Mini Facelift Vs. Full Facelift: Which is Best?

There are lots of names for different lifting procedures, but the most important common denominator in all good lifts is that the SMAS layer is addressed. The SMAS is a fibrous muscular layer under the skin where the surgeon finds the strength and support he or she needs to establish a natural and long-lasting result.
The word "mini" probably refers to a limited dissection and undermining of the skin, which of course is different in each individual, just as the incision length can be different for each individual (whether a "short scar" or a more extended scar is used), depending on the amount and laxity of the skin. What is necessary is a detailed examination of the skin and soft tissues of the face and neck, preferably by a surgeon who performs these procedures regularly and has many before and after photographs of different patients at different stages of aging.

In our practice, we perform a non-surgical face lift / skin resurfacing treatment using Renuvion Helium Plasma Radiofrequency. ​To get the most improvement with skin tightening, we combine Renuvion (formerly J-Plasma) with lasers (Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, CO2), microneedling/PRP, Ultherapy and InMode FaceTite. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer​​​​

The choice between mini or full facelift depends less on what area of the face you want to address, and more on the terminology of the surgeon. Unfortunately for patients, it can be very confusing, since one surgeon’s mini-lift is another surgeon’s facelift. Rather than focus on the word “mini” or “full” or “partial” in regard to facelifting, it’s better to look at what anatomical configuration you have, and the best way to improve it. Even with my full-facelift patients, the incisions are hidden along the tragus of the ear and behind the ear, so it’s not the incisions to focus on, but what can be done to improve your areas of concern. If you have sagging skin and jowls, I would suggest that you research the best plastic surgeons in your area and meet with a few. Look at the before and after photos. Ask how the wounds are closed (I always use very thin suture material, which makes for the finest incisions possible, but some surgeons use staples which are less desirable). Are you comfortable with the surgeon? Is his or her staff responsive? Are the anesthesiologists board certified, or does the surgeon use a lesser-trained nurse anesthetist? These are the important questions to consider. I also encourage you to create a long list of questions to take with you to your consultation so that you will have a thorough understanding of the process. In my practice, my consultations are not timed, because I find it fitting to spend as much time as needed, since the decision of surgery warrants careful consideration.