However, the following are some possible risks and side effects potential patients need to be aware of -

• Infections. These are rare and most surgeons usually provide antibiotics after surgery to counteract the possibility of contracting an infection
• Bleeding. A hematoma can sometimes develop causing swelling under the skin. This will necessitate corrective surgery if it does occur
• Nerve damage. Also very rare and usually a temporary problem that corrects itself.
• Scarring. Any incision will cause this to occur but over time this will gradually fade.
• Numbness. Only a temporary discomfort that will disappear

Recovery

The recovery time from a routine mini facelift will usually be a day or two although surgeons will generally recommend patients should take it easy for the first week after having surgery. Patients will in many cases have a feeling of facial numbness and stiffness. There will also be signs of bruising for the first two or three weeks which will gradually diminish after the third week. Most patients return to work after one or two weeks of surgery but they are advised to avoid anything strenuous and have plenty of rest to help the healing process.

Benefits

The main benefits from this procedure are it is a much less invasive surgical procedure than the full face lift. Also a general anesthetic is not always required and the recovery time is shorter. The costs involved are also considerably lower than the full face lift which is very attractive to patients who may be under financial restraint.

In addition surgeons can carry out this particular procedure in combination with brow and eyelid surgery.
Although the effects of a mini facelift are less dramatic surgery can fix precise signs of aging in the face particularly for middle aged people who have skin that has lost its elasticity that give them a tired and jowly look.

Other noticeable benefits from this procedure are a shorter recovery period with quick and natural looking results. Patients also have improved self-esteem and an energized appearance as a result of a more youthful look.