Medically reviewed by Mr Hyder Ridha, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon
Mini Facelift
A mini facelift tightens skin and tissue in the mid to lower face and jawline and is a less invasive surgical procedure than a full facelift. Mini facelifts address early signs of ageing such as sagging skin, jowls and wrinkles, resulting in a refreshed, more youthful appearance.
The procedure has less scarring and downtime than a facelift and is perfect for those seeking rejuvenation for early or moderate signs of ageing in their 40s and 50s. If you’re interested in learning more about a mini facelift, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
We are ideally located to perform mini face lift procedures for patients in London and Hertfordshire. Our friendly staff are always available to answer any questions you may have.
Book a consultation with Mr Ridha, MB BS, BSc (Hons), FRCS (Plast), today, lead surgeon in HR Plastic Surgery and take the first step towards a revitalised and refreshed appearance!
A Mini Facelift tightens the skin and tissues of the mid - lower face for a more refreshed and youthful appearance.
Facelift: At a Glance
Surgery time
2-2.5 hours
Anaesthesia
Local or general
Hospital stay
Day case
Recovery
2 weeks scar healing; 4-6 weeks total recovery
What is a Mini Facelift?
A mini facelift targets specific areas of the face to improve signs of ageing, such as sagging skin, jowls and wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
A mini face lift, also known as a short scar facelift, is a cosmetic procedure that restores a youthful appearance to the face by improving specific areas such as the jawline and jowls.
The procedure may be performed in combination with a brow lift or eyelid surgery to improve the appearance of the upper face and periorbital region.
The procedure may be performed under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic, and involves making a small incision in front of the ear and tightening the underlying superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) – a fibromuscular layer that provides facial soft tissue support, as well as removal of excess skin.
Although not as comprehensive as a full facelift, a mini facelift can still deliver significant cosmetic improvement and is a good option for those who have more limited and localised signs of ageing.
Understanding a mini facelift procedure, and the risks and potential life-changing benefits, will make you feel more confident about your decision to proceed with this surgery. This guide helps you explore key aspects in a mini facelift procedure.
Why choose a Mini Facelift at HR Plastic Surgery?
We prioritise client satisfaction and results. The mini facelift is performed by expert lead surgeon Mr. Ridha, who takes a personalised approach to ensure each patient gets the best possible outcome. We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure the highest level of care.
Mr Hyder Ridha is an esteemed consultant in the field of plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. He received his medical degree from the prestigious Royal Free and University College London Medical School, where he graduated with distinction (MB BS) in 2003. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Anatomy and Developmental Biology (First-class Honours).
With over 15 years of research and clinical experience, he has built an excellent reputation for delivering state-of-the-art, life-changing aesthetic procedures. With a focus on natural-looking results, Mr. Ridha is dedicated to helping his patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
Benefits of a Mini Facelift
There are several benefits to a mini facelift, these include:
- Minimally Invasive
A mini facelift is less invasive than a full facelift and involves making a shorter incision and less disruption of the underlying muscles and tissues. This means that there is less scarring, swelling, and bruising after the procedure. - Shorter Recovery Time
As a mini facelift is less invasive, patients can typically return to their normal activities within a week. This means that there is less downtime and less time off work. - Natural-Looking Results
Rather than just removing the excess skin and tightening the remaining skin which often results in a wind-swept appearance, in a mini-facelift the lift is achieved by tightening the underlying SMAS layer, as well as removing the excess skin. - A mini facelift focuses on specific areas of the face, so it can deliver results that are natural-looking. This is especially important for those who want to restore a youthful appearance to their face without looking “overdone.”
- Cost-Effective
A mini facelift is more cost-effective than alternatives such as thread lifts and is longer lasting, making it a superior option for those who are looking to rejuvenate their appearance. - Safe and Effective
A mini facelift is a safe and effective way to rejuvenate the appearance of the face and does not rely on any foreign body or material. It’s important to remember that a mini facelift is still a surgical procedure, and therefore, it is essential to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to perform the surgery.
Risks of Facelift Surgery
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a mini facelift, including:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Infection
- Nerve damage
Who is a good candidate for a Mini Facelift?
A good candidate for a mini facelift is someone who is in good health and has mild to moderate sagging or wrinkles in the mid to lower facial area. The procedure is not appropriate for individuals with extensive ageing or sagging skin in other areas of the face or neck.
Ideal candidates tend to be concerned with:
Sagging/Loose skin
Jowl formation
Loss of definition of the neck and jawline
Deepened nasolabial folds and marionette lines
Wrinkles (Rhytids)
Facial volume loss
Related Conditions
Jowls are what we call the loose sagging skin that hang below the jawline
Facial
Facial Volume Loss
From your late twenties to early thirties, you may start to notice a loss of volume in your face.
Facial
Loose Neck Skin / Full Neck
Loose neck skin is a natural, though unwelcome, consequence of ageing.
Facial
Skin Wrinkles
Wrinkles are, sadly, a natural consequence of ageing. They are the creases, folds or ridges that appear in the skin...
Book a Consultation
Take the first step toward your ideal look by booking a consultation with our expert surgeon.
Understanding what a Mini Facelift operation involves, can help you feel more confident and prepared for your journey. Mini Facelift procedures are carefully planned to achieve the results you desire, whilst keeping your safety and comfort paramount. From your initial consultation to recovery from your Mini Facelift, each step is designed to offer a smooth experience. We outline below what you can expect from the process.
Consultation
All of our cosmetic surgical procedures begin with an in-depth consultation so we can fully understand your goals and objectives for a mini facelift and ensure we adopt the best procedures to meet your goals. Your mini face lift consultation will:-
- Analyse your facial anatomy and degree of facial ageing
- Discuss your goals
- Assess your overall health
Based on this, a personalised treatment plan will be made to best meet your objectives.
