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This surgery targets the lower third of the face by restructuring the tissues to resolve excess skin along the jawline and upper neck. This approach may be appropriate for younger clients who are experiencing early signs of facial aging rather than those with more extreme facial sagging and drooping, who will require a more comprehensive surgery. 

What is a mini facelift?

This procedure addresses loose skin on the lower face, jowls, and a sagging jawline. The surgical approach allows for shorter incisions and a faster recovery, typically in days, not weeks, creating a youthful, refined jawline.

This surgical treatment is often recommended for clients in their mid to late 40’s who are experiencing the early stages of facial aging and want to maintain a younger, fresh look for as long as possible. Candidates may include celebrities who are always in the limelight or regular people who choose to look their best. Some clients who have very resilient skin in their 50’s or 60’s may be candidates for a mini facelift. At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, every facial procedure is 100 percent customized to match the facial condition and aesthetic desires of the individual. 

Why choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery?

You may take good care of yourself, eat a nutritious diet, apply sunscreen and high-quality moisturizer, and still experience the early signs of facial aging. For nearly three decades, Dr. George Moynihan, M.D. has been one of Chicago’s premier facial plastic surgeons, leading complex facial reconstructive surgeries and correcting aesthetic issues of the face and neck. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Loyola University Medical Center and Rush University Medical Center and is known for his artistry, professionalism, and expertise in performing mini facelift surgeries. Dr. Moynihan was educated at Villanova, Loyola, and the elite Rousso Facial Plastic Surgery Center. He is double-board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).

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Before & After Facelift Photos

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Superior personalized care, with privacy and discretion

Your journey will be under the care of a team of extraordinary medical professionals, each of whom is passionate about delivering a superior patient experience from start to finish. All treatments are performed in privacy, with discretion, in a state-of-the-art, AAAASF-certified surgical center in downtown Chicago. Gold Coast Plastic Surgery is an ideal choice for discerning clients who want natural-looking outcomes.

What can a mini facelift do?

A mini facelift can tighten and smooth the following facial areas:

  • Jowls
  • Sagging jawline
  • Sagging skin on the lower face
  • Lines and creases on the lower face
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What is the recovery time from a mini facelift?

You can expect some bruising and swelling for a short period, and any discomfort can be managed with prescription pain medication. Your stitches will be removed in about one week, and you should feel ready for the “reveal” in about ten days. When under the care of Dr. Moynihan, you can expect extraordinarily natural-looking results. His precision surgical techniques are geared to create a result that does not appear to be the result of surgery – the ideal everyone hopes for! We don’t mind if your friends and colleagues are confused about how you manage to look so young, and neither will you! Your secret is safe with us.

What can I expect from the procedure?

This surgery involves intravenous sedation rather than general anesthesia in most cases. A small incision is placed near the ear, through which the tissues are lifted and repaired. Another incision may be placed beneath the chin to treat excess skin or fat tissue below the chin or on the upper neck. Clients who are good candidates for this approach will not need work performed on the underlying muscles, and the cheeks are not addressed. Once the surgery is complete, the incisions are closed, and the area is covered with surgical dressings. Once alert, you are free to return home to rest and recover, accompanied by another adult. 

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FAQ Mini Facelift

How Does A Mini Facelift Differ From A Traditional Facelift?

What Are The Benefits Of A Mini Facelift?

How Long Do The Results Of A Mini Facelift Last?

Am I Too Young For A Mini Facelift?

Can A Mini Facelift Be Combined With Other Procedures?

How Soon Can I Wear Makeup After A Mini Facelift?

Will I Have Visible Scars After A Mini Facelift?

How Do I Prepare For A Mini Facelift?

How Soon Can I Resume Exercising After A Mini Facelift?

How Do I Know If A Mini Facelift Is Right For Me?

How Does A Mini Facelift Differ From A Traditional Facelift?

A mini facelift focuses on the lower third of the face, addressing early signs of aging like jowls and a sagging jawline. It involves smaller incisions, a less invasive approach, and a shorter recovery time compared to a traditional facelift, which targets more significant facial aging.

What Are The Benefits Of A Mini Facelift?

A mini facelift offers several benefits, including:

  • A more youthful and defined jawline
  • Reduced appearance of jowls and sagging skin
  • Shorter incisions, resulting in minimal scarring
  • Faster recovery compared to a full facelift
  • A natural, refreshed appearance

How Long Do The Results Of A Mini Facelift Last?

The results of a mini facelift typically last 5-10 years, depending on factors like your skin’s elasticity, genetics, and lifestyle choices. Regular skincare and maintenance treatments can help extend the longevity of your results.

Am I Too Young For A Mini Facelift?

A mini facelift is ideal for individuals in their 40s to early 50s who start noticing early signs of aging. Younger patients with good skin elasticity can benefit from this procedure to maintain a youthful appearance for years to come.

Can A Mini Facelift Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, a mini facelift can be combined with procedures like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), facial fat grafting, or non-surgical treatments like BOTOX and fillers to enhance overall facial rejuvenation.

How Soon Can I Wear Makeup After A Mini Facelift?

You can usually apply makeup about 7-10 days after the procedure, once the incisions have healed sufficiently and any significant swelling or bruising has subsided.

Will I Have Visible Scars After A Mini Facelift?

The incisions for a mini facelift are small and strategically placed near the ears or beneath the chin. These scars typically fade and become barely noticeable with proper care and time.

How Do I Prepare For A Mini Facelift?

Preparation includes avoiding smoking, alcohol, and certain medications that may increase bleeding. To optimize your results, Dr. Moynihan will provide personalized instructions, including skincare routines and dietary recommendations.

How Soon Can I Resume Exercising After A Mini Facelift?

You should avoid strenuous exercise for at least three weeks after surgery. Light activities like walking can be resumed sooner, but always follow Dr. Moynihan’s specific post-operative instructions.

How Do I Know If A Mini Facelift Is Right For Me?

A consultation with Dr. Moynihan is the best way to determine if you’re a good candidate. Generally, a mini facelift is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate signs of aging who want a natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

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