Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Stephen Lex answers common questions he receives about the mini facelift procedure
Since Dr. Quigley and I started our plastic and reconstructive surgery practice in Flagstaff, Arizona three decades ago, our partners have performed hundreds of facelift and mini facelift procedures.
The mini facelift is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the lower third of the face and the neck. During a mini facelift, we lift and tighten the skin and underlying muscles in the lower face and neck to address wrinkles, sagging skin, and jowls.
Here are some of the most common questions our patients have about the procedure:
What’s the difference between a full facelift and a mini facelift?
The main difference between a mini facelift and a full facelift is the extent of the surgery and the facial areas we target.
The mini facelift is a less invasive procedure than a full facelift, and recovery is usually a little quicker. During a mini lift, we’ll make slightly smaller incisions, through which we remove extra skin and tighten fascia. This creates a smooth, youthful, and lifted appearance in the lower third of the face and the neck. Full facelifts address signs of aging, sagging skin, and undesirable fat deposits on the lower two-thirds of the face.
Another key difference between full and mini facelifts is sedation. Mini facelifts can be performed under local anesthesia, whereas full facelift procedures require IV sedation or general anesthesia.
Am I a good candidate for a mini facelift?
The mini facelift can be a good option for patients who want to smooth, tighten, and lift their lower face and neck. If you are a non-smoker and in generally good health, chances are you are a good candidate for facelift surgery. Make sure that you consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine your surgical eligibility and talk about the best procedural approaches based on your unique anatomy.
How much do facelifts cost?
The cost of a mini facelift can vary depending on several factors, including your surgeon’s experience level, the practice location, procedural techniques, and the extent of the surgery required to achieve the desired results.
On average, the nationwide cost for facelift surgical fees ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. It’s also worth noting that this price may not include anesthesia fees, facility fees, preoperative tests, medications, and postoperative care. Before your facelift, make sure to talk to your plastic surgeon about all ancillary costs.
At Plastic Surgeons of Northern Arizona, we offer six- and 12-month interest-free financing options through Care Credit. Please set up a consultation with one of our surgeons to learn more about the procedure and to receive a personalized quote.
How can you ensure that I won’t look overdone?
Poor facelift procedures look over-tightened, obviously overworked, and fake. A key to achieving a more appealing mini facelift result is correctly tensioning the skin and underlying fascia, and adding volume through fat grafting in patients who need it.
Aside from practicing good skincare and preventing sun damage, several non-surgical treatments can help tighten facial skin, restore lost volume, sculpt and jawline, and rejuvenate the skin on the face and neck, including:
While these treatments aren’t permanent, they can help minimize and slow down signs of aging.
Book Your Mini Facelift Consultation Today!
Our experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons have performed hundreds of facelift procedures. We would love to bring you in for a mini facelift consultation to discuss your desired outcomes and treatment options.