Mini Facelift Procedure
A mini facelift is performed as a day case procedure under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic if preferred.
Step 1
A short incision is made in the natural skin creases in front of the ear to allow access to the underlying SMAS soft tissue
Step 2
The SMAS is released and then lifted and repositioned to restore a youthful appearance.
Step 3
The excess skin is then removed, and the incisions are closed with non-absorbable sutures and dressed.
Mini Facelift Recovery Timeline
Patients can return to normal activities within a 1-2 days but should avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for four weeks.
It is important to adhere to the post-procedure instructions and follow-up care to ensure the best outcome.
What is the cost of a Mini Facelift?
Prices from
£10,800
At HR Plastic Surgery, our lead surgeon, Mr. Ridha is highly experienced in performing mini facelifts and is dedicated to providing his patients with excellent results.
During your consultation, he will examine your face, discuss your goals and expectations, and provide a detailed quote for your mini facelift surgery.
The cost of the mini facelift in the UK also includes a surgical fee, anaesthetic fee, and operating theatre time/facility fee. We offer a range of finance plans* for convenience if required. You can find more information on our pricing and payment plans pages*, otherwise, please get in touch with our team and we’ll gladly discuss your options.
FAQs
What's The Main Difference Between Mini Facelift Surgery And Traditional Facelift Surgery?
The main difference between a mini facelift and a traditional facelift is the extent of the procedure and the areas of the face that are treated. A mini facelift is less invasive and focuses on the mid and lower facial area, specifically the cheeks and jawline. The incisions are shorter and the recovery time is shorter. On the other hand, a ‘full’ facelift addresses ageing and sagging in the mid and lower face and neck and typically necessitates a longer incision that extends behind the ear.
Are You Put To Sleep For A Mini Lift?
Not necessarily, a mini facelift may be performed under local anaesthetic.. This means that the patient is conscious during the procedure and experiences no discomfort. Should it be desired, the procedure can be performed under general anaesthetic.
Can A Mini Face Lift Be Performed In Combination With Other Surgical Procedures?
Yes, a mini facelift can often be performed in combination with other cosmetic procedures, such as eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or skin resurfacing. These options, if felt necessary will be recommended and discussed during the initial consultation.
What Is The Difference Between A Mini Facelift And A Non-surgical Facelift?
A mini facelift is a surgical procedure that involves incisions, repositioning of the underlying muscles and connective tissue, and removal of any excess skin. A non-surgical facelift, on the other hand, typically involves the use of injectable treatments, such as dermal fillers or Botox, to improve the appearance of the face and does not involve surgery.
How long will the results of a Mini Facelift last?
The results of a mini facelift can be long-lasting with proper skin care and maintenance. However, no cosmetic procedure can stop the ageing process entirely, and the results of a mini facelift will eventually fade over time. The length of time that the results will last will depend on a number of factors, including the patient’s age, skin type, and overall health.
Is a Mini Facelift right for me?
If you have signs of facial ageing limited to the mid and lower face, then you may be a candidate for a mini-facelift procedure. A consultation with a facial rejuvenation expert will be able to go through your goals and discuss the type of procedure that would most likely achieve your expectations.
Are The Results Of A Lower Facelift Permanent?
No surgical procedure is permanent, as the ageing process continues. However, maintenance measures such as adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a stable weight and avoiding smoking will prolong the longevity of the results achieved.
How Much Time Will I Have To Be Off Work?
7-10 days is off work is generally advised to allow any swelling and bruising to settle. This may vary according to the nature of work, with more physical jobs requiring more time off.
When Can I Exercise Again After A Mini Facelift?
It is advised to avoid strenuous activity for at least a month following a mini-facelift to allow the incisions and the soft tissue to heal
When Can I Wear Makeup Again After A Lower Facelift?
Make up may be applied 1 week after surgery and can help conceal any bruising. The incision lines are best avoided for 2 weeks. Areas that have not been directly operated on, such as the eyelids can have makeup applied earlier if desired.
What Will The Scarring Be Like?
The incisions are limited to the area in front of the ear and in some cases may extend to temple hairline. The incisions are placed within the natural creases and contours and are meticulously closed to achieve discreet scars. During the healing phase the scars will be red, but over time, the course of a year, as they mature they become white in colour and are barely visible.
How To Choose The Best Surgeon For My Mini Facelift?
It is essential to ensure that your surgeon is a fully qualified plastic surgeon who is on the GMC specialist register. A consultation will help determine if the surgeon understands your goals. It is important to develop a rapport as facial rejuvenation should be best considered a journey rather than an isolated event.
Finally it is crucial to see examples of the results of their surgery as this will demonstrate their artistic eye and showcase what is achievable, assisting you in your decision as to whether or not to proceed with this particular surgeon.
What Is The Follow-up Care After A Mini Facelift?
A dressing clinic appointment is normally arranged at 1 week following the procedure, where the wounds are checked, sutures are removed and wound care advice is given.
Time is then given for any swelling and bruising to settle, but regular checks are made with the specialist plastic surgery nurse to ensure the recovery and healing is as expected.
An outpatient follow up appointment is arranged for 6 weeks following surgery with your consultant as at this point the final result is almost achieved.
Access essential resources & information at your convenience.
Browse our collection of brochures, guides, and forms to learn more about our procedures, prepare for your visit, or explore your options. Simply download what you need to get started.
Facelift & Necklift Patient Leaflet
Preparing Safely for Surgery
Related Procedures
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical cosmetic procedure to tighten and lift the skin on the face and neck...
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess neck skin and fat and tightens neck muscles to provide...
A deep plane facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that lifts and repositions the skin along with the deeper facial...