Understanding How a Mini Facelift Is Done

If you are looking to address skin ageing through cosmetic surgery, a Mini Facelift or Short Scar Facelift may be an option. This surgical procedure focuses on minimising loose skin in targeted areas of the face and offers a shorter recovery period compared to more extensive facelift procedures.

In this blog, Artiste Plastic Surgery provides general information about the mini facelift procedure, outlining the steps involved and what patients might expect from the process.

What is a Mini Facelift?

A Mini Facelift is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the appearance of certain signs of facial ageing. It offers a less extensive alternative to a full facelift, focusing on specific areas such as mild loose skin, wrinkles, or jowls. Outcomes may vary from person to person, and the procedure typically involves a shorter recovery period compared to more comprehensive surgeries.

How is it done?

• Getting a GP referral: GP referral ensures that you receive coordinated care, including an informed discussion about the procedure’s benefits, risks, and suitability. It can also help facilitate continuity of care, particularly if there are any underlying medical conditions that need consideration before surgery.
• Consultation with a qualified surgeon: The process begins with a consultation with a qualified surgeon to understand the patient’s goals and set realistic expectations. A tailored treatment plan is developed during this discussion.
• Anaesthesia: The procedure typically begins with the administration of local anaesthesia or sedation..
• Incisions: Small incisions are made along the temporal hairline, ear tragus, and below the lobule to access the midface, lower jowls, and upper neck. The procedure involves lifting the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) 

• Excess Skin Removal: Any loose skin is carefully 
• Deep Plane: A deep plane is created to lift the jowls and cheek.
• Closure: The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures, and any necessary post-operative care instructions are provided to the patient.

Like in any surgical procedure, a mini facelift involves potential risks and complications. 

Who is the ideal candidate?

Suitability is best determined through consultation with a qualified surgeon, who will assess each patient’s specific concerns and goals. Obtaining GP referral is also essential before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Candidates are typically in good general health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.