Treatment Overview
The Short-Scar Mini Facelift is a minimally invasive facelift procedure that targets sagging midface and lower-face tissues using smaller, strategically placed incisions. This approach minimizes scarring while lifting and tightening the cheeks, jawline, and lower face. In Korea, surgeons use advanced techniques to ensure natural-looking results with faster recovery, making it a popular choice for patients seeking subtle facial rejuvenation.
Purpose & Benefits
- Lifts sagging cheeks, jawline, and midface
- Reduces jowls and nasolabial folds
- Restores youthful facial contours with minimal scarring
- Maintains natural facial expressions
- Minimally invasive compared to full facelift procedures
- Shorter recovery time and less post-operative discomfort
- Can be combined with neck lift, cheek lift, or eyelid surgery for enhanced results
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and midface
- Adults in their 30s to 60s seeking subtle, natural rejuvenation
- Patients with good skin elasticity
- Those looking for minimal scarring and shorter downtime
- People with realistic expectations for natural-looking results
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort
- Mild numbness or tingling, usually temporary
- Rare infection or delayed wound healing
- Slight asymmetry during early recovery
- Minimal visible scarring
- Rare nerve injury affecting facial movement
Surgical Techniques Used
- Short, Hidden Incisions – Typically around the hairline and ear for minimal visibility
- SMAS Layer Lifting – Repositions underlying facial tissues for longer-lasting results
- Endoscopic Assistance (Optional) – Provides precision and reduces invasiveness
- Absorbable Fixation Devices – Secure lifted tissues during healing
- Combination Procedures – Can be performed with mini neck lift, cheek lift, or eyelid surgery
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial Recovery: 5–10 days with mild swelling, bruising, and tightness
- Stitches removed after 5–7 days if external; internal stitches dissolve naturally
- Avoid heavy lifting, bending forward, or strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks
- Sleep with head elevated to minimize swelling
- Follow-up visits to monitor healing, symmetry, and final results
- Full results typically visible after 1–3 months as tissues settle
Results & Longevity
- Immediate improvement in midface and jawline contours after swelling subsides
- Natural, subtle rejuvenation without overcorrection
- Results generally last 7–10 years, depending on skin quality and aging
- Maintenance can be enhanced with non-surgical treatments such as fillers, Botox, or skin tightening
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a top destination for Short-Scar Mini Facelift surgery due to advanced techniques, precision, and focus on natural aesthetics.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Consultation & 3D Analysis – Facial evaluation and imaging to design optimal incision placement and tissue lift.
- Customized Surgical Planning – Tailored incision placement and lifting technique for symmetry and natural contours.
- Anesthesia – Typically local anesthesia with sedation; light general anesthesia may be used if preferred.
- Surgical Procedure –
- Small hidden incisions around hairline and ear
- SMAS layer lifted and repositioned to restore facial contour
- Optional endoscopic guidance for precision
- Tissues secured with absorbable fixation devices
- Post-Operative Care – Korean clinics provide:
- LED therapy to reduce swelling and bruising
- Topical regenerative treatments to accelerate healing
- Follow-up visits to ensure symmetry and monitor recovery
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Surgeons skilled in Asian facial anatomy and natural aesthetics
- Expertise in minimally invasive, scar-minimizing procedures
- Advanced technology for safe, precise, and natural outcomes
- Competitive pricing with comprehensive post-surgery care
- High patient satisfaction with subtle, long-lasting rejuvenation
Cost Range in Korea
The Short-Scar Mini Facelift typically costs ₩6,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW (approx. $4,400 – $7,400 USD).
Factors affecting cost:
- Clinic reputation and surgeon expertise
- Surgical technique used (endoscopic vs. standard short-scar facelift)
- Combination with other facial procedures
- Aftercare services including LED therapy, medications, and follow-up visits
Global Comparison:
- US & Europe: $7,500 – $12,500
- Japan: $6,000 – $9,500
- Korea: $4,400 – $7,400 (including comprehensive aftercare)
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Renowned for natural, minimally invasive facelifts
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic – Expertise in short-scar and mini facelifts
- ID Hospital – Advanced 3D planning for precise short-scar facelift
- JW Plastic Surgery – Long-lasting, subtle results with minimal scarring
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Focus on minimally invasive techniques and fast recovery
