No one likes the sight of sagging skin when looking at a mirror. Of course, the natural aging process can make that problem difficult to avoid. After seeing those sagging spots around your jawline for the first time, your mind may immediately jump to scheduling a facelift. However, there is an alternative to a conventional facelift that may prove to be a better solution for your current concerns.
The aptly named mini facelift is not quite as well-known as its traditional counterpart, but it’s rapidly gaining popularity. More people are requesting mini facelifts from esteemed surgeons such as Dr. Joel Aronowitz because they deliver impressive results.
Should you also consider getting a mini facelift the next time you visit a plastic surgeon? Learn more about the procedure below so you can make a more informed decision.
What Are the Limitations of a Mini Facelift?
As soon as you saw the term “mini facelift,” you likely assumed it wouldn’t be as comprehensive as a regular facelift. That guess is on the money, but the limitations of a mini facelift may not be as pronounced as you assumed.
A conventional facelift can be used to tighten skin on the middle portion of the face down to the neck. Surgeons can use it to remove neck wrinkles, deep creases next to the nose, and jowls along the jawline. If you have unsightly fat deposits on your face, a surgeon can also remove them during this procedure.
Mini facelifts are not as comprehensive. According to the University of Utah, these newer procedures focus more on the lower portion of the face and the jaw. Signs of aging not located in those areas cannot be removed during a mini facelift.
What Are the Advantages of a Mini Facelift?
Given the inherent limitations of mini facelifts, you may be wondering why respected plastic surgeons such as Joel Aronowitz offer that procedure. It’s easy to comprehend the popularity of the mini facelift when you view it as the more practical option.
Don’t forget that a regular facelift requires lengthy downtime. According to MedlinePlus, it may take four to six weeks before your appearance returns to normal if you undergo that procedure. You may also have to deal with stitches and bandages for a few days after your surgical appointment.
Mini facelifts also have downtime requirements but are easier to fit into packed schedules. It may take a week or so before your face fully heals, but you can resume your routine earlier. Your surgeon can provide more specific details, but patients are generally allowed to resume activities after a few days in recovery.
That difference in downtime can be a big deal if you are using an extended leave to recover from your mini facelift. The chances of complications extending your necessary recovery period are also reduced because mini facelifts are less invasive.
Should You Get a Mini Facelift?
More and more plastic surgeons are offering mini facelifts because they offer distinctive benefits other procedures cannot provide. After going through this article, you should have an idea of how well that procedure can work for you.