Differences Between a Full Facelift and Mid Facelift in Miami, FL

Most people considering a procedure as drastic as a facelift do research before undergoing the procedure. It doesn’t take long to realize that there are many variations of the facelift procedure available, and you don’t always have to “go big or go home.” The full facelift is traditionally what comes to mind when we think about the procedure, but many cosmetic surgery practices now offer what is known as a mid facelift, a less extensive alternative. Below are three differences between the two procedures to help determine which is right for you.

Areas Treated

The main detail that distinguishes a full facelift from a mid facelift is the area of the face that is treated in each procedure. The goal of a full facelift is to reverse sagging cheeks, excess skin at the lower jawline, and deepening folds of skin as a result of the natural aging process. While mid facelift procedures also aim to turn back the clock, they only target the middle third area of the face, such as the cheeks and the eyes, which is more likely to be seen in younger individuals.

Recovery Time

One of the biggest reasons patients choose a mid facelift procedure over a full facelift is the lessened recovery time it allows. The mid facelift treats a smaller area of the face and therefore, Dr. Lewen is able to perform this procedure through very small incisions or even endoscopically. Since mid facelifts are less invasive than their more extensive counterparts, patients typically resume normal activities sooner.

Longevity

Most patients that are considering a facelift procedure wonder how long their results are expected to last. This is yet another factor to consider when deciding between facelift procedures, as the answer changes, depending on the extent of the procedure. The mid facelift yields results that can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. In contrast, the effects of a full facelift procedure are more dramatic and may still be seen for up to 15 years due to the extensiveness of the procedure.

Schedule Your Consultation

Lewen Cosmetic Center’s double board-certified plastic surgeon, Gregory D. Lewen, M.D., is South Florida’s leading plastic surgeon for mid-facelift procedures. If you live in Miami, Aventura, or the surrounding area, Dr. Lewen and his friendly team invite you to contact them with any questions regarding your mid facelift procedure.