Mini Facelift Surgery
Mini Facelift Surgery
Mini Facelift Surgery
What happens during Facial Ageing?
Facial ageing is inevitable - the stresses of daily life, effects of gravity and exposure to sun can be seen on our faces. The folds and smile lines deepen, the corners of the mouth droop, the jaw line sags and the skin of the neck becomes slack. Around the eyes, the eyebrows droop and the skin of the eyelids gathers in loose folds. In the skin the first sign is fine wrinkles developing around the lips, at the outer corners of the eye and lines of expression. The rate at which this happens varies from one person to another and is probably determined by our genes. Aging of the skin of the face does not necessarily reflect the rate that the rest of our body and mind is ageing and many people feel frustrated that the face they see in the mirror is not the one they feel should be there. Substantial weight loss can produce similar changes in facial appearance to those of the aging process.
What happens during Facial Ageing?
Facial ageing is inevitable - the stresses of daily life, effects of gravity and exposure to sun can be seen on our faces. The folds and smile lines deepen, the corners of the mouth droop, the jaw line sags and the skin of the neck becomes slack. Around the eyes, the eyebrows droop and the skin of the eyelids gathers in loose folds. In the skin the first sign is fine wrinkles developing around the lips, at the outer corners of the eye and lines of expression. The rate at which this happens varies from one person to another and is probably determined by our genes. Aging of the skin of the face does not necessarily reflect the rate that the rest of our body and mind is ageing and many people feel frustrated that the face they see in the mirror is not the one they feel should be there. Substantial weight loss can produce similar changes in facial appearance to those of the aging process.
What happens during Facial Ageing?
Facial ageing is inevitable - the stresses of daily life, effects of gravity and exposure to sun can be seen on our faces. The folds and smile lines deepen, the corners of the mouth droop, the jaw line sags and the skin of the neck becomes slack. Around the eyes, the eyebrows droop and the skin of the eyelids gathers in loose folds. In the skin the first sign is fine wrinkles developing around the lips, at the outer corners of the eye and lines of expression. The rate at which this happens varies from one person to another and is probably determined by our genes. Aging of the skin of the face does not necessarily reflect the rate that the rest of our body and mind is ageing and many people feel frustrated that the face they see in the mirror is not the one they feel should be there. Substantial weight loss can produce similar changes in facial appearance to those of the aging process.
Who will benefit from a mini-facelift?
The best candidate is one whose face and neck has begun to sag, but whose skin still has some elasticity and whose bone structure is strong and well defined. Most patients are in their 40's to 50’s, but facelifts can be done successfully on people in their 60’s, 70's or 80's. It should not be obvious that a patient has had a facelift, but instead they look younger and more youthful. It is a procedure that technically works well, but also increases morale and is well appreciated by the patient.
Overview
Mini Facelift
Surgical
Procedure Time
2 Hours
Return to Work
10-14 Days
Full Recovery
4-6 Weeks
What is a Mini Facelift?
A mini facelift is a procedure commonly used to address the first stage of facial ageing - whereby the skin and tissue are progressively losing their elasticity and the muscles have begun to sag. The first places we tend to notice this at these early stages is around the mid face -directly affecting the jaw line and jowls. Mild sagging may also be present at the top of the neck. A mini facelift is a less invasive version of a traditional facelift. It’s designed to address early signs of aging in the lower face and jawline, such as sagging skin, jowls, and mild laxity, without the downtime and scarring associated with a full facelift. It can also tighten the top third of the neck area too - so is commonly associated with a neck lift also. A mini facelift usually begins with a small incision placed just in front of the ears. These incisions are made along the natural folds of the skin, which helps keep any scarring well-hidden. Usually in a ‘S’ shape - though variations may be applicable in each case. Through these incisions, the surgeon gently lifts the skin and tightens the underlying tissues to restore a smoother, more defined look to the jawline and lower face with any extra skin removed to achieve a natural-looking result. A mini facelift is usually lifting and tightening skin and tissue only. Small incisions to tighten some lower face muscle may occur but it is not to be confused with the more intrusive deep plane’ facelift at all. It has significantly less downtime, greater recovery and will bide patients many more years before needing to maybe consider going down the invasive ‘deep plane’ route.
