Refined Facial Rejuvenation with Minimal Downtime
The Mini Facelift, also known as the S-Lift or Short-Scar Facelift, is a modern facial rejuvenation procedure designed for patients who want natural-looking improvement in early to moderate facial aging without undergoing a full facelift. This technique focuses on lifting the lower face and jawline using shorter incisions, offering subtle, elegant results with faster recovery and minimal scarring.
It is an ideal solution for individuals who are beginning to notice sagging in the cheeks, jowls, and jawline but do not yet require a full facelift.
Overview of the Mini Facelift (S-Lift / Short-Scar)
The mini facelift targets the lower face and jawline and involves tightening the skin and the underlying SMAS layer through short, carefully placed incisions around the ear.
This procedure can:
- Improve mild to moderate sagging in the cheeks and jowls
- Sharpen the jawline
- Reduce early signs of facial aging
- Restore a fresher, more youthful appearance
- Deliver natural results without an over-pulled look
- Provide faster recovery compared to a traditional facelift
Because the incisions are shorter and the dissection is limited, the mini facelift is less invasive and ideal for patients seeking refreshment rather than dramatic change.
Preparation Before Surgery
Proper preparation is essential to ensure safety and optimal results.
Pre-operative preparation typically includes:
- Full medical history and physical examination
- Blood tests and medical clearance (if required)
- Facial analysis and surgical planning
- Review of medications and supplements
- Stopping smoking at least 2–4 weeks before surgery
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements
- Planning recovery time and post-operative support
Your surgeon will explain the procedure, expected results, limitations, recovery timeline, and potential risks in detail.
The Surgical Procedure
Mini facelift surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia and typically takes 1.5–3 hours.
The procedure generally involves:
- Short, Hidden Incisions
Incisions are placed around the front of the ear and follow natural skin creases to minimize visible scarring. - SMAS Tightening
The surgeon tightens the underlying SMAS layer to improve facial support and contour. - Skin Redraping
The skin is gently repositioned without excessive tension. - Closure
Excess skin is removed and the incisions are closed with fine sutures.
The result is a cleaner jawline, smoother lower face, and refreshed appearance.
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Recovery from a mini facelift is generally faster and easier than a full facelift.
What to expect:
- Mild to moderate swelling and bruising for 7–14 days
- Mild discomfort or tightness
- Sutures removal in 5–10 days
- Return to light activities in 5–7 days
- Return to normal activities in 2–3 weeks
- Final results continue to refine over 1–3 months
Post-operative care includes:
- Keeping the head elevated
- Using cold compresses
- Taking prescribed medications
- Avoiding heavy exercise and sun exposure
- Attending scheduled follow-up visits
Possible Risks & Complications
The mini facelift is generally safe when performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon, but as with any surgery, some risks exist.
Possible risks include:
- Swelling and bruising
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Temporary numbness
- Asymmetry
- Scarring
- Skin healing issues
- Unsatisfactory aesthetic result (rare)
Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon significantly reduces these risks.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
- Patients with early to moderate facial aging
- Those with mild sagging in the jawline and cheeks
- Patients who want natural results with shorter downtime
- Individuals who are not yet ready for a full facelift
The Mini Facelift (S-Lift / Short-Scar Facelift) is an excellent option for patients who want subtle, elegant facial rejuvenation with minimal scarring and faster recovery. When performed by a skilled surgeon, it delivers natural, refreshed results while preserving your unique facial identity.
