Mini Face Lift

What is a Mini Face Lift?

A mini face lift is a minimally invasive in-office procedure that instantly improves the appearance. Not nearly as drastic as the traditional face lift, the mini gives patients a refreshed, younger look. Whereas old-fashioned face lifts often result in an over tightened, stretched profile, the mini lift simply makes patients look well-rested. The mini face lift is known by several names, including:

• Band-aid lift
• "S" lift
• Mid-face lift
• Weekend face lift
• Quick lift
• Lifestyle lift

The Procedure

During this inpatient procedure, the physician makes a small incision, usually hidden in the hairline. The incision stops behind the earlobe. The plastic surgeon then removes the excess fat and skin in the mid-face area, tightening the profile. Other physicians prefer the place the incision beneath the chin. Still others opt to cut above the ears. Placement of the incision will vary depending on the physician and the individual problem areas. Regardless of incision locale, frown lines and wrinkles are erased or drastically reduced. The surgery is so non-invasive that only local anesthesia is needed.

Candidates

Only a qualified physician can determine whether or not a man or woman is a good candidate for the procedure. However, generally candidates meet the following criteria:

• Are between the ages of 40 and 65 years old.
• Have moderately sagging skin in the mid and lower face.
• Have moderate signs of aging, including wrinkles, frown lines, and loss of firmness.

The mini face lift is not normally effective on more severe signs of aging. In addition, patients with chronic medical conditions, especially ones that affect wound healing, may not be candidates.

Recovery Time & Side Effects

Details of recovery will vary depending on the individual doctor, the exact method used, and the patient, but the recovery time is usually remarkably quick. In fact, most patients are able to return to work in much less than a week.

Side effects are usually minor with this procedure, with most patients experiencing only slight bruising. Most do not even require bandages. Provided the patient carefully follows after care instructions, scars are usually unnoticeable. In rare cases, more serious side effects occur, including:

• Hematoma (pool of blood caused by a broken blood vessel)
• Skin Infection
• Bleeding
• Temporary numbness
• Swelling
• Nerve damage
• Asymmetry
• Seroma (a mass)
• Allergic reactions to the anesthesia

Finding a Practioner

As the mini face lift becomes more popular, more and more facilities are offering the procedure. Still, it is important to do your research to ensure that your doctor is qualified. You can begin your search by asking for referrals from family, friends, and your doctor. You can also check your local Yellow Pages. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) maintains a list of board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in plastic surgery.

Once you have found candidate surgeons, go in for a consultation. Many surgeons now offer free consultations. Ask to see a portfolio feature before and after photos. In possible, speak to past patients. It is also important to listen to your gut. If you do not feel comfortable with the physician, keep looking.