Table of Contents
A mini facelift is a less invasive alternative to traditional facelift surgery that can address mild to moderate signs of ageing in the lower face and jawline. This procedure is ideal for patients who want to eliminate jowls and mild sagging skin in the lower third of their face without undergoing a more extensive procedure.
RELATED: Mini Facelift Before & After Photos
At Centre for Surgery, we pride ourselves on being one of the leading plastic surgery clinics in the UK for facial rejuvenation surgery and minimally invasive facelift surgery. Our team of experienced and highly skilled surgeons specialises in providing tailored facelift procedures that can help patients achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated look.
What is a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that targets early signs of ageing in the lower third of the face and neck. This procedure is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate sagging skin and loose tissue in the lower area of the face and along the jawline.
Several factors contribute to the appearance of saggy skin, loose tissue, and other signs of ageing in the face, including natural ageing, gravity, genetics, sun damage, and smoking. These factors can lead to a loss of collagen and a downward pull of facial tissues, resulting in a more squared-off appearance of the face.
During a mini facelift procedure, the surgeon lifts the skin in the lower face upwards and removes excess loose skin. This procedure can address concerns such as jowls, sagging tissue along the jawline, and loose skin in the lower one-third of the face. It can also recontour the jawline and create a fuller cheek appearance, although additional procedures such as fat transfer or fillers may be required to achieve these results.
By resolving these cosmetic concerns, a mini facelift can help restore a more youthful, refreshed, and rejuvenated appearance to the face. Patients can expect to see natural-looking results that can last for several years, with a quicker recovery time compared to traditional facelift surgery.
Our team of experienced and highly skilled surgeons specialises in providing tailored mini facelift procedures that can help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. If you’re interested in a mini facelift procedure, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you determine if this procedure is right for you.
RELATED: Facelift Surgery FAQs – Q&A about Rhytidectomy
What Are the Benefits Of a Mini Facelift?
A mini facelift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that offers several benefits for patients looking to address early signs of ageing in the lower third of their face and neck. Here are some of the benefits of a mini facelift:
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: Unlike traditional facelift surgery, a mini facelift is a minimally invasive procedure that involves smaller incisions and less scarring. This means less downtime and a quicker recovery period for patients.
- Addresses Early Signs of Ageing: A mini facelift is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate signs of ageing in the lower face and jawline. This procedure can help tighten loose skin, eliminate jowls, and recontour the jawline, restoring a more youthful appearance to the face.
- Natural-Looking Results: The results of a mini facelift are natural-looking and can last for several years. The procedure lifts and tightens the skin and underlying tissues, providing a more refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.
- Tailored to the Patient’s Needs: Each mini facelift procedure is tailored to the patient’s individual needs and goals. The surgeon will work closely with the patient to understand their concerns and create a customised treatment plan to achieve the desired results.
- Low Risk: A mini facelift has a lower risk of complications compared to traditional facelift surgery. This is due to the smaller incisions and less invasive nature of the procedure.
- Improved Self-Confidence: Many patients who undergo a mini facelift experience a boost in their self-confidence and self-esteem. By addressing visible signs of ageing, patients can feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance.
What’s the Difference Between a Mini Facelift and Other Types of Facelifts?
A facelift is a cosmetic procedure designed to reverse the signs of ageing in the face by lifting sagging skin and tightening underlying tissues. While all facelifts aim to achieve this, the difference between types of facelifts lies in the amount of sagging and loose skin they address and the specific areas of the face they target.
Here is a comparison between a mini facelift and other types of facelifts:
Mini Facelift vs SMAS Facelift: The SMAS facelift can lift deep and soft tissue in the face and neck, but this results in longer scars that extend behind the ear and a longer recovery time, whereas a mini facelift involves shorter scars and a quicker recovery period.
Mini Facelift vs Deep Plane Facelift: A deep plane facelift is a more comprehensive and invasive procedure that can lift the face vertically and restore lost volume, making it more suitable for patients with advanced signs of ageing than a mini facelift.
Mini Facelift vs Skin-Only Facelift: A skin-only facelift is a procedure that only removes loose skin from the lower face, whereas a mini facelift not only removes loose skin but also lifts sagging soft tissue, eliminating jowls and other changes beyond just loose skin.
Mini Facelift vs MACS Facelift: The Minimal Access Cranial Suspension (MACS) facelift involves lifting the face with three main stitches, but it can only achieve some improvements in the neck area and is less effective than a mini facelift.
Mini Facelift vs Ponytail Facelift: A ponytail facelift involves incisions made through the hairline to remove loose skin, but it focuses on lifting the mid-face instead of the lower face as a mini facelift does.
