Mini Facelift vs Full Facelift: What's the difference?

The difference between mini facelift and full facelift boils down to three factors: age, incision placement, and recovery time.

Mini facelift incisions may start high or just below, extend to the back of the earlobe, and include a small additional incision that hides well.

Full facelift incisions start high, go around the front of the ear to the back of the ear, and extend to the back of the hairline.

Full facelift is indicated when there is significant skin laxity that needs to be raised and removed.

Mini facelift can be performed on Thursday or Friday with patients returning to work by Monday or Tuesday (3-4 day recovery).

Mini facelift produces minimal bruising.

Mini facelift is best suited for patients aged 40 to 60 years old.

The choice between mini and full facelift depends on skin elasticity and contractile ability.

Full facelift patients have reduced skin contractability and elasticity that has been lost over time.

Full facelift recovery takes approximately one week to 10 days.