The signs of aging are difficult to conceal. The ones that show up on your face are even tougher to ignore. Thankfully, reversing the signs of facial aging is easier than ever. With cosmetic procedures such as facelifts now widely available, you can do more to eliminate the age-related blemishes that can compromise your appearance.
According to MedlinePlus, a facelift is a cosmetic procedure that specifically targets the skin on the face and neck. However, the aforementioned description fails to capture how diverse this particular surgery has become.
While consulting an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Joel Aronowitz, you may discover that different facelift options are now available. Your surgeon may specifically ask if you prefer a full or a mini facelift.
So, how do full and mini facelifts differ from each other? Discover the answer by continuing with the rest of this article.
Results Provided
The most significant difference between full and mini facelifts is evident in their results.
Unsurprisingly, the full facelifts deliver more impressive results. These procedures can change the appearance of skin all over your neck and face. They can restore the appearance of the skin around your neck, mouth, nose, eyes, and other parts of your face to provide complete revitalization.
Mini facelifts are not quite as comprehensive. According to Healthline, mini facelifts focus more on the skin covering the lower half of your face. They can restore the appearance of skin around your neck, jawline, and mouth but may not do anything for your other wrinkles.
Longevity of Results
Full and mini facelifts also differ in terms of how long they provide results.
A full facelift can offer results that last for more than a decade. You can invest money in that procedure and bank on a great return.
Notably, mini facelifts aren’t exactly temporary procedures either. Even on the low end, the anti-aging effects of a mini facelift should remain visible for two to three years. You can get that procedure and not have to worry about returning to the surgeon’s office for a while.
Ideal Patients
Both full and mini facelifts are suitable for patients who want to slow the signs of aging. That said, you may benefit more from a mini facelift if you use it as a preventative measure. Full facelifts are better reserved for patients already displaying more significant blemishes.
Speak to experts like Joel Aronowitz MD, to determine which procedure works best for your skin.
Recovery Time
Before deciding which procedure to get, you should also consider the recommended recovery times for full and mini facelifts.
Mini facelifts are recommended for patients with busy schedules. The suggested recovery time for a mini facelift is two to three days. Your incisions may not fully recover for a week, but you should be fit for work before then.
Complete recovery may take as long as three weeks for a full facelift. Given the lengthy downtime required, you may have to schedule some time off from work to ensure you can recover properly. Asking loved ones to help with your chores is also a good idea.
