Maurice M. Khosh, MD

There are many names for facelift operations that are less aggressive or  less dramatic than the standard SMAS lift or the deep plane lift. Terminology such as mini lift or modified lift is non scientific and can be misleading. The only way to know what the procedure involves, is to ask the person performing it.

In general, when only the skin is pulled, the results are short lasting. When the underlying muscle or fascia layer is tightened, facelift results are longer lasting. The extent of the incisions can vary as well. Short scar facelifts extend from the front of ear and around the ear lobe. More standard facelift incisions extend behind the ear and into the hairline. Short scar facelifts work well for patients who have jowl formation without significant neck laxity.

Discuss these facts with your surgeon and review some of their results before scheduling surgery.