World-Class Facial Rejuvenation

Dr. Paul Nassif, MD, FACS, is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon whose pioneering facelift techniques have earned worldwide acclaim. As a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for 2025 and one of Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Nassif brings decades of specialized experience to every mini facelift procedure. NassifMD Plastic Surgery offers mini facelifts because we understand that sometimes subtle refinement creates the most stunning transformation.

What Is a Mini Facelift?

A mini facelift, also known as a short-scar facelift or limited-incision facelift, is a surgical procedure designed to address mild to moderate signs of aging in the lower third of the face. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this technique specifically targets sagging jowls, early neck laxity, and loss of definition along the jawline.

Unlike a traditional full facelift, which addresses the entire face and neck, a mini facelift focuses on specific areas where early aging appears first. This targeted approach makes it ideal for patients in their 40s and 50s who want to prevent more significant aging or for those who simply need less extensive correction.

What Are the Benefits of a Mini Facelift?

Patients who choose a mini facelift in Beverly Hills at NassifMD Plastic Surgery enjoy numerous advantages:

  • Natural-looking rejuvenation that enhances rather than changes your appearance
  • Shorter recovery time compared to traditional facelift surgery, typically 1-2 weeks
  • Smaller, less visible incisions that heal discreetly around the ears
  • Long-lasting results that can turn back the clock by 5-10 years
  • Improved jawline definition and reduction of jowls
  • Smoother, firmer skin in the lower face and upper neck
  • Boosted confidence from looking as vibrant as you feel
  • Less invasive procedure with reduced swelling and bruising
  • Quicker return to work and social activities

Mini facelifts have become increasingly popular because they deliver significant improvements with minimal downtime. 

Banner media

Are You a Candidate for a Mini Facelift?

The ideal candidate for a mini facelift is someone experiencing early to moderate signs of facial aging but not yet requiring the comprehensive correction of a full facelift. You may be an excellent candidate if you:

  • Notice sagging skin along your jawline or the development of jowls
  • Have mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face
  • Are bothered by early signs of aging in the neck area
  • Maintain good skin elasticity
  • Are in overall good health without conditions that impair healing
  • Have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve
  • Are a non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery
  • Want to address aging concerns before they become more pronounced

Patients in their 40s through early 60s typically benefit most from mini facelift procedures. However, age alone doesn't determine candidacy. The degree of aging and your individual anatomy matter more than the number on your birthday.

Get the most from life

Dr. Paul Nassif understands the importance of feeling confident in your appearance. He works with patients to enhance their natural beauty and allow them to get the most out of life. If you are interested in an appointment with Dr. Nassif, contact our office to schedule your consultation.

Schedule a Consultation
Contact us media

Why Choose NassifMD Plastic Surgery for Your Mini Facelift?

Dr. Paul Nassif stands apart as a leader in facial plastic surgery because of his:

  • Exceptional Credentials and Recognition: Dr. Nassif is board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. He maintains active memberships in prestigious organizations, including the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American College of Surgeons. His expertise has been recognized nationally, earning him a spot on Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list for three consecutive years.
  • Innovative Surgical Techniques: Dr. Nassif pioneered advanced facelift approaches that minimize scarring and maximize natural-looking results. His deep plane facelift expertise translates to mini facelift procedures that address deeper tissue layers for results that last longer and look more authentic. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles on facial rejuvenation and regularly presents his techniques at medical conferences worldwide.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: NassifMD Plastic Surgery operates in AAASF-accredited surgical facilities equipped with the latest technology for patient safety and optimal outcomes. Our Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and Orange County locations provide convenient access to world-class care.
  • Comprehensive Patient Care: From your initial consultation through complete recovery, our team provides attentive, personalized support. We ensure you understand every aspect of your procedure and feel confident and comfortable throughout your journey.
Dr. Nassif with patient

Your Consultation and Cost

Your mini facelift in Beverly Hills begins with a comprehensive consultation at NassifMD Plastic Surgery. During this appointment, Dr. Nassif will:

  • Discuss your aesthetic concerns and goals in detail
  • Evaluate your facial anatomy, skin quality, and degree of aging
  • Review your medical history and any medications you take
  • Explain the mini facelift technique and what results you can expect
  • Show you before-and-after photos of previous patients
  • Answer all your questions about the procedure, recovery, and results
  • Provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs

The cost of a mini facelift varies based on the extent of correction needed, the surgical technique used, and whether you combine it with complementary procedures. 