A mini facelift is a procedure commonly used to address the first stage of facial ageing - whereby the skin and tissue are progressively losing their elasticity and the muscles have begun to sag. The first places we tend to notice this at these early stages is around the mid face -directly affecting the jaw line and jowls. Mild sagging may also be present at the top of the neck. A mini facelift is a less invasive version of a traditional facelift. It’s designed to address early signs of aging in the lower face and jawline, such as sagging skin, jowls, and mild laxity, without the downtime and scarring associated with a full facelift. It can also tighten the top third of the neck area too - so is commonly associated with a neck lift also. A mini facelift usually begins with a small incision placed just in front of the ears. These incisions are made along the natural folds of the skin, which helps keep any scarring well-hidden. Usually in a ‘S’ shape - though variations may be applicable in each case. Through these incisions, the surgeon gently lifts the skin and tightens the underlying tissues to restore a smoother, more defined look to the jawline and lower face with any extra skin removed to achieve a natural-looking result. A mini facelift is usually lifting and tightening skin and tissue only. Small incisions to tighten some lower face muscle may occur but it is not to be confused with the more intrusive deep plane’ facelift at all. It has significantly less downtime, greater recovery and will bide patients many more years before needing to maybe consider going down the invasive ‘deep plane’ route.
The surgery
The procedure takes approximately 2 hours to complete.
The sutures are removed between 7 and 10 days.
You will see results and recovery is expected around 4-6 weeks post procedure.
After your surgery there is usually some bruising of the cheeks and with gravity this tends to descend into the neck. Discomfort is usually mild and can be controlled with Paracetamol or co-codamol. It is normal for there to be some numbness of the skin of the cheeks and ears. This will usually disappear in a few weeks. It is better to keep the head elevated and sleep upright for a couple of days to reduce swelling. If drainage tubes are fitted, they will be removed a day or two after surgery. Drainage tubes are rarely used in surgery, however an option if the surgeon deems necessary.
Avoid strenuous activity, saunas and massage for at least two-three weeks. At the beginning your face will look a little puffy and may feel rather strange and stiff. Camouflage make-up such as concealer etc, can be helpful in masking bruising.
Men may need to shave their beard closer to the ear in front and also behind the ear where the skin has been lifted.
The scars in the hair do not usually show except that the hair is cut shorter immediately around the wound. There may be some slight reduction in hair growth in the temples, but this is not usually a problem unless the hair is very thin and repeated facelifts are being carried out.
How long does a mini facelift last?
A mini facelift does not stop the clock, but it does put the clock back. The effect of the facelift is likely to always be there, in that you will not look as old as you would have done if it had not been carried out and can last up to and over 10 years.
Who will benefit from a mini-facelift?
The best candidate is one whose face and neck has begun to sag, but whose skin still has some elasticity and whose bone structure is strong and well defined. Most patients are in their 40's to 50’s, but facelifts can be done successfully on people in their 60’s, 70's or 80's. It should not be obvious that a patient has had a facelift, but instead they look younger and more youthful. It is a procedure that technically works well, but also increases morale and is well appreciated by the patient.
Who will benefit from a mini-facelift?
The best candidate is one whose face and neck has begun to sag, but whose skin still has some elasticity and whose bone structure is strong and well defined. Most patients are in their 40's to 50’s, but facelifts can be done successfully on people in their 60’s, 70's or 80's. It should not be obvious that a patient has had a facelift, but instead they look younger and more youthful. It is a procedure that technically works well, but also increases morale and is well appreciated by the patient.
The surgery
The procedure takes approximately 2 hours to complete.
The sutures are removed between 7 and 10 days.
You will see results and recovery is expected around 4-6 weeks post procedure.
After your surgery there is usually some bruising of the cheeks and with gravity this tends to descend into the neck. Discomfort is usually mild and can be controlled with Paracetamol or co-codamol. It is normal for there to be some numbness of the skin of the cheeks and ears. This will usually disappear in a few weeks. It is better to keep the head elevated and sleep upright for a couple of days to reduce swelling. If drainage tubes are fitted, they will be removed a day or two after surgery. Drainage tubes are rarely used in surgery, however an option if the surgeon deems necessary.
