There are several different facelift approaches that Dr. Moradzadeh can take to treat different degrees of aging in the lower face. While a full facelift can improve more advanced sagging and skin laxity, not every patient needs this level of intervention. The mini facelift is often used for early changes in the lower face and jawline, and comes with the benefits of smaller incisions and shorter recovery times.
At AM Facial Plastics in Beverly Hills, we perform mini facelifts for patients with mild to moderate aging who want surgery without the long disruption to their routine. With this technique, you do not have to wait until facial aging becomes severe to consider surgical correction. We will review some of the pros and cons of this option and explain who may be a good candidate.
What Is a Mini Facelift?
A mini facelift is a less extensive facial surgery that is used for early signs of sagging around the cheeks, jawline and lower face. It involves a shorter incision to lift the underlying tissue and tighten the skin. A quick facelift like this can be done with local anesthesia with sedation and usually involves less swelling and downtime.
Where Are the Incisions for a Mini Facelift?
Incisions typically begin at the hairline near the temples and curve around the front of the ear, sometimes extending just behind it. This s-lift incision gives access to the underlying tissue while keeping the scar discreet. The incision length is shorter than in a traditional facelift, so it is sometimes called a short scar facelift. During the surgery, Dr. Moradzadeh lifts and tightens the skin and then closes the incision along natural creases to reduce its visibility. Once healed, the scar is hard to detect unless you are looking for it.
The Pros of a Mini Facelift
The Recovery Is Shorter
Since the mini facelift involves less tissue adjustment, healing is usually faster. Downtime is measured in days rather than weeks, which can be appealing to those with busy schedules. Swelling and bruising still occur but are often milder than what is expected after a full facelift. You can expect to return to work or light activities within one week, and exercise within two weeks.
Provides Natural-Looking Improvements for the Lower Face
The mini facelift improves sagging around the jawline and lower cheeks. It lifts and repositions the underlying tissues while keeping a natural amount of tension in the lower face. Results from this surgery are subtle, but still noticeable, with the goal of making you look refreshed and rested, but still like yourself.
The Next Step Up From Injectables or Non Invasive Treatments
When fillers and skin-tightening treatments stop delivering the results you want, a mini facelift can provide the next level of correction. You still benefit from structural changes without the same downtime or cost of a full facelift. It can bridge the gap between non-surgical treatments and full facial surgery for the right patient.
The Cons of a Mini Facelift
Results Are More Subtle
A mini facelift offers less dramatic changes compared to more comprehensive surgical techniques. It is best for mild sagging and soft-tissue descent, not for deeply set wrinkles or advanced volume loss. If you are expecting major correction, this approach may fall short of your expectations.
Results Don’t Last As Long
Because the correction is not as extensive, the longevity of results is shorter. Full facelifts can last 10-15 years, while results from a mini facelift are expected to last 5-7 years. You can extend your results through good skincare and non-surgical tightening treatments, and you can consider more comprehensive surgical correction once you begin to notice signs of aging again.
Does Not Address Significant Neck Laxity
Sagging skin and muscle bands in the neck are not fully treated with a mini facelift. The limited access during surgery makes it difficult to achieve major improvements in that area. If neck aging is a concern, we may recommend a separate neck lift.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for a Mini Facelift?
- Younger Patients: Age alone does not determine candidacy, but this option often works well for younger individuals in their 40s and 50s who are beginning to notice early facial sagging. Subtle changes along the jawline or lower cheeks may be present without deeper folds or a lot of excess skin.
- Patients With Good Skin Elasticity: If you have skin that still rebounds well, you may be a good candidate for this surgery. Good elasticity can support your results and give you smoother contours along the jawline.
- Individuals With Good Expectations: We make sure our patients have a good understanding of what a mini facelift can and cannot address. Good candidates are those who have done their homework and have reasonable expectations.
How Do the Results of a Mini Facelift Compare to Non-Surgical Treatments?
Non-surgical treatments like fillers, threads and energy-based tightening can improve the texture and appearance of the skin, but their results are more limited. A mini facelift gives you more structural support than any of these treatments can provide. However, if you also have surface-level concerns like hyperpigmentation or fine lines, we can combine a mini facelift with minimally invasive options that focus on the tone and texture of the skin.
Plan Your Mini Facelift With a Consultation in Beverly Hills, CA
A mini facelift can be good for patients who are not ready for a full facelift procedure but want some tightening. At AM Facial Plastics, Dr. Moradzadeh combines a deep knowledge of facial science with artistic vision. Alongside surgical options such as neck lifts and facelifts, he also provides innovations like AviClear. If you are in Beverly Hills or Santa Barbara, or you are visiting from out of state, we invite you to reach out by phone at 310‑659‑9900 or online to schedule a consultation.