Dermal Fillers or a Mini Facelift? Which Is Right for You?

Remember once upon a time when someone “got work” on their face it appeared as though their face had been flattened by plastic wrap?

That was back in the earlier days of plastic surgery where drastic pulling and tightening were the only game in town. Fortunately, things have changed.

If you’re starting to experience decreased skin laxity in your face, you’re not relegated to a full facelift. You may be able to get by with dermal fillers or a mini facelift.

What Is a Mini Facelift?

A mini facelift is similar to a full facelift, but it’s a modified version. A traditional facelift is comprehensive and covers the entirety of the face. Meanwhile, a mini facelift focuses on eliminating loose and sagging skin and deep creases in the mid/lower part of the face and jawline.

Yes, it is still a surgical procedure. There isn’t as much tightening and lifting as in a traditional facelift though. And the procedure still effectively smooths wrinkles and restores elasticity. Plus, it’s a lower-risk procedure than a full facelift and with a shorter downtime for recovery.

The Mini Facelift Procedure

A mini facelift is considered invasive surgery. Even so, it is less invasive than a full facelift and there is minimal scarring. Plus, it can be performed as an outpatient procedure. You will be under local or twilight anesthesia for a mini facelift.

The procedure typically takes around two and a half hours during which time, the plastic surgeon makes small incisions in the hairline, around the upper portion of the ear, then circles to the earlobe. Underlying muscle and tissue are repositioned through this opening and excess loose skin is removed. A layered suturing technique is used to minimize scarring.

Are You a Good Candidate?

As with any surgery, the first requirement is that you are in relatively good health. Of almost equal importance is that you should have realistic expectations about the results.

That being said, a mini facelift is often recommended for those who have just started to notice decreased skin laxity and have mild to moderate skin sagging and wrinkles. It’s also effective in removing excess skin for those who have recently lost weight.

While many patients wait until they are in their 40s or 50s to consider a mini facelift, if there is enough significant sagging before that age, a plastic surgeon may recommend it.

On the other hand, if you do not qualify for surgery because of health reasons or are apprehensive about going under the knife, you may benefit from dermal fillers.

Could Dermal Fillers Be a Better Choice?

Some patients are more comfortable with a noninvasive option such as a dermal filler. It’s important to understand though that a dermal filler will not garner the same results for patients whose sagging and wrinkles are more advanced. But it could be a great place to start.

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin. They smooth lines, soften creases, and restore volume to enhance your facial contours. There is no downtime with fillers, but the results aren’t as long-lasting as surgical options. Therefore, you’d need to return for treatments.

Today, most fillers are made with the body’s natural compound hyaluronic acid which is found in the skin and cartilage. It typically dissolves within 12 to 24 months. Some injectables contain the mineral calcium hydroxylapatite which is a mineral that’s found in the bones. These fillers last closer to 18 months.

Still Confused About Which Way to Go?

When deciding between dermal fillers or a mini facelift, you may still be floundering. That’s understandable. It’s a big decision.

Fortunately, you don’t have to make it on your own.

Contact us today to set up a free consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon. You can feel confident in his experience and expertise to guide you on the path that’s tailor-made just for you.