Mini Facelift Procedure Steps

The procedure typically follows these steps:

  • Anesthesia: Dr. Nassif performs most mini facelifts under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia is available if preferred. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities.
  • Incision Placement: Small incisions are made around the ears, typically starting at the temple hairline, following the natural curve in front of the ear, and extending slightly behind the ear. These incisions are strategically placed to remain virtually invisible once healed.
  • Tissue Repositioning: Dr. Nassif carefully lifts and repositions the underlying SMAS layer, which provides structural support to facial tissues. Research in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery confirms that SMAS manipulation creates more natural, longer-lasting results than skin-only techniques.
  • Excess Skin Removal: After repositioning deeper tissues, excess skin is gently redraped, and any surplus is removed. This creates a smooth, natural contour without the pulled or tight appearance associated with outdated techniques.
  • Incision Closure: Incisions are closed with meticulous suturing techniques that minimize scarring. Dr. Nassif's surgical precision ensures incisions heal as inconspicuously as possible.

The entire procedure typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on whether additional treatments are performed simultaneously. Most patients go home the same day with a supportive dressing around the face and neck.

Recovery and Results Timeline

Understanding what to expect during recovery helps you plan appropriately and ensures optimal healing:

  • First 24-48 Hours: You'll experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort, which prescription pain medication manages effectively. Keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses as directed. A responsible adult should stay with you during this time.
  • First Week: Most swelling and bruising peak around day 3-4, then gradually improve. Surgical dressings are typically removed within 2-3 days, and sutures are removed around day 5-7. Many patients feel comfortable returning to light activities and desk work after 7-10 days.
  • Weeks 2-4: Swelling continues to subside, and you'll start seeing your refined jawline and rejuvenated appearance emerge. Most bruising resolves by week 3. You can typically resume normal activities, though strenuous exercise should wait until Dr. Nassif clears you, usually around week 4.
  • Months 2-6: Residual swelling gradually resolves, and incision lines continue to fade. Your results become increasingly apparent as tissues settle into their new position. 
  • Long-Term Results: A mini facelift performed by Dr. Nassif can turn back the clock by 5-10 years, with results lasting 5-10 years or more. While aging continues naturally, you'll maintain a more youthful appearance than if you hadn't had the procedure. Protecting your skin from sun damage and maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps preserve your results longer.
Banner media

Types of Mini Facelift Techniques

Several approach variations may be recommended, such as:

  • SMAS Mini Facelift: This technique addresses the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, providing structural support for longer-lasting, more natural results. It's the most common approach to a mini facelift that Dr. Nassif uses.
  • S-Lift: Named for the S-shaped incision pattern, this technique works well for patients with isolated jowling and minimal neck laxity. The shorter incision results in minimal scarring.
  • Thread Lift Enhancement: Some patients benefit from combining a mini facelift with the strategic placement of absorbable sutures to provide additional lift in specific facial areas.
  • Combined Mini Facelift with Neck Contouring: For patients with mild neck concerns alongside lower face aging, Dr. Nassif may incorporate limited neck liposuction or neck muscle tightening for comprehensive rejuvenation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Facelifts

Can I combine a mini facelift with non-surgical treatments?

Will people be able to tell I've had surgery?

What's the difference between a mini facelift and a liquid facelift?

When can I wear makeup after my mini facelift?

What happens if I gain or lose significant weight after my mini facelift?

Can I combine a mini facelift with non-surgical treatments?

Absolutely. Many patients combine their mini facelift with complementary non-surgical treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation.

Will people be able to tell I've had surgery?

When performed by an expert like Dr. Nassif, a mini facelift creates natural-looking results that simply make you appear refreshed and well-rested, not "done."

What's the difference between a mini facelift and a liquid facelift?

A liquid facelift uses injectable dermal fillers and neurotoxins to restore volume and smooth wrinkles without surgery. While non-surgical options work well for very mild aging or as maintenance after surgery, they cannot address skin laxity, jowls, or repositioning of deeper facial structures the way a mini facelift can.

When can I wear makeup after my mini facelift?

Most patients can apply makeup to areas away from incisions within 3-5 days after surgery. You'll typically need to wait 7-10 days, or until the sutures are removed and the incisions are fully closed, before applying makeup directly near the incision sites.

What happens if I gain or lose significant weight after my mini facelift?

Significant weight fluctuations after your mini facelift can affect your results. Weight gain may add fullness to your face and neck, potentially diminishing the refined contours achieved through surgery. Substantial weight loss can cause additional skin laxity.

Schedule Your Consultation

Learn why patients from around the world trust Dr. Nassif with their faces. Contact NassifMD Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation at our Beverly Hills or Orange County location. 

Get The Most From Life

Dr. Paul Nassif understands the importance of feeling confident in your appearance. He works with patients to enhance their natural beauty and allow them to get the most out of life. If you are interested in an appointment with Dr. Nassif, contact our office to schedule your consultation.

Schedule a Consultation
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (424) 453-8966 .
Contact Us