Many of my cosmetic surgery patients in Orlando come to me wondering whether they are candidates for facelift surgery. In some cases, if the patient does not have the skin laxity for a traditional facelift, that person may be a candidate for a mini facelift (MACS lift).
So what’s the difference between these related options? In general, the 3 main differences between the procedures are:
- Who is a good candidate: MACS lift is best for those with moderate sagging of the lower facial region and mild or moderate loss of skin elasticity. Candidates for the procedure have not yet experienced dramatic signs of aging, but they would like to see some improvement. A full facelift, on the other hand, is better for patients with more severe signs of aging that include jowls or a sagging jawline.
- Extent of correction: MACS stands for minimal access cranial suspension. This minimal access means the surgeon cannot adjust and lift the tissues as much as with a traditional facelift.
- Recovery time: The lower amount of access of a MACS lift also means patients typically experience a shorter recovery time than traditional facelift patients. In general, those who proceed with the MACS lift can return to their everyday activities within days. Because the mini version is less invasive, it also makes the recovery smoother and more comfortable, with less swelling and bruising.
Both procedures can provide beautiful results for the right patient. The best way to find out which you are a candidate for is to meet with a qualified surgeon to discuss your needs. He or she will devise a surgical plan that is tailored to you specifically.
