Which Is Best for You: Neck Lift vs. Facelift vs. Mini Facelift?
Facial rejuvenation is one of the most sought-after areas of cosmetic surgery, and procedures such as…Read On
TLKM Plastic Surgery
737 North Michigan Avenue #1500
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 788-2560
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
View Before & After Photos
Who Is a Good Candidate for Mid Facelift Surgery?
A mid facelift procedure benefits patients by specifically targeting and restoring the cheeks and mid face. In comparison, a full facelift addresses more advanced aging, focusing on the lower two-thirds of the face and the neck. Most mid facelift patients are in their 30s through 50s and seek this approach because it is less invasive than full facelift surgery.
A mid facelift can:
- Give the cheeks a more youthful and lifted appearance
- Smooth nasolabial folds (smile lines)
- Reduce the sunken appearance under the eyes
- Correct early to moderate signs of aging throughout the mid face
It offers other benefits, too, making it an attractive option for many men and women. Some of these additional perks include:
- It may be performed under local anesthesia
- The surgery typically takes less time to complete than a full facelift
- It requires a shorter recovery period than a traditional facelift
For patients concerned about fine vertical lip lines in addition to midface sagging, Dr. Mustoe also offers lip line rejuvenation. This targeted option restores delicate lip area volume and texture.
What Happens During a Cheek Lift?
For your mid facelift procedure, we begin by making small incisions near the hairline and around the ear, depending on the amount of correction required. We lift and elevate the fat pads in your cheek tissue, then tighten and secure the skin and tissues using tiny sutures. This helps restore plumpness and fullness to the midface, giving you a more youthful and rested appearance. While every patient’s needs are unique, the procedure typically lasts 2 hours. However, your surgery may take longer if it is performed in combination with a complementary procedure such as eyelid surgery. in many instances, the procedure is part of a lower facelift, which includes correction of the neck, using a deep plane or dual plane approach.
What To Expect During Your Mid Facelift Recovery
Recovery from a mid facelift is shorter than with many other facial plastic surgery procedures. Patients can return home on the day of surgery with the help of a trusted family member or friend. After about a week of downtime, most patients feel ready to show off their initial results. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect throughout mid facelift recovery:
Week 1:
Prioritize resting and keep your head elevated during this initial healing phase. Swelling and bruising are normal. Some patients may also experience numbness in the surgical area. Taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs can minimize any discomfort.
Week 2:
Many patients are ready to return to work and other non-strenuous activities during the second week of recovery. Your cheek pads may look higher than usual, but rest assured they will gradually settle into place as healing continues.
2 to 4 Months:
As you enter the final stages of healing, you’re already enjoying your fresh, youthful look. Even though you feel “back to yourself,” you can continue to accelerate healing by staying hydrated and protecting your skin from sun exposure by using sunscreen and wearing brimmed hats.
6 to 12 Months:
Congratulations! All post-surgical swelling has resolved, and you can show off your full mid facelift results. While your mid facelift doesn’t halt the aging process, you can enjoy your rejuvenated look for several years.
Dr. Mustoe’s “Quick Recovery” Approach
Unlike many of his plastic surgery peers, Dr. Mustoe favors using local anesthesia with sedation vs. general anesthesia. This innovative approach reduces the risk of blood clots, avoids postoperative “brain fog,” and leads to a faster, more comfortable recovery. Dr. Mustoe has lectured internationally about his groundbreaking use of sedation during plastic surgery, and he has published extensive research on this approach in leading medical journals.
Mid Facelift vs. Mini Facelift
Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno perform a variety of advanced facial surgical techniques. A traditional or deep-plane facelift achieves comprehensive lower face and neck results. A mini facelift is a modified version of a full facelift that uses small incisions to address early aging symptoms. A mid facelift treats aging symptoms specific to the mid-face, such as lax cheeks and nasolabial folds. If jowls are a concern, patients can achieve optimal results with a full facelift. During your consultation, Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno will recommend the surgical approach that best aligns with your specific needs.
Chicago's
Premier Plastic Surgeons
Dr. Thomas Mustoe and Dr. Sammy Sinno are board-certified plastic surgeons renowned in Chicago and beyond for their unparalleled expertise, refined surgical techniques, and exceptional patient outcomes. Together, they set the gold standard in plastic surgery treatment and care, delivering:
- Safe, best-in-class protocols
- Minimal scarring and bruising
- Customized, natural-looking results
- Faster, more comfortable recovery
- Use of local anesthesia with sedation
- State-of-the-art Facility
Mid Facelift FAQ
Is a mid facelift painful?
The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia and is well-tolerated by most patients. Your post-op protocol may include prescribed pain medications to help you manage any discomfort during the initial days of healing and recovery.
How long does a cheek lift last?
While results vary from patient to patient, your procedure can last 10 years or more, especially if you take proper care of your skin. While wrinkles and other symptoms will continue as part of the natural aging process, you will still look younger than if you had not had the procedure. Visiting our practice for nonsurgical treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers can help you preserve your youthful look.
What’s the cost of a mid facelift in Chicago?
The price of a mid facelift in Chicago varies based on factors such as your skin condition and the amount of correction necessary. We will assess your needs during your personal consultation and share a detailed price estimate. While elective procedures such as cheek lift surgery are not covered by health insurance, we work with companies offering a variety of financing options to help you spread the cost of your surgery over time.
Take the Next Step
A mid facelift procedure is a targeted and effective way to restore fullness to your cheeks, rejuvenate your look, and boost your self-confidence. We encourage you to arrange your mid facelift consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons in Chicago by requesting a consultation online or calling our practice at (312) 788-2560. We look forward to helping you achieve your facial aesthetic goals!
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