Aging is a process that all Houston men and women will go through, but that doesn’t mean we have to accept the loose and sagging skin, sunken cheeks and fine lines and wrinkles that often come with getting older. Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Craig is a Yale trained, board certified professional with years of experience in facial rejuvenation procedures. One of the most common facial surgeries she now performs on Houston patients is a mini facelift – a lighter, less invasive plastic surgery ideal for Houston men and women who are beginning to show the signs of aging but aren’t quite yet ready to undergo a full facelift. 

What is a Mini Facelift?

If you’re just beginning to show the signs of aging, but want to maintain a youthful, more energetic look, then a mini facelift just may be the right plastic surgery for you. This procedure addresses many of the signs of aging that Houston men and women first begin displaying in their 30s and 40s, including:

  • Sagging facial skin;
  • Jowls around the neck

A mini facelift is a shorter plastic surgery procedure, uses smaller incisions that are hidden behind the ear or in the hairline to prevent scarring on the face, is less invasive overall, and takes less recovery time than a traditional facelift.

How is a Mini Facelift Performed?

A mini facelift is performed much like a traditional facelift. It is just a more subtle, gentler procedure. First, Dr. Fusi and Dr. Craig will make small incisions behind your ears or in your hairline, from which they:

  • Pull and tighten the mid-facial skin;
  • Reduce sagging in the mid-facial area;
  • Minimize fine lines and wrinkles; and
  • Reposition fatty deposits in the face.

What are the Benefits of a Mini Facelift?

Houston patients who undergo a mini facelift experience several benefits, including:

  • A more youthful, energetic appearance;
  • Increased self-confidence; and
  • Postponement of a traditional facelift for several years.

Am I a Candidate for a Mini Facelift?

You may know that you’re ready for facial rejuvenation, but it can be difficult for Houston patients to know whether they are candidates for a mini facelift or a traditional facelift. During a consultation with Drs. Fusi and Craig, they will examine your face and neck, listen to your desired results, and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs and desires.

Additionally, our doctors will pre-screen you for a mini facelift or traditional facelift eligibility by ensuring that you meet the following criteria:

  • You are in good medical and psychological health and have no serious medical or mental health conditions;
  • You are a non-smoker, or at least agree to quit smoking the two weeks before and after your mini facelift or traditional facelift procedure to reduce the risk of surgical complications and enable a smoother recovery;
  • You have friends or family who can help you recover at home; and
  • You have realistic expectations for your Houston mini facelift or facelift procedure.

How is a Mini Facelift Different from a Traditional Facelift?

While a mini facelift is considered a “lighter” surgery, a traditional facelift is much more invasive. Granted, there is no magic formula for facelifts and every procedure is unique, but traditional facelifts typically include more in-depth procedures to lift the skin, restore lost volume and remove deep creases and folds.

What Can I Expect on the Day of My Houston Mini Facelift?

Many Houston mini facelift patients are curious what the day of their surgery will be like. In general, you’ll fast for your surgery beginning at midnight the night before your procedure. You’ll receive general anesthesia to put you comfortably asleep for your mini facelift. Overall, the surgery typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on the amount of work being performed. After you awaken from your surgery, you will rest in a recovery room until you are ready to be discharged to recover at your home.

Inquiring About a Mini Facelift

If you are interested in a mini facelift, don’t delay. Call Dr. Fusi and Dr. Craig to schedule a consultation at (203) 458-4444.