Avoid strenuous activity, saunas and massage for at least two-three weeks. At the beginning your face will look a little puffy and may feel rather strange and stiff. Camouflage make-up such as concealer etc, can be helpful in masking bruising.
Men may need to shave their beard closer to the ear in front and also behind the ear where the skin has been lifted.
The scars in the hair do not usually show except that the hair is cut shorter immediately around the wound. There may be some slight reduction in hair growth in the temples, but this is not usually a problem unless the hair is very thin and repeated facelifts are being carried out.
The surgery
The procedure takes approximately 2 hours to complete.
The sutures are removed between 7 and 10 days.
You will see results and recovery is expected around 4-6 weeks post procedure.
After your surgery there is usually some bruising of the cheeks and with gravity this tends to descend into the neck. Discomfort is usually mild and can be controlled with Paracetamol or co-codamol. It is normal for there to be some numbness of the skin of the cheeks and ears. This will usually disappear in a few weeks. It is better to keep the head elevated and sleep upright for a couple of days to reduce swelling. If drainage tubes are fitted, they will be removed a day or two after surgery. Drainage tubes are rarely used in surgery, however an option if the surgeon deems necessary.
Avoid strenuous activity, saunas and massage for at least two-three weeks. At the beginning your face will look a little puffy and may feel rather strange and stiff. Camouflage make-up such as concealer etc, can be helpful in masking bruising.
Men may need to shave their beard closer to the ear in front and also behind the ear where the skin has been lifted.
The scars in the hair do not usually show except that the hair is cut shorter immediately around the wound. There may be some slight reduction in hair growth in the temples, but this is not usually a problem unless the hair is very thin and repeated facelifts are being carried out.
How long does a mini facelift last?
A mini facelift does not stop the clock, but it does put the clock back. The effect of the facelift is likely to always be there, in that you will not look as old as you would have done if it had not been carried out and can last up to and over 10 years.
How long does a mini facelift last?
A mini facelift does not stop the clock, but it does put the clock back. The effect of the facelift is likely to always be there, in that you will not look as old as you would have done if it had not been carried out and can last up to and over 10 years.
Overview
Mini Facelift
Surgical
Procedure Time
2 Hours
Return to Work
10-14 Days
Full Recovery
4-6 Weeks
Procedure Time
2 Hours
Return to Work
10-14 Days
Full Recovery
4-6 Weeks
Important
Proper post-operative care is essential for a smooth recovery and optimal results following a mini face lift. Patients should rest with their head elevated to minimise swelling and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Bruising and swelling are normal and will gradually subside over time. It is crucial to follow prescribed pain management and wound care instructions to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Compression garments or bandages may be recommended to support the healing process and enhance contouring. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor progress and address any concerns. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking or excessive sun exposure will help prolong results. Patients should immediately report any unusual symptoms, such as severe pain, excessive swelling, or signs of infection, to their healthcare provider for timely intervention.
Care, Compassion and Medical Excellence
Primary care, specialist consultations and
cosmetic surgery.
Clinic hours
Mon: 9:30am–6:30pm
Tues: 9:30am–6pm
Wed: 9:30am–8pm
Thurs: 9:30am–7:30pm
Fri: 9:30am–4pm
© Neo Medical 2025. All rights reserved. Impressum.
Care, Compassion and Medical Excellence
Primary care, specialist consultations and
cosmetic surgery.
Clinic hours
Mon: 9:30am–6:30pm
Tues: 9:30am–6pm
Wed: 9:30am–8pm
Thurs: 9:30am–7:30pm
Fri: 9:30am–4pm
© Neo Medical 2025. All rights reserved.
Care, Compassion
and Medical Excellence
Primary care, specialist consultations and cosmetic surgery.
Clinic hours
Mon: 9:30am–6:30pm
Tues: 9:30am–6pm
Wed: 9:30am–8pm
Thurs: 9:30am–7:30pm
Fri: 9:30am–4pm