Am I suitable for a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that can address early signs of ageing in the lower third of the face and neck. While it’s not restricted to a specific age or gender, certain factors can make someone an ideal candidate for the procedure. Here are some factors that can help determine if someone is a good candidate for a mini facelift:
- Minimal Sagging and Loose Skin: A mini facelift is best suited for patients with mild to moderate signs of ageing in the lower face and jawline. If a patient has significant sagging and loose skin, a more comprehensive facelift may be necessary.
- Good Health: Candidates for a mini facelift should be in good health, with no untreated medical conditions that could complicate the procedure or anaesthesia.
- Non-Smoker: Smoking can negatively impact the healing process, so candidates for a mini facelift should either be non-smokers or have stopped smoking for at least four weeks before the procedure.
- Realistic Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations of the results they can achieve with a mini facelift. The procedure can create a more refreshed, youthful appearance, but it cannot stop the natural ageing process altogether.
- Consultation with a Qualified Plastic Surgeon: A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery is essential to determine if a mini facelift is a right procedure for a patient. The surgeon will examine the patient’s facial structure, skin quality, and other factors to determine if a mini facelift can help them achieve their desired results.
RELATED: Am I suitable for a mini facelift?
How to prepare for a mini facelift
Preparing for a mini facelift is an essential step towards ensuring a smooth procedure and successful recovery. Here are some steps you can take to prepare yourself for a mini facelift:
- Consult with a specialist Plastic Surgeon: It’s essential to have a thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon before your mini facelift procedure. During this consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your overall health, medical history, and medication use to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.
- Avoid Blood Thinners: Blood-thinning medications like aspirin and ibuprofen can increase your risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Your surgeon may advise you to stop taking these medications before your procedure.
- Stop Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact your healing process, so it’s essential to quit smoking at least four weeks before your mini facelift procedure.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water in the weeks leading up to your procedure can help flush toxins out of your body, keep your skin hydrated, and speed up your recovery after the operation.
- Use Sunscreen: Sun damage can exacerbate skin ageing, so applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on your face every day before your procedure can help prevent further skin damage.
- Arrange for Post-Operative Care: After your mini facelift procedure, you’ll need someone to drive you home and help care for you for the first few days. It’s important to arrange for post-operative care before your procedure.
How is a mini facelift performed?
A mini facelift is a surgical procedure that can reverse early signs of ageing in the lower face and neck. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how a mini facelift is performed:
- Anaesthesia: Your surgeon will administer general anaesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
- Incisions: Your surgeon will create small incisions in front of each ear that are well hidden in the natural curves of the ear.
- Separation of Skin and Tissue: Your surgeon will then separate the skin and soft tissue layers from the deeper muscle layer.
- Soft Tissue Lifting: Using delicate and precise techniques, your surgeon will lift the soft tissue of your face gently. They will pull the skin and soft tissue up towards the ear to smoothen the jawline and tighten the skin. They will also remove any excess loose skin.
- Closure: Finally, your surgeon will close the incisions in multiple layers using delicate stitches to minimise scarring after your procedure.
Recovery after mini facelift surgery
After a mini facelift, recovery time typically lasts between 1-3 weeks. During the first few days following your procedure, you can expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the face. To ensure a smooth recovery, we recommend planning to take some time off from work and other responsibilities before undergoing the procedure.
During the first week, it’s important to allow your body to focus most of its energy on healing. Rest and avoid any strenuous activities or exercises that could increase your blood pressure or swelling in your face. It’s best to avoid exercise for at least three weeks post-surgery to speed up your recovery.
Risks and potential complications of mini facelift surgery
While a mini facelift is generally a safe and low-risk procedure, it’s essential to be aware of the potential complications. These include wound infections, haematoma (blood build-up under the skin), seroma (fluid build-up under the skin), and skin necrosis (the skin along the incision line becomes darker in colour or black and can result in additional scarring). However, these risks are minimal when performed by an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon.
At Centre for Surgery, our surgeons have years of experience performing mini facelifts, and they take all necessary precautions to minimise the risk of complications. During your consultation, they’ll discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure, provide you with post-operative care instructions, and answer any questions you may have.
Can a mini facelift be combined with other procedures?
A mini facelift can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to provide patients with a more comprehensive and holistic approach to facial rejuvenation. The combination of procedures can be customised based on the individual’s goals and specific concerns. The following are some of the complementary procedures that can be combined with a mini facelift:
Facial fat transfer or cheek augmentation: Adding volume to the face can help enhance the results of a mini facelift. The surgeon can use the patient’s own fat or dermal fillers to add volume to areas such as the cheeks, temples, and lips.
