A Minimal Incision Facelift, sometimes called a Mini-Facelift or Weekend Facelift, is basically a shortened procedure that is less invasive and involves less recovery time. The term Weekend Facelift often gives prospective patients the idea that a procedure performed on Friday will be healed in time for work on Monday. But is that really the accurate timeline? If you’re considering a Weekend Facelift, there are a few things you should know, including the right amount of vacation days you’ll need for your recovery.
How Is a Weekend Facelift Different?
Both a traditional facelift and a weekend facelift can make positive changes to the face that will reduce a patient’s perceived age. Additionally, they each involve a surgical procedure, the use of anesthetics, the placement of incisions, and a period of recovery. While both surgeries are similar in their objectives and the methods used to reach those objectives, they are fundamentally different in many ways.
Compared to a traditional facelift, the Weekend Facelift:
- Creates less pain and discomfort for patients.
- Needs a shorter recovery time.
- Is typically performed under local anesthesia and IV sedation, instead of general anesthesia.
- Involves fewer and smaller incisions, just one in front of each ear.
- Provides less extensive results to patients.
- Costs less than traditional facelift surgery.
- Focuses on minor sagging around the lower face.
For the right patient, a Weekend Facelift can offer a quick, anti-aging boost to your appearance, taking off a few years in the process.
What’s a Realistic Timeline for the Weekend Facelift?
When it comes time to plan your Weekend Facelift, you’ll definitely want to be sure to give yourself the right amount of time to recover. Plan ahead by cashing in on sick pay or vacation days, cancel your plans for a girls’ night, or pass on the weekly hockey game while you recover. If you know when and how long you’ll need to recover, you can clear your schedule and dedicate your time to rest and relaxation around the house.
The surgery itself should last one to two hours, depending on the extent of work your plastic surgeon needs to achieve in that area. The Weekend Facelift is less involved than a traditional facelift surgery, so the procedure is a bit quicker. Once you’re awake, you’ll be sent home with a friend or family member as your chauffeur; you will not be allowed to drive home while the anesthesia and sedatives remain in your system. At home, the Weekend Facelift recovery time should last about one week before you are able to return to work and your usual activities. Expect your bruising and swelling to taper off gradually within a week to 10 days.
Am I A Good Candidate?
Before trying to squeeze your Weekend Facelift surgery onto your calendar, you might want to consider whether you would be considered a good candidate or not. All facelift patients should be in good overall health, not smoke, and have realistic expectations for their results. Weekend Facelifts are best suited for prospective patients from their 30s up to their 50s, who might be experiencing some of the early, unsatisfying effects of aging. Typically, ideal patients are experiencing only minor sagging of the skin around the chin and drooping around the cheeks. More advanced signs of aging will require a full facelift to be resolved. If you’re not sure whether you would most benefit from a Weekend Facelift or another procedure, consult with a plastic surgeon for an expert assessment and personalized recommendations.
Do You Think You’re Ready?
Explore your surgical options by booking a Weekend Facelift consultation. Visit Renu Med Spa and Plastic Surgery to speak with founder and Medical Director Dr. Philip Schoenfeld, a board certified facial plastic surgeon with experience in anti-aging treatments and other surgical procedures. He takes a keen interest in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, having practiced in Washington, D.C., since 1994. A proven track record for excellence and a personal dedication to excellence and aesthetics have earned him a significant reputation among his peers. He was voted one of America’s Top Doctors in 2013 by Castle Connolly. Contact Renu Med Spa and Plastic Surgery, located at 5454 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1625 in Chevy Chase, Maryland, by calling (301) 652-RENU (7368). Book your appointment with Dr. Schoenfeld today.