A mini facelift is relatively new technique in the cosmetic surgery industry. It is also known as the weekend facelift owing to its short recovery time. As compared to the traditional facelift the procedure is fairly quick, as it helps enhance only specific facial areas. A mini facelift generally is best for reduction of sagging skin around the jawline, cheeks and neck. It is also more economical and safer as compared to the conventional facelift approach. It is ideal for people who have just begun to experience the signs of aging and may not be eligible for a complete facelift yet. However, it is best to talk to your cosmetic surgeon as to what kind of facelift would be ideal to enhance your face.
An outpatient surgery
Mini facelift surgery can last from anywhere between 2 to 3 hours. You will be asked to go home the same day, so make sure you bring someone along who can drive you home after the surgery as you will have slight discomfort and pain. Make sure you get plenty of rest after you get home, at least for 2-3 days after the procedure. Make sure you are not too active as your body is still healing and avoid smoking and alcohol at all costs since they will hinder the natural healing process. Make sure you add fresh fruits and plenty of vegetables to your diet and drink plenty of fluids. Follow a daily incision care routine as well as other post-op instructions given by your cosmetic surgeon.
What to expect?
There will be some amount of discomfort and pain in the first 2-3 days, even though you may be under pain killers after which it will reduce as the days go by. You may experience bruising, swelling and a feeling of tightness of your skin for about one or two weeks following the mini facelift surgery. The neck area takes a longer time to heal which is normally between two to four weeks. Due to the swelling your face may look different, so be patient to see the final result which may sometimes take up to 3 months.
Advice by plastic surgeon for recovery
You may be advised by your cosmetic surgeon to use a cold compress to help minimize the swelling and for relief from the discomfort. Make sure you call your cosmetic surgeon if you have increased swelling, bleeding or redness along the incision; if you develop temperature over 100.4 degrees or have any side-effects from the medication.
Getting back to normal
Most plastic surgeries will require a certain amount of downtime – both social and occupational. Dr. Eugene Kim, a double board-certified plastic surgeon who serves patients in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Hollywood and Los Angeles, California says most of the cosmetic procedures require taking a break from work if the job involves strenuous activities. Until the sutures are removed it is a good idea to avoid social events. If you have to meet people, you can wear scarves or high-collared blouses to conceal the bruises and swelling.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