Brow lift or forehead lift: Combining a mini facelift with a brow lift or forehead lift can help lift sagging eyebrows and smooth out forehead wrinkles.
Upper or lower blepharoplasty: Eyelid surgery can address sagging upper eyelids and puffy under-eye bags, which can contribute to an aged or tired appearance.
Combining procedures can also help minimise downtime and recovery time. By having multiple procedures done at once, patients can save time and minimise their overall recovery period. However, combining procedures also carries additional risks, and it’s essential to discuss the benefits and risks of combining procedures with your surgeon during the consultation phase.
How Much Does a Mini Facelift Cost in London?
The cost of a mini facelift procedure in London may vary depending on several factors, including the extent of correction required, the type of anaesthetic used, and any additional procedures combined with the mini facelift. The cost typically includes the surgeon’s fees, anaesthesia fees, facility fees, and postoperative care.
RELATED: How much does a facelift cost?
To get an accurate quote for your mini facelift procedure, you will need to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons at Centre for Surgery. During the consultation, the surgeon will examine you and discuss your desired results, the complexity of the procedure, and any additional treatments you may need to achieve the best outcome.
Our patient coordinators will provide you with a detailed price estimate for your mini facelift procedure, including any other expenses, such as pre-operative tests or medications. Contact Centre for Surgery today to schedule a consultation and get an estimate for your mini facelift cost.
Is a mini facelift worth it?
A mini facelift can be worth it for patients with mild signs of ageing in the lower third of their face. The procedure has a high satisfaction rate, with 92% of patients rating it as “Worth It” on RealSelf. However, it’s important to note that a mini facelift is not suitable for everyone. Patients with more advanced signs of ageing might not benefit much from the procedure, so it’s essential to consult with a specialised plastic surgeon who can advise on the best procedure for your individual case.
To ensure the best results, it’s important to research and choose a reputable plastic surgeon with proper training, accreditation, and years of experience in mini facelift surgery. Check their patient reviews and the facility where they operate to make sure it follows appropriate health and safety standards. Additionally, it’s crucial to communicate your cosmetic concerns and goals clearly with your surgeon to ensure that they tailor the procedure to your individual needs.
With proper research and an experienced surgeon, a mini facelift can be a worthwhile investment for achieving a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance.
Mini Facelift FAQs
What’s the difference between a mini facelift and a traditional facelift?
A mini facelift targets the lower third of the face, while a traditional facelift addresses the entire face, including the neck and upper face.
Can a mini facelift be done without general anaesthesia?
A mini facelift can be performed using local anaesthesia, but general anaesthesia is often used to ensure the patient’s comfort.
How long does a mini facelift procedure take?
A mini facelift typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete.
Will I have visible scars after a mini facelift?
The incisions made during a mini facelift are small and well-hidden, resulting in minimal scarring.
How long will it take to see the results of a mini facelift?
The results of a mini facelift are visible immediately, but some swelling and bruising may take a few weeks to subside.
How long do the results of a mini facelift last?
The results of a mini facelift can last up to 5-10 years, depending on factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and skin quality.
RELATED: Are facelift results permanent?
What are the potential risks and complications of a mini facelift?
Complications are rare with a mini facelift, but they can include wound infection, haematoma, seroma, skin necrosis, and other risks associated with surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these potential complications with you before the procedure.
Can I combine a mini facelift with other procedures?
Yes, a mini facelift can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
What’s the cost of a mini facelift?
The cost of a mini facelift varies depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, complementary cosmetic procedures combined with the mini facelift, the type of anaesthesia used, and how much aftercare is needed. Please consult with your surgeon for a price estimate.
Why choose Centre for Surgery for mini facelift surgery?
There are several reasons why you should choose Centre for Surgery for your mini facelift surgery:
- Experienced and specialised plastic surgeons: Our plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing facelift procedures, including mini facelifts. They are highly skilled and use the latest techniques to ensure that you achieve the best possible results.
- Personalised care: At Centre for Surgery, we believe in providing personalised care to our patients. Our plastic surgeons work with you to understand your goals and tailor your mini facelift surgery to meet your individual needs.
- State-of-the-art facilities: We have state-of-the-art facilities at 95-97 Baker Street equipped with the latest technology and equipment to ensure that you receive the highest quality of care.
- Comprehensive aftercare: We offer comprehensive aftercare to ensure that you have a smooth and comfortable recovery after your mini facelift surgery. We will be with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to your full recovery.
- Patient satisfaction: Our patients are highly satisfied with the results of their mini facelift surgery, as evidenced by our RealSelf “Worth It” rating and positive reviews.
