Mini-Facelift Procedure
Q. Who is the mini-facelift suitable for?
A. The mini-facelift is suitable for men and women who are just starting to notice the first signs of ageing. Because of the short recuperation times, many patients choose this type of surgery over intensive facial surgery. Patients are usually in their 30s and 40s and have specific areas that they would like to enhance or detract attention from. Sagging eyelids, eye bags, dropping cheeks, jowls and neck areas are all common areas that are addressed. The mini-facelift is quick and effective and most patients can recover completely in a matter of days hence why this procedure is sometimes referred to as the “weekend facelift”.
Q. How does a mini-facelift differ from a full facelift?
A. A full facelift focuses on the entire face, lifting sagging skin and reducing wrinkles in all areas. The mini-facelift by contrast focuses on targeted areas and these will be discussed with you prior to the surgery taking place. A mini-facelift cannot improve entire areas such as the forehead whereas this would normally be achieved with traditional surgery. Your surgeon will go over the entire procedure and the types of facelifts with you so that you are happy with what is going to happen and know what to expect. Of course, recuperation times are also much quicker with the mini-facelift.
Q. Are there any scars following a mini-facelift procedure?
A. There will be some general scarring in the areas where the incisions are made, but because these incisions are made around the curves of the ear and the hairline behind, they will be concealed well and hardly noticeable. Your consultant will show you many before and after photos to put your mind at rest before you make a decision.
Q. How painful is the mini-facelift procedure?
A. The mini-facelift is considered to be uncomfortable rather than painful. In fact, the mini-facelift is performed under local anaesthetic and any discomfort that follows can easily be controlled using mild painkillers. Your surgeon will also advise you of any after-care procedures you need to follow.
Q. What is the recovery time of a mini-facelift?
A. Following the procedure, patients are sent home to recover. Any discomfort can be relieved using low-dose oral painkillers. Stitches will then be removed within five to six days providing that the wound is healing sufficiently. A lighter bandage will then be applied and the patient will be given information on how to care for the wound. Patients will receive after-care from their surgical team during the first few months following surgery. There will be some localised bruising and swelling, but this should fade and disappear after 10 days.
Q. When can I return to my normal daily activities?
A. Patients are able to return to work within ten days following the mini-facelift procedure. If you are not worried about the lighter bandages it may be possible for you to return to work sooner. Your surgeon will be able to discuss recovery times in more detail with you.
Q. Are there any risks involved with a mini-facelift?
A. As with any kind of surgery there are always a number of risks involved. Risks, although few and far between, can include infection or bleeding, but both can be easily treated and regulated. It is possible to suffer scarring even if the surgeon used the utmost in precision and care. This is usually related to the overall ability of the patient to heal from scars, but scarring will usually be minimal. Speaking to your surgeon about any concerns you may have will help you to understand the procedure, how it is carried out and what you can expect afterwards.
