Differences between Full Facelift and Mini Facelift
Contents
Full Facelift vs. Mini Facelift
A full facelift and a mini facelift are surgical procedures that address signs of aging in the face and neck. A full facelift is a more extensive surgery that targets moderate to severe sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck.[1] In contrast, a mini facelift is a less invasive option that focuses on mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and jawline.[2][3] The choice between the two procedures depends on the patient's age, skin elasticity, and the extent of correction desired.[1]
Comparison Table
| Category | Full Facelift | Mini Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Target Areas | Cheeks, jawline, and neck[3] | Lower face and jawline[4] |
| Ideal Candidate | Individuals with moderate to severe facial aging, typically in their 50s and older[1] | Individuals with early signs of aging, often in their 40s and early 50s[1][5] |
| Invasiveness | More extensive surgery with longer incisions[1] | Less invasive with smaller incisions |
| Recovery Time | Approximately 2 to 4 weeks[1][3] | Approximately 1 to 2 weeks[4][3][5] |
| Longevity of Results | 10 to 15 years[4] | 5 to 10 years[4] |
| Cost | Generally ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, but can be up to $24,000 | Typically ranges from $3,500 to $8,000, with some cases reaching $20,000 |
Surgical Procedure
A full facelift involves longer incisions that are typically hidden along the hairline and behind the ears.[1] This allows the surgeon to tighten the deeper facial tissues and remove more excess skin.[1] The procedure takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to complete.
A mini facelift, also known as a short-scar facelift, utilizes smaller incisions, usually placed around the ears.[5] This technique is less invasive and focuses on tightening the skin and underlying tissues of the lower face.[3] The surgery time for a mini facelift is shorter, typically around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from a full facelift generally takes two to four weeks, with swelling and bruising lasting for a similar period. The results of a full facelift are more dramatic and can last for 10 to 15 years.[4]
The recovery period for a mini facelift is shorter, usually about one to two weeks.[4][3] Most patients can return to work within ten days.[5] The results of a mini facelift are more subtle than those of a full facelift and typically last for 5 to 10 years.[4]
Candidacy
The ideal candidate for a full facelift is typically someone in their 50s or older with significant sagging in the cheeks, jowls, and neck.[1] Those with less skin elasticity may also be better suited for a full facelift.[5]
A mini facelift is often recommended for patients in their 40s or early 50s who are experiencing mild to moderate sagging in the lower face.[1][5] It can also be an option for older patients who have had a previous facelift and are seeking a touch-up. The choice between a full and mini facelift should be made in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most appropriate procedure based on individual needs and goals.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 "loweplasticsurgery.com". Retrieved February 04, 2026.
- ↑ "drbasner.com". Retrieved February 04, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 "livhospital.com". Retrieved February 04, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 "cincyfacialplastics.com". Retrieved February 04, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 "zennplasticsurgery.com". Retrieved February 04, 2026.
