples or behind the ears. Sometimes a suture/thread is used to help reposition fat pads and soft tissue. Typically a portion of facial muscle and associated fascia is tightened and a small portion of skin is removed. Surgery is done under light or moderate sedation with local anesthesia and usually takes 1-2 hours to complete.

What is recovery like for a mini-lift?

There is usually mild discomfort, bruising, redness and swelling for 1-2 weeks.

What are the disadvantages or risks of a mini-lift?

The main disadvantage of a Mini-Lift is that it is, in fact, a “Mini-” intervention. This means the surgical result is less robust than a traditional full facelift so patient selection is very important. It will not work for more severe facial aging changes or heaviness.

How much does a mini-lift cost?

Depending on case complexity, adjunct procedures, and surgeon expertise, the price can range between $3,000 to $8,000.