Nowadays, it’s no longer surprising to learn that men comprise a significant number of patients for cosmetic procedures, including a mini facelift and a full facelift or rhytidectomy. According to a report published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were approximately 18,000 male patients (or about 8% of the total facelift procedures) who underwent a full facelift treatment in 2020. This was a significantly higher percentage compared to 2000. Based on the same report, there was a 19% increase in male patients for a rhytidectomy treatment.

Mini facelift vs full facelift: What’s the difference?

First off, a mini facelift and a full facelift are both surgical procedures designed to rejuvenate the skin, giving it a younger, tighter appearance. Most patients who have undergone a mini lift or a full lift notice they look years younger than their actual age. Some even say they look 12 years younger after a rhytidectomy.

As for the differences between the two, here are the most significant ones:

• Target areas. A mini facelift generally targets the mid to lower third of the face, which means the areas under the chin and around the neck aren’t included in the treatment. On the other hand, a full facelift targets the mid to lower portion of the face, the jowls, under the chin, and around the neck.
• Ideal candidate. The ideal candidate for a mini lift is usually someone who is in their 40’s or 50’s, and has mild to moderate skin laxity on the target area. For a full facelift, patients are usually in their 60’s and even 70’s, dealing with advanced skin laxity on the target areas.
• Incisions. With a mini lift, incisions are shorter and fewer compared to a full lift. But with both, patients don’t have to worry about visible scarring because the surgeon makes the incisions along the hairline and/or around and behind the ear, which means scars, if and when they do develop, will be hidden and not easily seen.
• Downtime and recovery. With a mini facelift, patients generally take up to two weeks to fully recover. Within a month after the procedure, they can return to normal activities, including strenuous, physical exercises and other activities. With a full facelift, the first two weeks following surgery are dedicated to healing, resting, and recovery. On the third week, they may be able to return to work, but strenuous physical activities are prohibited until after the surgeon gives their clearance.

Why do men undergo a facelift procedure?

For most men, a facelift is necessary not only for rejuvenating the skin but also to make shaving easier once more. You see, a lot of men find that their “turkey neck” gets in the way of proper shaving, which is why they want it removed immediately. And the most effective treatment for this, with longer-lasting results, is a traditional facelift.

Are you an ideal candidate for a full or mini facelift? Please feel free to call Capital Facial Plastic Surgery at (240) 630-8175 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Adam E. Singleton, MD. You may also click here to schedule an appointment.