Miniature Facelift

A miniature facelift is a minimally invasive surgical procedure meant to address the jowls, jawline, and lower cheek tissue. Miniature facelifts can have various names (e.g., short-scar facelift, S-lift, MACS lift, etc.), but not all surgeons perform their miniature facelift the same way. Dr. Sparano utilizes a short-scar technique which is hidden, and ends one-third the way up the back side of the ear. He performs a short skin flap elevation, but addresses the deeper SMAS tissue much like an ordinary facelift. This allows for a quicker recovery, with significant and enduring results.

Not every patient is a good candidate for miniature facelifting techniques. However, for the correct candidates, it is a relatively simple procedure yielding very pleasing results. It can be an effective solution to the problem of early jowling and laxity of the lower face, which can trouble patients as early as in their 40’s.

Miniature facelifts can be performed in an outpatient surgical center, or an office-based setting using oral sedation and local anesthesia. The associated “downtime” is about 7-10 days (i.e., 1 week less than Dr. Sparano’s deep-plane facelift or neck lift).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will a miniature facelift address the laxity of my neck tissues?
A miniature facelift is not the best operation to address loose tissue of the neck as it ages. There is a mild-moderate benefit at the neck. Patients who have minimal signs of aging at the neck, would demonstrate a more noticeable improvement. Otherwise, a dedicated neck lift would be the preferred procedure.

Am I too young or old for a miniature facelift?
The age of a patient is not the primary determinant of candidacy or timing for a miniature facelift. Whether a patient is a candidate depends on the relative anatomy of the tissues of the lower face and neck. Dr. Sparano reviews these details with each patient during his private consultation

What is recovery like after a miniature facelift?
Miniature facelifts have less bruising and swelling than more advanced operations. Bruising is usually gone by the end of the first week. Swelling usually diminishes over the first 7-10 days. Patients are advised to relax and avoid strain or exercise during the first 2 weeks following surgery.

How much time off from work should I plan for after a miniature facelift?
Patients will need to schedule time off from work, and are usually advised to take between 1-2 weeks off.

How soon can I return to exercise after a facelift?
Exercise and strenuous work or activity should be avoided for 2 weeks.

When will my stitches be removed after a facelift?
Stitches are generally removed on the 7th post-operative day.