Mini Facelift vs. Full Facelift: Which One Is Right for You?
The purpose of a facelift is to tighten the issues under the skin, reduce the look of wrinkles, and make you look and feel radiant and younger than you are. Taking years off the look of your face no longer has to be the extremely complex procedure it once was. Now, you have the option of choosing between a mini or full facelift surgery depending on your needs and preferences. Keep reading to learn all about the difference and similarities between the two procedures and how they can improve your appearance.
What Are the Differences Between a Mini and Full Facelift?
Purpose
As mentioned, the main purpose of both procedures is essentially the same. The goal is to tighten the tissues under the skin, remove all wrinkles and fine lines, and create a smoother and younger looking appearance.
Length of Procedure
Since a mini facelift is a shortened version of the conventional full facelift surgery, it takes less time to complete. A mini facelift can be done in approximately 40-90 minutes, whereas a full facelift requires several hours under the knife.
Ideal Candidates
The idea candidates for a mini facelift are younger adults who are preemptively looking to treat the beginnings of fine lines and wrinkles in their faces before they truly start to take form. These are people who want to maintain the perfect skin they already have and reduce the risk of allowing their skin to develop the signs of aging. Full facelifts, on the other hand, are better suited for people over the age of 45 who’ve already started to develop wrinkles and want to look younger or have loose skin removed. This is also ideal for people who’ve recently lost a significant amount of weight and have hanging skin or jowls.
Recovery
Much like the surgical procedure itself, the recovery period for a mini facelift is a lot shorter and easier than the recovery period for a full facelift. The former only requires about 3-5 days of respite before the patient will be able to fully resume their normal activities and return to work whereas the latter may require approximately 3-6 weeks of recovery time. Additionally, the side effects of each type of facelift will vary from one patient to another.
Risk and Side Effects
The risks and side effects of mini and full facelifts are also essentially the same. They range from potential damage to the facial nerves, excessive bleeding, infection, and bruising. Some patients may even experience continuous pain following the procedure. All of these side effects will be more pronounced in smokers and diabetics, which is why doctors always advise their patients to quit smoking before an operation.
Expected Results
The expectation is that by the end of the recovery period you’ll start to notice stunning results and an improved appearance in your face. Fewer or completely eliminated wrinkles, a smoother and more even skin tone, and reduced excess fat cells are just a few of the differences you should notice in your face.
How Do You Know Which Procedure Is Right for You?
The answer to this question is simple: the best way to find out which procedure will work best for you is to consult with a licensed and experienced facial plastic surgeon.
Dr. Gantous at Toronto Facial Plastic Surgery has worked with thousands of patients throughout the span of his career and he’s helped them all achieve optimal levels of happiness and satisfaction in their appearances. As a groundbreaking facial plastic surgeon known world-over, Dr. Gantous has developed a discreet and foolproof method of performing what he calls “incisionless” facelifts. To learn more about this procedure and how it can help you look and feel your absolute best, schedule a consultation at our clinic now!