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Aging occurs incrementally, and in the early stages, a mini facelift can help combat unwanted changes in the jowls, jawline, and lower cheeks. During the procedure, excess skin, tissue, and fat are removed to create a more youthful-looking countenance and restore a positive image that is flattering and attractive. Dr. Anthony applies a nuanced, sophisticated approach to ensure natural beauty and elegance.

What is a mini facelift?

A traditional facelift focuses on increasing definition in the jawline, reducing lines and wrinkles, reversing jowling, and addressing sagging in the cheeks and midface. A mini facelift pursues many of these same goals but is more concerned with the lower third of the face and is considered a less invasive version of rhytidectomy. Because of its shorter scars, reduced bleeding, and faster recovery time, many busy clients select the mini facelift to help them look and feel better without excessive downtime.

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How is the procedure performed?

The surgeon will perform a mini faclift by creating small incisions within the folds of the ear that stretch into the hairline. Through these openings, the doctor will then reduce sagging skin, tightening the jawline and jowls. Wrinkles and lines will be smoothed, and the underlying muscles will be addressed. The total procedure time is around 2-4 hours.

    What are the advantages of a mini facelift?

    • Minimal side effects or discomfort
    • Smaller incisions and reduced scarring
    • Expedited recovery
    • Less invasive than a full facelift
    • Short procedure time
    • Cost-effective
    • Few restrictions before surgery
    • Can make you look up to 10 years younger
    • Long-lasting results from 5-10 years
    • Enhances self-confidence
    • Natural-looking outcome

    Who makes a good candidate for the procedure?

    Suitable candidates for a mini facelift are frustrated with sagging skin in the lower face and have not found relief through non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers or ultherapy. While aging and hormonal shifts are major factors leading to the pursuit of a mini facelift, some clients may be genetically predisposed to poor jawline definition and may need the surgery in younger years. Candidates should be non-smokers who are mentally and physically stable and are free from any significant health concerns. They should have a positive, realistic attitude towards their results based on an in-depth consultation with Dr. Anthony.

    What can I expect from my recovery?

    Most clients can get back to work within the first week after their procedure, provided their job is not physically taxing. Swelling and bruising will resolve within a few weeks at most. The doctor will provide you with pain medications and a complete aftercare plan. It’s important that you avoid strenuous activities for about three weeks, but gentle walks early on can help promote circulation and can elevate your mood. Dr. Anthony will see you for follow-up visits to monitor your recovery.

    How much does a mini facelift cost?

    Pricing for a mini facelift ranges depending on the extent of the work performed. Costs are based on the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, facility fees, and others. Dr. Anthony will provide a personalized quote for services at the time of your initial consultation.

    Because a mini facelift is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and not a medical necessity, insurance will not usually cover it. We do provide financing options, however, such as Alphaeon Credit, Prosper Healthcare Lending, and CareCredit. 

    Why choose Dr. Anthony?

    Dr. James Anthony is a technically masterful, board-certified plastic surgeon who delivers superior mini facelift results to clients in San Francisco, the Bay Area, and beyond. With over two decades of expertise under his belt, Dr. Anthony is able to create beautiful, natural-looking changes that improve your confidence and quality of life without sacrificing your facial spontaneity. 

    Dr. Anthony obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from Stony Brook University, going on to complete a demanding general surgery residency at the New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. He pursued an additional plastic surgery residency at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and is currently board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Anthony was named among the “Best Doctors in the San Francisco Bay Area” by San Francisco magazine.

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    Mini Facelift FAQ

    How can I avoid an unnatural-looking result?

    The most important decision you will make when pursuing a mini facelift is choosing your plastic surgeon. Dr. Anthony has extensive experience performing facial surgery and will use his skill, knowledge, and artistry to deliver nuanced results that seamlessly improve your appearance without pulling the skin or making you look like the proverbial deer in the headlights.

    What are the limitations of a mini facelift?

    While a mini facelift can help you to look more attractive, the face will continue to age over time. Dr. Anthony performs the surgery in a way that will support age-related changes. He can also pair facelift surgery with fat transfer to enhance your results and increase their longevity.

    How can I maintain my mini facelift results?

    It’s of vital importance that you wear sunblock to protect your skin from harmful UV rays after your procedure. Wearing a wide-brimmed sun hat can also help to preserve the youthfulness of your skin. Using a moisturizer every day can help keep your complexion firm and hydrated. Another part of maintaining your results is your lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising, meditating, and sleeping well can all have immense benefits in terms of your appearance. It goes without saying that smoking can undo all the positive changes made by your mini facelift surgery, speeding up the aging process and posing significant health risks.

    How can I best prepare for my mini facelift?

    The first step is to undergo a detailed consultation with Dr. Anthony. He will perform a physical evaluation of your face and skin and review your medical history. Once your surgery is scheduled, you can enlist the help of a friend or family member to drive you home and assist you with basic chores and tasks for the first 24 hours. While recovery from a mini facelift is not as extensive or involved as it is for a full facelift, it’s still important that you rest and not put any undue pressure on your body during the first week after surgery.

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