Sometimes we see wrinkling, sagging, and jowling in our lower face and neck long before we’re ready for a full facelift.
If you find yourself in this “in-between” place, a mini facelift may be right for you. Sometimes called a short-scar facelift or an S-lift, a mini facelift at our St. Louis, MO, plastic surgery practice targets skin laxity in the lower face and neck for a subtle, youthful enhancement with a smaller incision and quick recovery.
Request A ConsultationWho Is a GoodMini Facelift Candidate?
Mini facelift candidates show signs of aging around the neck and jawline but don’t require corrections in or around the cheeks and mouth. Candidates should be in general good health and non-smokers. Most mini facelift candidates are in their 40s, but there is no “right” age for this procedure.
One of our board-certified plastic surgeons will evaluate your individual case and determine whether you are a good candidate for a mini facelift or another procedure.
Types of Facelifts
St. Louis Cosmetic Surgery offers 3 specialized facelift options to meet your needs, whether you seek comprehensive rejuvenation or a subtle lift. Your surgeon will assess your skin’s quality, elasticity, and thickness to determine the most suitable facelift technique for your needs.
Mini Facelift
Also called a “Next Day Lift” or “Weekend Lift,” this procedure addresses the lower portion of the face alone. We perform the mini facelift under local anesthesia and keep the incisions as discreet as possible. The result is a subtly refreshed look.
Facelift
The full facelift addresses the lower two-thirds of the face—the region below the lower eyelids down to the neck. The incisions start in front of the hairline at the temples and extend below the ears before rising and blending into the hairline at the lower scalp.
Deep Plane Facelift
Typically reserved for severe skin laxity and facial aging, this technique releases the ligaments of the face to allow full mobilization of the deeper layers of tissue and muscle in the face. By lifting these layers to a more youthful position rather than tightening the skin alone, the result is natural rather than tight or “windswept.”
Mini Facelift Benefits
Our mini facelift patients love this procedure because it:
- Creates more youthful contours in the jawline and neck
- Offers a subtle, natural-looking enhancement
- Has a faster, easier recovery compared to more involved facelift surgeries
- Has the convenience of being performed in-office under local anesthesia
What Is Mini Facelift Recovery Like?
Patients experience some bruising and swelling following their procedure, though considerably less than if they had undergone a full or deep plane facelift. Any discomfort is typically managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
While the recovery period is usually shorter and easier than other facelift procedures, most patients still take a week off work to allow bruising to subside.
We will provide you with detailed postoperative instructions and advise you on when you can resume most activities without restrictions.
Mini Facelift FAQs
Are the results of a mini facelift permanent?
While a mini facelift can provide long-lasting results, it cannot stop the natural aging process. You will still look younger than if you had never done the procedure, but sagging and wrinkles will still develop over time. If you would like to address these concerns, a full facelift or revision procedure may help you achieve a more rejuvenated look.
Can I combine a mini facelift with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes. Many patients choose to combine their mini facelift with another surgical procedure, such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or a nonsurgical treatment such as BOTOX® Cosmetic or dermal fillers for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Trust Our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons for Your Mini Facelift
Our board-certified plastic surgeons have the skill and expertise to help you achieve the youthful look you desire. If you are ready to explore your facial rejuvenation options, please request a consultation online or call us at (636) 530-6161 to get started.
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