Beauty

Differences Between a Mini and a Deep Plane Facelift

Whether you need a mini or deep plane facelift, it can be difficult to decide what version of a procedure will work best for you. This blog post will explore the differences between these two procedures so that you can make an educated decision on how to proceed.

Differences Between a Mini and a Deep Plane Facelift

1. The Cost of Each Procedure

A typical mini facelift costs between $4,000 and $6,500, depending on your surgeon’s experience. An average deep plane facelift costs between $6,000 and $8,000. This is based on the cost listed on the per-hour rates of several surgeons’ websites. Most insurance plans cover both procedures, but you may want to contact your insurance provider to see what they will and will not pay for. Many insurance providers have limitations on the types of surgeries they will cover.

2. The Results of Each Procedure

Mini and deep plane facelift differs. While mini facelifts tend to lift the cheeks, jowls, and neck skin, the deep plane facelift focuses on repositioning sagging facial muscles. As a result, the deep plane facelift is more effective at filling in folds around the eyes and mouth. Deep plane facelifts typically last longer than mini facelifts because they correct multiple issues at once. Most plastic surgeons recommend a deep plane facelift for more significant changes than those caused by simply aging. For some clients, the two procedures can be combined into one. Both procedures also have some potential risks, such as scars if not done by a qualified plastic surgeon, though they are generally minimal.

3. Recovery Time After Each Procedure

Recovery time for each of the two procedures is about the same. For a deep plane facelift, it typically takes about three to four weeks to see full results. However, some clients can see better results after two or three months with little to no negative effects. A mini facelift will leave you with minimal bruising and swelling, which will last a few days only. A little discomfort and soreness may be noticeable for a few days following the procedure. However, you can expect to return to your routine following the procedure.

4. Complications of Each Procedure

Complications are rare but can occur. Infection is the biggest potential complication that can happen with both procedures. Because of this, you should take all antibiotics that your surgeon prescribes to avoid any potential problems. Another common complication of both procedures is bleeding. However, most cases are usually mild and can be controlled through medication. If you have an ulcer or stomach ulcer, a mini facelift might not be appropriate as it can cause more bleeding than a deep plane facelift would. In the case of a deep plane facelift, there is a remote chance that the procedure will cause you to develop an infection of the skin around your nose that requires antibiotics, too. If this happens, your doctor may postpone the procedure.

5. The Length of the Procedure

Both procedures are relatively quick and take between two and three hours to complete. The mini facelift is a bit shorter and only takes about two to three hours to complete. However, the deep plane facelift can take up to an hour longer due to the extra surgery required to correct any problems that doctors missed during the first procedure. If you are booked for a deep plane facelift and have a hectic schedule the day of the procedure, your surgeon may be able to perform a mini facelift at your next appointment to save time. This is not always possible.

6. Where the Procedure is Performed

Both procedures are performed in a surgical facility. A mini facelift is done under a local anesthetic, and you will leave with instructions on how to care for your face. The recovery period for a mini facelift outside of the operating room is concise. On the other hand, a deep plane facelift requires a general anesthetic and many surgeons utilize special equipment to conduct this procedure. This is why some surgeons can only perform deep plane facelifts in an operating room.

7. Effects of each Procedure

Mini facelifts can also result in plastic surgery caution signs. For example, the skin might end up stretched out with a resulting hollow appearance after the surgery. Other effects can include scarring, uneven results, and a failure to reduce fat beneath the skin. Deep plane facelifts are better at easing and giving you a more natural and youthful appearance without any visible procedure signs. However, there is a risk of an obvious scar due to the incision.

8. When to Choose Each Procedure

If you need to tighten loose skin but do not need to reposition the face muscles or excess fat removed, a mini facelift could be an appropriate procedure. If you also have sagging facial muscles, an arched brow, hollow cheeks, and a noticeable neck puffiness with wrinkles around your mouth and eyes, a deep plane facelift may be the procedure for you. If you feel that a traditional facelift is not ideal for you or if you are having other surgeries on your face, discuss these options with your surgeon.

9. Aftercare for each Procedure

Every patient is different. Every plastic surgeon’s approach to aftercare can be different, but most will recommend either at-home or in-office treatments for healing. If you need to wear a surgical mask or bandage for more than a few days, it should be changed regularly so that breathing difficulties don’t occur. In most cases, you will be able to shower and bathe normally. However, some surgeons do recommend a milder soap or sponge.

10. Risks

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are risks involved in both mini and deep plane facelifts. Risks during the procedure include bleeding, infection, and respiratory difficulties due to the anesthesia used during surgery. Additional risks after the procedure include discoloration of the skin, asymmetrical results, or scarring. There is a remote chance of permanent nerve damage after either procedure. This occurs very rarely, however, and can be minimized by wearing gloves during the procedure. If you have allergies or sensitivity to any medications your surgeon uses, you should let your doctor know before the procedure.

Bottom Line

A mini facelift cannot solve all of your beauty concerns. If you have deeper pockets or more severe changes you want to make, a deep plane facelift is a way to go. If your goal is to tighten loose skin, a mini facelift is the fastest way to achieve your goals. However, there are also risks associated with both procedures that can result in less than optimal results. You are free to choose which procedure is best for you, and your doctor should be able to advise you on the risks and benefits of each procedure.

If you have any questions, please ask below!