Full vs. Mini Facelift

If you’re looking into ways to achieve a long-lasting solution for correcting the effects of aging on your appearance, you’ve probably heard about a facelift. But did you know you can choose between the full procedure and what’s known as a mini facelift? These are two different procedures that can rejuvenate your look, and both are surgical. It’s important to know the differences so you can choose which one is right for you.

What are the Differences Between a Full and Mini Facelift?

A full facelift, also known as a traditional facelift, involves a more extensive procedure that addresses the entire face below the brow. A mini facelift addresses a smaller area of the lower face and jawline. In both procedures, incisions are made near the hairline so that muscles and tissues underneath the skin can be tightened, contoured, or even removed depending on the issue and the patient’s wishes. Overall, a facelift gives a much longer lasting effect compared to more temporary treatments such as dermal injections.

Both types of facelifts involve restructuring and tightening of the skin, tissue, and muscle. However, the mini facelift covers less of the face in treatment, which means it may not be as effective at achieving a youthful appearance for some people. In a consultation with any one of the three board-certified plastic surgeons at Maxwell Aesthetics, you can discuss your concerns and goals and she will help you decide which is the right procedure given your unique circumstances.

Recovery Time Comparison

Downtime needed for the two respective types of facelift procedures are different as well. Because a mini facelift covers less of the face and takes a shorter time to perform, the recovery is shorter than that of a full facelift. Mini facelifts also involve smaller incisions and less tissue being affected. Generally, a mini facelift is less invasive than a full facelift, although is still considered a major cosmetic surgical procedure.

Differences in How Long They Last

The full facelift and mini facelift are procedures that make changes in the skin and tissue of your face. This is a drastic difference from the effects of injectables like Botox, which are merely temporary and require additional treatments to maintain their effects. By comparison, either type of facelift will allow you to enjoy your results for a long time.

Mini facelifts usually last upwards of six or seven years, less than what you can expect with a full facelift. This is because less of your face is addressed with the procedure as compared with the full facelift. In other words, the areas of your face that were not addressed with your mini facelift continue to show the natural effects of aging.

Which Type of Facelift is Better for You?

In general, it’s really up to you to decide whether a full facelift or mini facelift is more appropriate. If you prefer the “less is more” approach and feel that a smaller portion of your face needs freshening up, you may want to opt for a mini facelift. However, you should note that this procedure typically addresses sagging issues in the lower portion of the face and the neck.

If you have a problem with wrinkles and deep frown lines throughout your face, you would probably be better suited for a full facelift. Whatever the case, our plastic surgeons will help you determine which type of facelift would be better for you during a consultation.

Mini Facelifts in Tucson, AZ

Whatever your desires for facial rejuvenation, Maxwell Aesthetics is here to help. Our caring team of professionals led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gwen Maxwell will create a comforting environment to talk through your goals and show how we can make them happen. To learn more, start a conversation with us by calling 520-751-1225 or contacting us online.