What is the Difference Between a Mini Facelift and a Modified Facelift?

Unfortunately, the terminology used
to describe facelifts hasn’t been standardized and means different things to
different people.  In many cases
the terms have been chosen for marketing purposes and for this reason aren’t
helpful.

Without knowing the individual
surgeons definition of these terms, it’s hard to know what differences exist between
them.  For this reason, it’s
important to focus on finding a qualified surgeon rather than focusing on a
specific operative procedure.

The treatment of facial aging
should be individualized based on the patient’s aesthetic goals, anatomic
findings and social situation.  No
two patients are exactly alike and because of this appropriate treatment
depends on the patients specific anatomic needs.

Although, the type of procedure
chosen is important, the selection of a plastic surgeon is even more important.  It’s important that you consult a board
certified plastic surgeon with experience performing facial rejuvenation
surgery.  This surgeon should be
able to formulate a treatment plan that’s specific for your anatomic findings
and meets your aesthetic goals.

A common question is what is the difference between one lift and another.  The most important factor in choosing a lift is to choose the right surgeon.  He/she will help determine what procedure they view as the best option for you and your aesthetic goals.

Lifts can differ dramatically from one surgeon to another.  Differences in lifts can be the incision length and size (not shorter incision does not equate to better scar) and what is actually being lifted.  Anatomically correct facelifts require more anatomic knowledge.

Generally, a mini facelift usually is associated with skin tightening only and a minimal amount of time of surgery. A modified facelift takes longer in time, addressing the skin, fat and muscles of the face.
The expertise of the plastic surgeon determines which type of surgery suits your individual needs. The soft tissue laxity, skin damage and loss of facial volume is most important in choosing facial rejuvenation surgery.
Be careful of named facelift procedures. Ask more specifics about what areas of the face will improve with each type of surgery.
And finally, the length of recovery is different for a mini and modified facelift. Your lifestyle is most important in how long the results will last, not the name of the procedure.