A mini facelift, aka “weekend facelift”, is a less invasive surgical procedure to rejuvenate the lower face and jawline. It has become popular among those who do not want the time, cost or scarring associated with a full facelift. Below, we will explain the mini facelift procedure, risks, recovery and the typical costs of a mini face lift. We will also look at the differences between a traditional facelift in Turkey and the mini facelift surgery.
What a Mini Facelift Does (and What It Doesn’t)
A mini facelift focuses on rejuvenating the lower third of the face — primarily the jawline, jowls, and lower cheeks. Over time, loss of collagen, and changes in fat distribution lead to sagging skin, and a less defined jaw contour. A facelift tightens the skin and deletes the signs of the ageing process.
The main goal of a mini facelift is to:
- Lift and tighten mild to moderate sagging skin in the lower face.
- Restore a sharper, more youthful jawline by addressing early jowling.
- Smooth the marionette lines and lower folds of the face and neck.
- Create a refreshed, natural look without the “overdone” appearance.
As the surgery focuses on the lower face, it does not address significant sagging in the mid-face area. Mini lift surgery also does not remove excess skin or muscle banding in the neck. These issues usually require a full facelift or neck lift. This procedure cannot address issues related to skin quality, such as fine wrinkles or pigmentation.
In short, a mini facelift is ideal for individuals displaying early to moderate signs of ageing. It provides significant rejuvenation without the need for extensive surgery, bruising and swelling.
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Technique and Surgical Approach
A mini facelift uses shorter, more discreet incisions than a traditional facelift. These small cuts are usually hidden in the natural creases around the ears. They may extend slightly into the hairline, making scars barely noticeable once healed.
Through these incisions, the plastic surgeon carefully lifts and tightens the underlying facial structure known as the SMAS. This superficial musculoaponeurotic system is the layer of tissue that gives the face its shape and firmness.
The surgeon then repositions and secures these deeper tissues to lift the lower face, rather than just pulling the skin tighter. If needed, small amounts of fat around the jawline or under the chin can be removed or reshaped to create a smoother contour. Finally, the skin is gently redraped to achieve natural, balanced results without tension or distortion.
Because the mini facelift is less invasive, it typically takes one to two hours to complete. It can often be performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation, which reduces risks associated with general anesthesia. Most patients experience less swelling, bruising, and downtime, returning to normal activities much sooner than after a full facelift.
To further improve the final results, surgeons may combine a mini facelift with additional treatments. These may include chin liposuction, laser or radiofrequency skin tightening, brow lifts, or dermal fillers. These treatments help to achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance overall by making subtle refinements.
Results and Longevity
A mini facelift produces a noticeable but subtle rejuvenation, restoring youthful definition without dramatically altering natural features. Patients often describe the outcome as looking “refreshed” or “well-rested” rather than surgically altered.
- Duration of results: typically 3 to 10 years, depending on individual factors.
- Longevity depends on: Age and skin elasticity at the time of surgery. Quality of the SMAS tightening technique used. Lifestyle factors (sun exposure, smoking, weight changes). Ongoing skincare and maintenance treatments.
Mini Facelift vs. Traditional Facelift: What’s the Difference?
Both procedures aim to rejuvenate the face, but a mini facelift and a traditional facelift differ. Understanding these differences helps patients choose the right option for their individual needs.
A mini facelift is for people showing early signs of aging, such as mild sagging around the jawline. It uses shorter incisions, typically placed around the natural creases of the ear and sometimes into the hairline. Because the incisions are smaller and the adjustments are more targeted, the procedure is less invasive. Most patients return to their normal routine within one to two weeks, enjoying a refreshed and natural look that can last several years.
In contrast, a full facelift addresses more advanced signs of aging across the mid-face, lower face, and neck. The incisions are longer — from the temples, around the ears — allowing the surgeon to reposition deeper structures. This cosmetic surgery provides more dramatic and longer-lasting results, typically lasting 10 years or more. However, it involves a longer surgery, general anesthesia, and a few weeks of downtime for full recovery.
Both can deliver beautiful, natural results when performed by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon. Many patients view the mini facelift as a preventive or maintenance procedure. While the traditional facelift offers a comprehensive transformation for more advanced aging concerns.
How to Evaluate Turkish Clinics - Practical Checklist
- Surgeon credentials: ask for the operating surgeon’s name, and years of facelift experience.
- Clinic accreditation & facility level: ask whether surgery will occur in a licensed surgical center.
- Transparent pricing & package details: get a quote with surgeon fees, anaesthesia, and costs.
- Aftercare & follow-up: who performs post-op checks? what emergency plan exists?
- Independent reviews & before/after photos: look at independent platforms (Trustpilot, WhatClinic).
- Language & communication: ensure fluent English (or your language) for informed consent.
Typical Patient Journey
- Initial online consultation: exchange photos, get surgeon recommendation and quote.
- Pre-op checks: blood tests, sometimes imaging, and in-person consultation on arrival. Many clinics bundle 7–10 day stays to allow immediate follow-up. Book flexible return flights — most surgeons advise staying at least one week post-op for a mini lift (some prefer longer).
- Surgery day and early recovery: one night in clinic/hospital is common. Swelling/bruising peaks in the first 48–72 hours. Suture removal time varies (often ~1 week).
- Follow-up & travel home: a surgeon check for side effects before departure is critical. Confirm emergency contact for after you fly home.
FAQs
What exactly is a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is usually carried out as a day case procedure, meaning patients can go home on the same day. It is a smaller, less invasive version of a traditional facelift, targeting the lower part of the face. It lifts sagging skin and tightens the underlying tissue, restoring youthful definition.
Who is the best candidate for a mini facelift?
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Absolutely. Many people combine it with buccal fat removal, eyelid surgery, or dermal fillers to achieve a balanced rejuvenation. Your surgeon will recommend a plastic surgery plan tailored to your goals.
Why do patients choose Turkey for a mini facelift?
Turkey has become a leading destination for aesthetic surgery thanks to highly skilled surgeons, modern clinics, and affordable prices. At Cosmedica Aesthetic, patients benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, international patient care services, and comprehensive treatment packages.