Mini Facelift Vs. Full Facelift: Which is Best?

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.

Hi, this is a great question! Unfortunately, there is a lot of variation in facelift terminology. This is very confusing for patients. It is also confusing for surgeons, as we are not entirely consistent as a specialty in when we refer to facelift procedures. The facelift procedure is the definitive procedure in facial rejuvenation. It usually involves some degree of elevation of the skin in front of and behind the ear and some form of tightening of the underlying support layer, the SMAS. There are also more limited incision facelifts of various types, commonly referred to as “mini-lifts”. Theoretically, these procedures may require less recovery as less tissue is manipulated. The downside is that they can leave your face looking “unfinished”. If you require a neck lift, you also have aging changes in your mid-face that may benefit from surgery to achieve balance. I any case, I don’t think that the recovery is necessarily significantly better than with a full face. It is possible to be out and about in public in a week or so after a facelift. I would consult with an experienced facelift surgeon to go over the options.

This is a very common question we get asked, and the answer is it depends on each individual situation.  Usually a mini-lift is most effective in a younger patient with mild jowling and minimal neck laxity.  On the other hand, if there is substantial neck laxity and more significant jowling, a full facelift may be the best choice.  As always, the best way to get answers to this type of question is to schedule an in-person consultation.  Best wishes.