Facelift VS Mini Facelift
Many patients are certain they wish to undergo a surgical procedure to rewind the clock on aging and restore a vibrant, attractive countenance and heightened self-confidence. However, they may be unsure which aesthetic procedure to choose. Both a conventional facelift and a mini facelift can leave you looking more refreshed and rejuvenated, but which one is right for your unique goals?
In this insightful, comprehensive blog, Dr. Kyle Song at South Coast Plastic Surgery in Irvine and Ladera Ranch explores the key differences between these two outstanding facial rejuvenation options, investigating their objectives, recovery times, risks, costs, and duration.
How Does a Full Facelift Differ From a Mini Facelift?
Traditional facelift surgery focuses on enhancing youthfulness by correcting skin laxity, jowls, sunken cheeks, nasolabial folds, and loss of jawline definition. A mini facelift is effective for tackling minor skin sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck as well; however, it is performed with a shorter incision, is less extensive in its scope, and comes with less recovery time. Both procedures can be highly customized to meet each patient’s unique aesthetic goals.
Comparison Chart At a Glance
| FULL FACELIFT | MINI FACELIFT | |
| Also called: | Rhytidectomy, Traditional Facelift, SMAS Facelift | Mini Lift, Weekend Lift, Short Scar Facelift |
| Level of invasiveness: | Significant | Mild to moderate |
| Anesthesia options: | General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation | Local anesthesia with or without sedation |
| Total surgery time: | 3-4 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Concerns addressed: | Significant signs of aging | Early, mild signs of aging |
| Longevity of results: | 10-20 years | 7-10 years |
| Recovery time: | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 weeks |
| Costs: | $7,000-$1,5000 |
$3,500-$7,000 |
Criteria For Comparing Facial Procedures
When exploring whether a full or mini facelift is best, patients will need to consider multiple factors, such as the time available for recovery, costs, and the degree of skin laxity present. Of course, the best way to determine your candidacy for any procedure is to undergo a detailed consultation process and physical evaluation with your plastic surgeon. In the meantime, here are some key differentiators:
- Recovery time – Many patients choose a mini facelift knowing they can be back in action sooner rather than later. Busy, active patients enjoy the fact that a mini facelift only requires a week or two of downtime. However, patients suffering from more pronounced skin laxity may accept a longer recovery period as a trade-off for achieving more profound skin-tightening results.
- Longevity of results – Results after a mini facelift can last an impressive 7-10 years, while changes with a full facelift can extend from one or two decades. However, both procedures require that you take proper care of your skin by avoiding harmful UV rays and following a healthy lifestyle.
- Incision/Scarring – Since a full facelift must address more dramatic signs of aging and facial sagging, the procedure typically requires longer incisions placed within the folds of the ear and stretching into the hairline. The incisions with a mini facelift are shorter, leading to less conspicuous scarring. For some patients, this is a critical factor in their decision-making process.
- Cost – For some patients, investing in a more affordable mini facelift is the manageable choice. A mini facelift allows for more dramatic anti-aging results than dermal fillers or energy-based treatments can provide but doesn’t carry the high price tag associated with a full facelift.
- Effectiveness – At a certain point, a patient’s skin sagging and other signs of aging may be too significant to be relieved through a mini facelift. The patient may desire a shorter, more affordable treatment option with less scarring and downtime, but their skin condition dictates the need for a more invasive procedure. A plastic surgeon with integrity will be transparent and let the patient know that a mini facelift will be an insufficient solution for pronounced skin sagging.
Conclusion
Your surgeon is your best resource when it comes to choosing the ideal facial rejuvenation procedure, as they have likely performed thousands of successful facelifts and mini facelifts. Factors affecting the type of facelift you undergo include your degree of skin laxity and other signs of aging, your budget, and your willingness to take time off for recovery. It is important to remember that with both options, your skin will continue to age, and eventually, you may need a revision. In the meantime, both a full facelift and a mini facelift can provide enhanced confidence and peace of mind as long as you choose a reputable, credentialed provider with a track record for excellence.
Want to Learn More About Facial Rejuvenation in Irvine and Ladera Ranch? Contact South Coast Plastic Surgery Today!
If you have questions about a full facelift vs. a mini facelift, contact us today to set up a private consultation with our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and aesthetic professionals. We will address your concerns in detail and curate a personalized treatment plan that gets to the heart of your cosmetic issues and delivers a profound transformation.
