Short-scar Facelift

If you are interested in a short scar facelift or would like to discuss other facelift options then please call to arrange a consultation or get in touch with any questions, we are hear to help.

At Kensington Medical short-scar facelifts are handled by our expert facial surgeons:

Mr David Gateley, has over 30 years of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery and was head of Plastics at one of the biggest NHS hospitals in London. His extensive experience in facelifts includes the SMAS, mini facelifts, one stitch facelifts, full facelifts, and neck lifts

Mr Paul Tulley with decades of experience in facial surgery is a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon. He specialises in all facelifts which include deep plane facelift and neck lift, SMAS, short scar, mini facelift and facial palsy surgery.

If you would like to arrange a consultation to discuss treatment options or simply want further advice, please contact us today by filling in our contact form or calling us on 02045514892.

Definition and Overview

A short scar facelift is a type of facial cosmetic surgery that aims to rejuvenate the lower face and neck area with minimal scarring. Often referred to as a mini facelift or S-Lift, this procedure is designed to restore a more youthful appearance by addressing mild to moderate signs of aging, such as sagging skin, jowls, and loose skin on the neck. Unlike a traditional facelift, which involves longer incisions, a short scar facelift uses a shorter incision, known as a short scar facelift incision, typically made in the temples and in front of the ears.

The short scar facelift approach not only minimises visible scarring but also allows for a quicker recovery. The procedure is often performed under local anaesthesia, making it a less invasive option for those seeking facial rejuvenation.

Benefits and Advantages

The short scar facelift offers several benefits and advantages over traditional facelifts, making it an attractive option for many patients:

Minimal Scarring: The shorter incision results in less visible scarring, making it ideal for those who want to avoid noticeable scars.
Less Invasive: The procedure is less invasive than a traditional facelift, resulting in less trauma to the skin and underlying tissues. Short scar facelift surgery is associated with fewer complications, such as reduced bruising and swelling, making it a safer option for many patients.
Quicker Recovery: The recovery time for a short scar facelift is typically shorter than for a traditional facelift, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a week or two.
Natural-looking Results: The procedure is designed to produce natural-looking results that enhance the patient’s existing features, rather than dramatically changing their appearance.

These benefits make the short scar facelift a popular choice for those looking to achieve a more youthful appearance without the extensive downtime associated with traditional facelifts.

Ideal Candidates

The ideal candidate for a short scar facelift is typically someone in their 40s or 50s who is experiencing mild to moderate signs of aging in the lower face and neck area. This may include:

Sagging skin on the neck and jowls
Loose skin on the face and neck
Deepening nose to mouth lines
Loss of youthful roundness in the cheeks

However, this procedure may not be suitable for everyone. Those who are not ideal candidates for a short scar facelift include:

Older individuals with more severe signs of aging
Those with significant loose skin on the neck or face
Those who require more extensive facial rejuvenation, such as a traditional facelift or neck lift

For these individuals, other options like a traditional facelift or neck lift may be more appropriate to achieve the desired results.

Comparison to Traditional Facelifts

A short scar facelift is often compared to a traditional facelift, which involves a longer incision and more extensive facial rejuvenation.

A traditional facelift can produce more dramatic results. It can also carries a higher risk of complications and does require a longer recovery time.

A short scar facelift is a more subtle and less invasive procedure that is designed to produce natural-looking results with minimal downtime.

Deciding on what is best between a short scar facelift and a traditional facelift will depend on the individual’s specific needs and goals, listening to the plastic surgoen and what adice they give. Not everyone is suited to a short scar facelift. If you are seeking a less invasive option with a quicker recovery time, the short scar facelift may be an option to discuss with our facial plastic surgeons.

Risks and Considerations

While a short-scar facelift is considered a safe and effective surgical procedure, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and considerations. Although the incisions are smaller compared to a traditional facelift, there is still a risk of scarring. These scars are however typically hidden in the natural creases of the face, making them less noticeable.

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of asymmetry, where one side of the face may not perfectly match the other. This can often be corrected with additional surgery if necessary. Nerve injury is another potential risk, which can result in temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in the face. Infection is also a possibility, though it can be managed with proper wound care and antibiotics.

Delayed wound healing is another consideration, which can lead to more noticeable scarring or other complications. Additionally, there is a risk of facial nerve damage, which can result in weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. At Kensington Medcial these risks will be discussed with your plastic surgeon to determine if a short-scar facelift is the right choice for you.

Aftercare and Recovery

After undergoing a short-scar facelift, following a comprehensive aftercare and recovery plan is crucial to achieving the best results. Rest is essential during the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or bending, for at least two weeks to allow your body to heal properly.

At Kensington Medical your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort or pain you may experience. Swelling and bruising are common after a short-scar facelift, but applying ice packs to the affected areas can help reduce these symptoms. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for wound care, including cleaning and dressing the incisions to prevent infection and promote healing.

We wil organise a set of post operative appointments to ensure recovery is going well. Attending all follow-up appointments with our plastic surgeon is vital to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns that may arise. Following the aftercare guidelines can help ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible outcome from your short-scar facelift.

Results and Longevity

The results of a short-scar facelift can be long-lasting, with many patients enjoying a more youthful appearance for several years. On average, the results can last between 5 to 10 years, depending on individual factors such as skin quality, lifestyle, and genetics. However, it’s important to remember that the natural ageing process will continue, and additional procedures may be necessary to maintain your youthful appearance.

To prolong the results of your short-scar facelift, it’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and protecting your skin from the sun, applying sunscreen 50+ and keeping environmental stressors to a minimum. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also help preserve your results.

Choosing a Qualified Surgeon

Selecting a qualified surgeon is crucial for a successful short-scar facelift. Start by looking for a surgeon who is board-certified in plastic surgery and has extensive experience with short-scar facelifts and facial cosmetic surgery. Reading reviews and asking for referrals from friends or family members can also provide valuable insights.

Schedule a consultation with the surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. During this meeting, ask about the surgeon’s approach to short-scar facelifts, including the technique and incision placement. By choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon and following a proper aftercare and recovery plan, you can achieve optimal results from your short-scar facelift and enjoy a youthful appearance for years to come.