Mini Facelift Technique: Perfect for Subtle Aesthetic Enhancements
At the practice of Dr. Patricia Berbari, we pride ourselves on providing outstanding cosmetic care to the Gatineauarea. Many patients have questions about facelift surgery, a popular method of reducing wrinkles and facial sagging. Sometimes a traditional facelift is not necessary, which is where the mini facelift comes into play.
About Mini Facelift Surgery
The mini facelift surgery is a facial plastic surgery procedure designed to reduce minor wrinkling and sagging in the middle region of the face and the jowls. It is less invasive than the traditional facelift surgery, which means subtler revisions as well as a shorter recovery time.
How the Mini Facelift Differs from the Traditional Facelift
The primary difference between the mini facelift and the traditional facelift is that the mini facelift uses a less extensive incision.
During a traditional facelift, the incision tends to span from behind the ear to the front of the ear along part of the lower hairline. In a mini facelift, the incision is made in front of the ear rather than extending behind. It is through this incision that all revisions to the facial contours are made.
Ideal Candidates for Mini Facelift Surgery
The best candidates for mini facelift surgery are patients in their 40s and 50s who are experiencing mild wrinkles and issues with the jowls. Even mild jowl problems can have a major impact on the appearance, and the mini facelift is well-equipped to handle these kinds of problems.
Mini facelift candidates should be in good overall health and not suffer from any sorts of medical conditions that would make surgery (even a minimally invasive one like the mini facelift) a risky endeavor. Patients should also have realistic expectations about the nature of mini facelift surgery and the recovery process. Realistic expectations means better patient satisfaction overall.
The Mini Facelift Procedure
The mini facelift is performed under general anesthetic in order to reduce patient distress and discomfort.
During the mini facelift, a small incision is made in front of the ear around the lower part of the hairline. Through this incision, the underlying structures of the face are adjusted and excess fat and tissue is removed. The remaining skin is pulled tighter in order to reduce wrinkling and sagging of the face and jowls.
Recovery after Mini Facelift Surgery
Since the mini facelift is less invasive, patients generally experience less swelling, discomfort, and bruising as they would after a traditional facelift. Even still, the recovery process should not be taken for granted. Patients should get ample rest and follow their post-operative instructions to the letter. Strenuous physical activity and the use of steam rooms and saunas will be restricted for some time.
While it can take a few weeks for patients to return to all of their normal activities, patients should be back to work after about a week. Follow-up visits with the surgeon are scheduled in order to monitor the healing and recovery process.
Learn More About Facial Plastic Surgery Options
For more information about mini facelift surgery and your other options for advanced anti-aging and wrinkle reduction, be sure to contact our cosmetic skin care and plastic surgery center today. The team here at Dr. Berbari’s office looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you reverse the signs of aging.