Is a minilift that somewhat addresses the SMAS ever a worthwhile procedure?

Question

I noticed that many of the "good" surgeons in my area have veered away from Minilifts, saying they offer "mini results". I appreciate their integrity in not offering a product that delivers inferior results. But I'm confused about the why. It seems to me, and some drs do in fact say, that if you need less dramatic results, bc you're in your 40s let's say, then why not offer something that provides less dramatic results? Is it a longevity issue? Thanks!

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

You are correct, if someone has minimal jawline irregularity, slight laxity of their facial skin and minimal neck issues, a mini facelift can provide an excellent result.  Patient seeking a mini facelift typically are younger, their skin is more elastic, and the results of a mini facelift in these patients, can hold up for many years. However, a mini facelift would not be appropriate for someone older, who has more jowling, visible platysma muscle bands at rest and more laxity of the skin of their face. It is extremely important to tailor the procedure to the patients specific needs. A mini facelift performed on a younger person with minimal signs of facial aging would be an excellent choice and give excellent results. A mini facelift performed on a patient with advanced facial and neck aging would give inferior results, because the correct operation was not chosen to correct those issues.   Best wishes.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Surgeons and patients both differ on what they consider a mini facelift. My advice is to consult a reputable plastic surgeon to get their opinion on what if anything would be of benefit to you

William Portuese, MD · Answer

With a mini lift, the SMAS may or may not be minimally tightened with a stitch or two, but it really depends on the surgeon, since there are many different varieties of facial lifting techniques. Best to study your perspective surgeon's facelift photo gallery and make sure that it is extensive with natural results that you like

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

That’s the question that’s been troubling Plastic Surgeon since the early 90s when the original article was written in North America plastic surgery clinics. The mini versus midi versus full facelift concepts. In the hands of experience boarded plastic surgeons results from either of these three types of facets are very good. It depends on the candidate, and they’re exact needs and desires.so our minis here to stay yes they are but finding an experience Plastic Surgeon performing them could be difficult.  so our minis here to stay. Yes they are but finding an experience Plastic Surgeon performing them could be difficult. Keep looking we are around.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Choosing the right procedure should be based on first making quality assessment and having a clear understanding of what the underlying problem or ideology is.
Once that’s done, then a talented surgeon will prescribe the correct procedure.
It’s very important to recognize what a facelift treats, and what it doesn’t treat.
 a mini facelift tends to have all the drawbacks of having a facelift surgery but with less of the benefits.
I had a full facelift when I was in my 40s and have zero regrets.
I chose my provider very carefully.
In the end, the two variables that matter are the patients candidacy for the procedure and the selection of the provider.
Those are generally the most important variables.
Understanding if you’re really a candidate for a facelift in the first place and selecting the right provider is what determines quality outcomes from those that are less than optimal.
 Somebody who is an excellent candidate for facelift surgery has the potential to have excellent outcomes in the hands of the right provider.
They can also have poor outcomes if provider selection is not done well.
Somebody is not a great candidate does not have the potential for having a great outcome regardless of who does the procedure.
 In a nutshell, that is the gist of almost all cosmetic surgical operations.
The single most important variable that patients tend to fail to recognize is the importance of provider selection. In my opinion, that is best done by having multiple in person consultations.
Patients should accept that it is their responsibility to properly vet providers.
Patients should take an active role in the consultation process, recognizing you are hiring someone to perform a service.
Insist, unseen, sufficient numbers of before, and after pictures to get a clear understanding of what average results look like on patients who have similar characteristics to your own.
If providers can’t supply you with an impressive collection of before and after pictures, then move onto the next consultation.
And experience provider should have no difficulty showing you the before and after pictures of at least 50 previous cases.
Highly experienced surgeons will in fact have access to hundreds or preferably thousands of before and after pictures.
 When in doubt, slow down and schedule more consultations.
Understanding your candidacy for the procedure is not always easy or straightforward.
Not all plastic. Surgeons are good at making aesthetic assessments. A lot of facial aesthetics, including premature aging are related to bone structure and it’s very important to differentiate each tissue component and how it contributes to the problem and solution.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD.

Is a minilift that somewhat addresses the SMAS ever a worthwhile procedure?

Answers (5)

More Mini Facelift Questions

How long does a mini face lift last?

53 & re-entering the workforce, would mini-facelift or fillers help lines, neck, & general facial drooping?

42 y/o interested in a mini facelift to correct sagging and jowls - why am I not an ideal candidate?

What procedures can I do to fix the laxity and lack of firmness in my face? (Photos)

Would a mini facelift be appropriate for me as a 31 year old? (Photo)

I'm 31 and noticing my face is changing. Too early for lift? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS