All About Mini Facelift Surgery

Unlike a traditional facelift, mini facelift surgery is targeted specifically at problem areas in the lower part of the face such as the neck, mouth, and jowls. The surgeon makes small incisions around the affected area and inserts instruments to reshape the underlying muscle and fat to tighten the skin and help remove signs of aging. The surgery is quick - it only takes about an hour to perform - and can be done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. It only takes a week before the healing is complete and the sutures can be removed.

Who Is a Good Candidate?
The improvements produced by mini facelift surgery are not as marked as in a traditional facelift. Therefore, it's best to get the surgery when you're still showing early signs of aging - for instance, if you are in your 30s or 40s with minor drooping in your cheeks and neck or frown lines around the mouth. A heavily aged face will probably require more extensive work. Mini facelift surgery also does not affect the forehead area so it cannot help remove a wrinkled brow.

What Are the Risks?
While any surgical procedure has some inherent risk, mini facelift surgery is extremely safe. The amount of cutting needed to be done is minor so there is less risk of scarring. The small incisions also mean that swelling is usually minimal and recovery is quick - the procedure is sometimes called a "weekend facelift" for that reason. You will be able to return home soon after having the surgery, and discomfort will be minimal.

What Does It Cost?
Since it is a cosmetic procedure, most insurance companies will not pay for mini facelift surgery. The procedure usually costs about $5,000, varying depending on where you live and how skilled the surgeon is. Your plastic surgeon may be able to help you with a financing plan to cover the cost of the surgery.