Will a mini face lift last as long as a regular facelift?

Question

I am considering a mini facelift, but am concerned that it means going back for another facelift in the near future thereafter. Would it be better to do a full facelift?

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

As long as the mini facelift is done with a SMAS flap or smasectomy technique, it should prove just as effective as a normal facelift.  In this case there is little difference between a mini and a full facelift, only the fact that the neck is addressed with a separate incision under the chin with a full facelift.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

FaceTite can internally tighten the skin in the lower face and neck. After all the skin has been heated and contracted, we shape the neck with liposuction to give definition and remove stubborn pockets of fat. In one quick treatment, we can tighten skin, remove fat, and contour the lower face, jawline, and jowls with only a weekend of downtime.​  Keep in mind that combination approaches will give you a more significant improvement as opposed to a single procedure. I recommend getting a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

On average the surgical #results last between 4 and 7 years. However, people vary so much from one another, an exact time is difficult to provide. If you wish, you may repeat the procedure at that time. There is always an improvement compared to not having the procedure as the #aging process continues to progress throughout the future. Patients, with very loose skin will occasionally experience #sagging earlier and it may be seen as soon as one  year later. Such may require a secondary procedure to tighten the loose skin.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

First, the term “mini lift” is nonspecific and can mean something different to each board-certified facial plastic surgeon. In my practice, a mini lift refers to minimally invasive surgery that lifts the lower face and neck. A mini facelift can be a terrific, less invasive option for someone who is just beginning to lose skin tone and wants to give herself or himself a “boost.” During the evaluation, I look at the patient's anatomy and devise the least aggressive and least invasive methods of tightening their neck and lower face to minimize both downtime and scarring. How long a mini lift will last depends on a number of factors, but results will usually last for several years. A traditional facelift will last significantly longer than that.

I hope this helps

I hope this helps

Raymond E. Lee, MD · Answer

Yes a  full lower facelift will have greater and longer lasting results than a mini lift. Discuss with your surgeon the pros and cons for each and what would suit you best based on results, recover, risk, and costs.

Richard G. Schwartz, MD · Answer

Generally a mini lift refers to a more limited dissection and lifting of the facial skin and soft tissue.  If some of the deeper tissue can be effectively lifted within this smaller area, then the results can be nice and can last several years.  However, I believe that by operating over a wider area in a regular lift, the various lifting techniques applied to the deeper tissue and skin can create a stronger and more secure, and longer lasting lift, as well as a more comprehensive, harmonious improvement of the face.  That said, if you only have minimal, early aging changes limited just to the cheeks, than a mini cheek lift might suffice.  It really depends on the extent of your aging changes and just what you are looking for.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

The answer depends on the Surgeon, the technique used, and the aging indications of the patient.  Although everybody would prefer a "mini" lift, it is not always the appropriate procedure.  Sometimes, this terminology is used as an alluring marketing term to play upon patients' concerns.  When a patient has platysmal bands, skin laxity in the neck, jowls, etc., a facelift is clearly the right choice. Modifications can be made to the "lift" technique depending on the severity of the circumstances.  When the aging changes reach a  specific point, a mini lift often provides mini results.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your great question. Both operations tend to deliver a nice improvement, and the results tend to last a number of years. However, gravity, time, and our environment still take their tolls on our skin. It may be that either operation would need a "touch up" in 10 years or so (perhaps a few years earlier with the mini-facelift). But, I've met many people who had a facelifting procedure done over 20 years prior who still have a nice result. I would decide which procedure fits you the best right now, and consider the pros/cons of each. Our mini-facelift patients are among our most satisfied. Best wishes.

Lee A. Gibstein, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I think the most important consideration here is which procedure is appropriate for you now. If your neck is doing well than a Mini Facelift with SMAS work should be appropriate and as long lasting of a correction as a full facelift. The difference being a traditional facelift will address your neck as well. I think patients are often too concerned with the name of the procedure and during your consultation you need to discuss your concerns and goals and how best to achieve them. The name of the procedure is merely semantics and the recovery not that different. Therefore I would recommend consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and what technique would be best for you. This will guarantee that you don't limit yourself and can make an informed decisionBest of LuckDrG

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

That is why it is called a mini FL!!!! - lasts only unto 3-5 years, maybe; shorter recovery; less costs; shorter incisions... If you are a candidate for full FL than always best to have the more lasting results BUT you must understand the increased issues of time, recovery, costs.

Will a mini face lift last as long as a regular facelift?

Answers (18)

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