Mini Facelifts Treat Sagging Skin

Skin droopiness is one of the main components in facial aging (the other two being texture changes like wrinkles, and volume loss that makes our face look thinner). When the three aspects of facial aging combine, it makes us look older and more tired.
There are a number of solutions for skin droopiness, from the mild and non-surgical treatments available through our esthetician, to the more dramatic results available through surgery. If you have pronounced skin droopiness or sagging, especially in the lower part of the face, a mini-lift may be right for you.

What is a Mini-Lift?
A mini-lift is a form of facial plastic surgery that is similar to a full facelift surgery, but with less recovery time and less dramatic results. A mini-lift concentrates on correcting skin sagging in the lower half of the face (the jowls, jaw, and sometimes the marionette lines around the mouth). It is an excellent surgical option for patients who do not need a full facelift.
 
How is it Different From Facelift Surgery
While a full facelift targets the whole face, a mini-lift does not. The incision for a mini-lift is generally about a third of the length of a full facelift scar. There are usually no incisions made along the hairline with a mini-lift- the incision is restricted to the areas around the ear.
 
What is Recovery Like?
Recovery from a mini-lift usually lasts between one to two weeks, compared to the four week recovery of the full facelift surgery. You will experience some bruising and swelling, which will dissipate after a few days. Most patients will be able to leave the house for mild activities within a week, and return to work after about ten days.
 
The Results
After a mini-lift, you will see a tighter neck, a reduction or elimination of jowls, and tighter skin around the mouth and lower cheeks. A mini-lift (or any cosmetic surgery, for that matter) does not halt the aging process, so in a few years you may notice that your skin is once again experiencing some sagging. Your plastic surgeon can recommend skin care products that will help you maintain your post-operative appearance.
Please call our office to schedule a consultation or with any questions. Our number is (703) 574-2588. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.