Mini Facelift Cost

• A mini facelift typically costs between $3,500 and $8,000, depending on geographic location and the individual patient. For example, Salisbury Plastic Surgery in Massachusetts charges between $3,500 and $6,500. And Robert Kearney MD in California charges about $7,000. The Cardiff Medical Spa in California charges $7,000, or $8,000 with liposuction included. Surgeons at RealSelf.com say the cost can range from $4,500 to as high as $16,000, which would be unusual.
• Because it is a cosmetic procedure, a mini facelift typically would not be covered by health insurance.

• First the patient typically is given local anesthesia or IV sedation. Then, the surgeon makes incisions from just in front of the ears to just behind the ears. The doctor then tightens skin and tissue and secures it in its new position. This tightens the mid- and lower-face, but will not correct excessive jowling or sagging of the lower neck.
• The mini facelift typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half and is an outpatient procedure.
• Though the procedure is sometimes called a "weekend facelift," recovery takes about a week.

• It is fairly common for a surgeon to recommend fillers to complement a mini facelift; this can add $400 to $1,300 or more to the cost. Botox also is sometimes recommended as an add-on; this can add $300 to $1,200 or more to the cost.

• Many plastic surgeons offer discounts on multiple procedures.

• Tip: Make sure the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has privileges at an accredited hospital, even if the surgery is not taking place there. Both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery offer referral services. Also ask how much experience the surgeon has performing mini facelifts, and look at before-and-after photographs of previous patients. Some experts recommend seeking out a doctor who specializes in facial plastic surgery.
• Discuss with the surgeon your desired results and whether a mini facelift is the right choice for you. A good candidate for a mini facelift is in her 30s or 40s (or possibly 50s) and does not display severe sagging and drooping in the face, especially in the neck area.
• Risks of a mini facelift include bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve damage and dissatisfaction with results. At RealSelf.com, patients discuss their experiences with mini facelifts.

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