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

As others have pointed out on this topic, most qualified Facelift surgeons offer a range of Facelift procedures based on the individual needs of the patient. Likewise, most surgeons will offer some variation on the technique when compared to another surgeon. The truth is, you can get great results with a variety of different techniques. Most surgeons will offer you a procedure that suits your needs and which works well in his/her hands.
That having been said, in most circumstances a "skin only" mini lift is hardly a procedure worth doing. This is a procedure that was largely abandoned with the introduction of SMAS techniques in the 1970's. The reason: when tension is placed on an incision, the scar is more likely to be wide, more likely to distort local structures (earlobes), and less likely to leave a natural appearance. When tension is placed on deeper structures (SMAS), you are more likely to avoid these problems.
In my experience, most patients come in believing they are candidates for as mini lift. Frequently, this is not the case. My responsibility is to educate a patient that they will only be happy with a procedure which is appropriate for their individual aging changes; often times a mini lift is insufficient.

The difference between a mini facelift and a modified
facelift may be enormous — or there may not be one at all. That's because the
terms "mini" and "modified" are unregulated, which means
that there is no universal approach to these procedures. Each surgeon has his
or her own preferred technique for mini facelifts, and one surgeon's mini may
be another surgeon's modified. To be certain of the effectiveness of your
procedure, ask your surgeon to review his or her technique with you. That way
you can be sure that your procedure precisely matches your aesthetic goals.
Good luck!

Thank you for your question. A mini lift tends to refer to minimally invasive facelift techniques and often skin tightening only.  These techniques are best suited to patients with mild aging changes. Moderate to severe aging changes would more likely benefit from a more traditional facelift. I would recommend consultation with a facial plastic surgeon to discuss what option is best for you."This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."