Medical description
The mini facelift, sometimes called a short-scar facelift, is intended for early to moderate sagging of the lower face. Like the full facelift, it repositions the musculo-aponeurotic layer (SMAS), but over a more limited area and with less extensive undermining. The incision usually stops around the ear without extending far behind it, and the neck is treated little or not at all. Recovery is generally easier than after a face and neck lift, in exchange for a more moderate correction. It suits people who wish to redefine their jawline before significant sagging appears.
What the procedure can correct
- Early jowls along the jawline
- Slightly drooping facial contour
- Cheeks that have descended towards the lower face
- Nasolabial folds deepened by sagging
- Tired-looking face without a sagging neck
The ideal candidate
A woman or man, often between 40 and 55, with early sagging of the lower face and a neck that is still firm. If there is pronounced sagging of the neck or a large amount of excess skin, the surgeon will rather recommend a face and neck lift. As with any facial surgery, stopping smoking and a stable weight are recommended.
The technique
The procedure is generally performed under local anaesthesia with sedation. A short incision is placed in front of the ear, within its natural folds, sometimes extending slightly into the hair at the temple. The surgeon lifts the skin over a limited area, re-tightens the SMAS with sutures or a short resection, removes the excess skin and then closes without tension. A light dressing is applied for the first few hours.
Your stay, step by step
- 1
Arrival and consultation
Welcome by your coordinator, examination and pre-operative consultation with the practitioner, who confirms the treatment plan.
- 2
Procedure
Local with sedation · 1.5–2.5 h
- 3
Monitoring in the clinic
Hospital stay: Day case or 1 night. The care team looks after your comfort and post-operative monitoring.
- 4
Check-up before departure
Follow-up visit, care, instructions and prescription before your flight home. Recommended stay: 7–9 days.
- 5
Remote follow-up
Back home, you send your photos and stay in touch with the practitioner through your patient area, for up to 12 months.
Risks and recovery
Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness or numbness in the cheeks are usual for a few weeks. Less commonly: haematoma, infection, a widened scar, asymmetry, compromised skin healing in smokers or temporary injury to a branch of the facial nerve. Your surgeon will explain these in detail during the consultation.
The information on this page is provided for guidance only and does not replace a medical consultation. Every procedure carries risks; the indication is made by the practitioner after examination, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
How does it differ from a full facelift?
The mini facelift works on a smaller area, with shorter scars and an easier recovery, but it does not treat a sagging neck. Its effect is suited to early sagging, whereas the face and neck lift corrects more significant sagging.
Is the result as long-lasting?
The benefit generally lasts for several years, but a little less long than after a full facelift, as the correction is more limited. A more extensive lift remains possible later if needed.
Can it be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it is often combined with blepharoplasty or facial fat grafting for a harmonious rejuvenation. Your surgeon will suggest the most appropriate combination during the consultation.
