Patients in the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas including Salem, Blacksburg, Lynchburg and West Virginia, come to the Center for Plastic Surgery at Ridgewood Hill for mini-facelifts, as a way to make significant facial corrections without major downtime.
What is the Difference Between a Mini Facelift and a Standard Facelift?
A mini facelift is a “mini” version of a standard facelift and focuses only on the jawline and neck areas. The mini facelift procedure can be adjusted to each patient’s needs, so the incisions may vary from a short incision around the ear, to almost the same as a standard facelift. A mini facelift can be done in the office with the patient awake, whereas a standard facelift is done in the OR.
Benefits of a Mini Facelift
While similar to a standard facelift, a mini facelift offers patients the following benefits:
- Possibly less scarring
- Quick recovery with little downtime
- Improvement in the neck and jawline.
- A fresh, more youthful appearance
How is a Mini Facelift Performed?
Most mini facelifts can be done in the office with the patient awake but sedated. The incisions can vary from just around the ear to extending in to the sideburn and posterior hairline and under the chin. This depends on the amount of loose skin we are addressing. Just like a standard facelift, the underlying tissue is tightened, excess fat removed from the neck, and the excess skin is removed.
Preparing for a Mini Facelift
- Stop smoking and the use of all nicotine products at least two weeks prior to the surgery
- Stop taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, vitamins and supplements two weeks prior to surgery
- Make at-home preparations for post-surgery recovery
- Arrange for someone to transport you to and from the procedure, stay with you that day and night, and bring you back the following day for dressing removal
Mini Facelift Recovery
Following the procedure, you will have a big dressing wrapped around your head. This will be removed the following day. You will need to keep your head elevated and avoid bending over, strenuous exercise or anything that makes your face flush for two weeks. Most patients feel better in a few days and return to work in one to two weeks. Bruising, which can often be hidden, is mainly in your neck and the sides of your face. This can take three to four weeks to fully resolve.
Mini Facelift Results
The results from a mini facelift can be dramatic or subtle, depending on how loose your neck skin is prior to the procedure. The results can last for many years but heredity, smoking, sun exposure and natural aging play a role in how soon your skin may loosen. This is a procedure that can be repeated.
How much does a Mini Facelift Cost?
The cost of a mini facelift varies with the extent of the procedure. During the consultation, Dr. Wray will discuss the cost and payment options including financing, cash, check, most major credit cards including VISA®, MasterCard® and Discover®. We offer financing through CareCredit®. Payment in full is required prior to the procedure.
“So helpful! She spent several minutes on the phone with me and answered all my questions. Very sweet and polite.” Submitted 2/15/2013
Why Choose Dr. Wray?
Dr. Wray is well versed in the latest technological advances, and strives to ensure that patients get the quality and personalized care they deserve.
- Over 25 years of experience performing plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures
- The only female board-certified plastic surgeon in the Roanoke Valley area
- Thoroughly answers questions & designs personalized treatment plans
- Experienced and caring staff makes patients feel welcome and comfortable
What Should I Expect from My Consultation?
Following an evaluation of your medical history, health and physical exam, Dr. Wray will address your concerns and goals and answer all your questions. Your satisfaction is a top priority and her goal is to make sure you are educated about options and possible procedures.
Dr.Carol Wray is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and offers aesthetic plastic surgery and other in-office nonsurgical cosmetic procedures for the residents in the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas including Salem, Blacksburg, Lynchburg and West Virginia. Please contact us to schedule your consultation.
