Facial rejuvenation comes in many forms — but when signs of aging become more noticeable, patients often wonder: Do I need a full facelift, or will a mini facelift give me the results I want?
At his Monterey practice, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David T. Morwood offers both full facelifts and his signature Carmel Mini Lift. While both procedures can restore youthful definition, they differ in scope, recovery, and results. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Is a Mini Facelift?
The Carmel Mini Lift is Dr. Morwood’s refined version of the mini facelift. It focuses on correcting early signs of aging in the lower face and neck, such as:
- Mild to moderate jowling
- Early sagging along the jawline
- Loose skin under the chin
- A tired or heavy look around the lower face
Key features of a mini facelift include:
- Smaller, well-concealed incisions around the ears or hairline
- Less invasive lifting of the SMAS (supporting muscle and tissue layer)
- Options for local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia
- Quicker recovery, with most patients returning to work in under a week
Because of its shorter downtime and subtle rejuvenation, the mini facelift is often recommended for patients in their 40s to 60s who want natural, refreshed results without the commitment of a full facelift.
What Is a Full Facelift?
A full facelift, also called a rhytidectomy, is designed for patients with more advanced signs of aging. It addresses sagging in the midface, jawline, and neck simultaneously. This procedure typically involves:
- Longer incisions along the hairline and around the ears
- More extensive tightening and repositioning of deeper tissues
- Removal or redraping of excess skin for smoother contours
- Often performed under general anesthesia in a surgical facility
Full facelifts deliver the most dramatic and long-lasting results, making them ideal for patients with significant skin laxity, deeper wrinkles, or those seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Recovery is longer — generally 2–3 weeks before returning to most normal activities — but results can last 10 years or more.
Mini vs. Full Facelift: Key Differences
- Surgical Scope: Mini facelifts focus on the lower face and jawline, while full facelifts address the midface, jawline, and neck.
- Downtime: Mini facelift patients often resume work in less than a week; full facelift recovery usually takes 2–3 weeks.
- Incisions: Mini facelifts use shorter, discreet incisions; full facelifts require longer incisions but can correct more extensive aging.
- Longevity: Full facelifts generally last longer, while mini facelifts may be repeated or combined with other procedures over time.
- Best Candidates: Mini facelifts suit younger patients with mild to moderate aging; full facelifts are better for older patients or those with advanced sagging.
Which Facelift Is Right for Me?
Choosing between a mini and full facelift depends on your age, anatomy, goals, and lifestyle. Some patients start with a mini facelift in their 40s or 50s to “buy time,” then consider a full facelift later for more dramatic changes. Others may benefit from a full facelift right away if their concerns extend beyond the lower face.
During your consultation, Dr. Morwood will:
- Assess your facial structure, skin elasticity, and degree of sagging
- Review your health history and goals
- Recommend the procedure (or combination of treatments) that best balances natural results with your desired downtime
Schedule Your Facelift Consultation in Monterey
Whether you’re considering the Carmel Mini Lift or a full facelift, Dr. David Morwood offers expert surgical care for patients throughout Carmel, Pebble Beach, Salinas, and the Central Coast. With decades of experience and a commitment to natural-looking results, he customizes each facelift to reflect your best self.
Contact Dr. Morwood today to schedule your facelift consultation in Monterey and discover which option is right for you.
