Mini-Facelift for Sagging Skin at 26?

I have, from too much sun, stress, social smoking and drinking, what I believe is prematurely aged skin at 26.

But I also have relatively full cheeks, so I don't know if part of the sagging of my lower face that I see is just attributable to the puffiness of cheeks.

Would it be reasonable to get a mini-facelift at this stage in my life?

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8 Doctor Answers | Asked by anon

Doctor Answers (8)
Community Comments (0)

Too much sun and fun

If you haven't taken good care of yourself, now is the time to start? You should not pursue surgery at this time but could certainly see a board certified dermatologist for recommendations on skin care, sun screen and whether you would be a candidate for a facial peel.

26 and mini facelift

I would not pursue a surgical procedure at this time based on the photo submitted. Strongly consider a chemical peel, laser resurfacing, and lifestyle habit changes for improvement of skin tone and textural issues. You will be surprised as to how far this would take you along your road to improvement and rejuvenation...be conservative now and you will have plenty of options available left to you in the future. Dr. Shep

Probably not

My youngest was in her 30's and was very happy. You photo does not look so bad. Usually I recommend fillers until you are ready, maybe in 10 years. Good luck, Nasim Huq

Mini lift for the younger patient

Your photograph is a bit dark to evaluate your exact situation. I would state as a general rule I do not think age 26 is time to start facelift type procedures. In my younger facial surgery patients I typically do an endoscopic browlift with mid face suspension through small incisions in the forehead. This allows the entire facial unit of skin, muscle and soft tissue to be lifted to it's original position. The results give a natural look as no skin is removed it is just repositioned allowing... more

Michael Elam, MD

83 reviews

Orange County Facial Plastic Surgeon

michaelelammd.com

26 and mini facelift

I am sorry that it is difficult to see your photo well. But at 26 I doubt very much that you are a candidate for a mini-lift.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Mini lift is not for sun and cigarette damage

Prematurely aged skin that is a result from sun damage and smoking is not usually treated by surgery so you are not likely candidate for a mini lift. Mini lifts don't really undo the damage from sun, stress and smoking. This damages inside the skin itself. You probably need some sort of fractionated laser resurfacing to improve your skin tone and texture. Also, giving up the smoking will very quickly help to start undoing the damage as your skin starts to receive more nutrients and... more

Mini-facelift at age 26

Anything is possible but that doesn't mean that it should be done on you. You need to change some of your habits and you may be able to improve your skin and the youthful appearance with a variety of nonsurgical techniques ranging from microdermabrasions, to light chemical peels, to laser peels, to laser treatments (such as Fraxel re:Store). You definitely need to see a medical esthetician to get on a program of skin care so your damage does not progress. You will need this program along... more

Mini face lift for younger patient

Annelisa,I wouldn't recommend any form of face lift surgery at your stage of life. The most minimal form of face lift doesn't really begin until late 30's or early 40's. First, I would consider a healthier lifestyle. A much better approach for facial rejuvenation for you would be basic skin care and consider using Retina. Use a good sun screen and avoid the sun. Keep yourself well-hydrated. Get plenty of sleep. Stop smoking and don't drink excessively. After you've done the basics, then... more