About Short Scar Facelift

According to a 2010 survey by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 36 percent of women and 11 percent of men over the age of 55 would get a facelift if money wasn't an issue. More than a hundred years removed from the first facelift surgery in 1901, the procedure has spawned dozens of techniques, including short scar lifts designed to minimize healing time and reduce scarring.

Function

• A short scar facelift is designed to reduce the signs of aging by tightening sagging facial skin. Short scar facelift techniques vary in their application. Some reduce skin laxity only, while others also tighten the underlying tissues of the face by targeting the SMAS (superficial muscular and aponeurtoic system) muscles of the lower face and jowl area.

  The short scar facelift treatment derives its name from the location and size of the scar. Short scar facelifts use an incision around the ear, whereas traditional, full facelift scars are larger and extend into the hairline.

Types

• Many short scar facelift techniques are branded medical procedures, such as the Lifestyle Lift, Quick Lift and Weekend Facelift. Unbranded treatments are commonly referred to as mini lifts, S-lifts or short scar facelifts. Individual doctors may also have their own short scar facelift techniques.

Cost

• There is no standard fee for a short scar facelift; the cost varies by provider. Surgical fees encompass the surgeon's time, operating room fees, anesthesia and recovery costs.

  The average cost of a short scar facelift is approximately $3,500 to $5,000, as of 2010. The cost of surgery is highly dependent on your location: a surgeon in Beverly Hills or New York City will charge more, on average, than a surgeon in a smaller town.

Advantages

• Expected recovery time is considered a major advantage of a short scar facelift. The procedure is less invasive than a traditional facelift and, on average, involves a shorter recovery period. Some short scar facelift techniques can also be performed under local anesthesia.

  Price is also an advantage: a traditional facelift can cost two to three times as much as a short scar facelift, according to an article in Boston Magazine.

Disadvantages

• The short scar facelift addresses a smaller area when compared to a traditional facelift. A short scar lift cannot improve skin laxity in the upper face or brow area, which means it may not be appropriate for all patients. Further, some board-certified surgeons believe that short scar facelifts do not last as long.

  Local anesthesia used during a short scar facelift may also be considered a disadvantage. Local anesthesia provides only a twilight sedation, so patients are aware of what is happening. Some patients consider this frightening and would rather be placed under general anesthesia.

Considerations

• Patients considering a short scar facelift should fully investigate their surgeon prior to making an appointment. Ideally, a surgeon should be board certified by a society recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Further, patients should meet with their surgeon and discuss the procedure before making a decision. The success of any surgical procedure relies on the skill of the surgeon, as well as strict adherence to post-operative care.