Mini Facelift

Mini Facelift

The main difference between a full facelift (see Facelift) and a mini facelift is that mini facelift has a shorter scar. In a full facelift, the incision starts from the hairline in the temple, continues downward around the ear, then crosses the skin behind the ear, and ends in the  hairline at the back of the head. In mini facelift, which is also known as short-scar facelift, the incision skin begins in the temporal hairline, continues in front of the ear and stops at the earlobe. This incision technique will ensure the scar is hidden beneath the hairline and within the natural creases of the skin.

Mini facelift utilises advanced SMAS lift technique that can effectively lift and rejuvenate he lower two thirds of the face. A mini facelift is able to lift  the saggy skin around the cheeks, nasolabial fold (also known as laughing line), jowl, and the jawline. The surgery can provide excellent and long-lasting results to patients with mild to moderate of facial laxity.

Except for the most severe cases, short scar facelift is an excellent alternative to a standard facelift. The advantages of short scar facelift are short incision, shorter operation time, faster recovery,  without a scar behind the ear, and a lower cost.

For patients with a lot of excess skin, a full facelift is a better option.

Preparation

1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.

      2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.

      3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery:

         1. Medicine that increases bleeding during surgery such as aspirin, NSAIDs and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medicine before you stop them.

         2. All supplements that contain vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil and other ingredients that increase bleeding during surgery. Other supplements, traditional medicine and herbs in which ingredients are unknown have to be stopped as well.

      4. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body.

Surgery

Duration: 2-3 hours

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia.

Hospitalization: not required.

Recovery*: Back to work in 3-7 days, light exercise after 2 weeks, heavy exercise after 3-4 weeks. * The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Surgery Technique*:

Skin incision begins in the temporal hairline, continues in front of the ear and stops at the earlobe. There is no scar behind the ear. The surgeon mobilises and lift the SMAS using various techniques including the MACS or SMAS resection technique. At the end of the surgery, the skin is re-draped over the SMAS, and any excess skin is removed.

Post-operative Care**

1. 1. 1. What to expect:

         1. Swelling usually peaks on the second to third day after surgery and will gradually subside after that. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.

         2. Surface contour of the face may appearance uneven during the early postoperative period but will gradually improve and subside after a few weeks.

         3. A suction drain may be inserted to remove blood and tissue fluid from the wound. The drain is removed after one to two days.

         4. Wear compression garment for 2-3 weeks

      2. General care

         1. Apply cold pack first 3 days and warm pack after that. Elevate the head during sleep to reduce swelling.

         2. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.

         3. Adequate rest and sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         4. Sleep on the back. Avoid sleeping on one side to prevent pressure on the face.

         5. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller as prescribed when necessary.

      4. Wound care: Clean the wound with a clean cotton tip soaked with sterile water/saline. Apply antibiotic ointment.

      5. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activity and exercise for at least one month.

      6. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for suture removal and review.

      7. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, immediately contact the clinic/doctor for advice.

** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.