A mini facelift, also called a short-scar facelift, is designed to tighten sagging skin on the lower half of the face. The procedure is still surgical but requires less downtime than a full facelift and typically appeals to those who want a subtle anti-aging solution for those who are just starting to notice changes in their facial features.

At Shah Aesthetic Surgery in South Denver, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Manish Shah performs a variety of facelifts, including mini facelifts, for those seeking a more dramatic effect than wrinkle relaxers and filler can provide.

What is the difference between a regular facelift and a mini facelift?

In general, facelifts are designed to tighten skin and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. A standard facelift involves longer incisions and more dramatic results, and can address issues in the mid and bottom facial areas, and the neck.

Depending on your goals for a mini facelift, it may require general or local anesthesia. During the procedure, Dr. Shah will make small incisions around your ears and hairline, manipulate the underlying tissue, lift the skin, and remove excess before stitching up the incisions.

Facelifts do not address the upper facial area. However, they can be accompanied by other treatments, such as an eye lift or dermal fillers to address wrinkles and creases in the forehead and eye areas.

Patients under 50 years old who are experiencing mild to moderate sagging skin, such as jowls and creases around the mouth, are the primary candidates for a mini facelift.

How can a mini facelift make me look younger?

Mini facelifts can address the following issues for clients as young as their early 40s:

• Jowls
• Loss of definition in the jawline
• Sagging or loose skin beneath the cheeks
• Fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth

There is no perfect age to get a mini facelift, and the benefits will depend on the condition of your skin and factors such as your smoking history and sun exposure.

What can I expect after a mini facelift?

Some patients experience bruising and swelling after a mini facelift, and side effects can last a few weeks. Sutures from the surgery are typically removed after ten days. You can ask Dr. Shah any questions about your recovery by calling the office or bringing them up at your post-operative appointment at Shah Aesthetic Surgery.

Mini facelift results do not last as long as those of a standard facelift. However, patients may continue to enjoy more youthful-looking skin for up to 10 years after the procedure. All cosmetic surgery results can be affected by repeated sun exposure and weight gain, so it’s essential to continue to care for your face and overall health to get the most out of your mini facelift.

If you feel like a mini facelift doesn’t address all of your concerns, you can also ask Dr. Shah about other complementary noninvasive procedures, such as dermal fillers to address issues in the neck, mid-face, eye, and forehead areas.

Find out more about mini facelift surgery in South Denver

Shah Aesthetic Surgery serves patients in South Denver, Cherry Creek, and the surrounding areas. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Manish Shah performs a wide array of facial rejuvenation and anti-aging procedures.

If you’re curious about facelift surgery or a mini facelift, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Shah to discuss your goals.