Mini Facelift in Fort Lauderdale
with Dr. ThomassenRestore Youthful Facial Contours with Minimal Downtime
If you're noticing early signs of facial aging or want a touch-up after a previous facelift, a Mini Facelift in Fort Lauderdale by Dr. John Thomassen may be ideal. This procedure is performed in our accredited surgical suite using local anesthesia and oral sedation — no general anesthesia required. You’ll enjoy a faster recovery, fewer side effects, and beautiful, natural-looking results.
Is a Mini Facelift Right for Me?
The Mini Facelift is popular among:
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Patients in their 40s and early 50s with mild to moderate signs of facial aging
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Younger patients in their 30s with early aging due to weight loss or sun damage
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Older individuals seeking a refresher after previous cosmetic procedures
This technique is less invasive than a traditional facelift but still provides long-lasting facial rejuvenation, especially in the midface and jowls. While it may not target significant neck sagging, it’s ideal for healthy individuals comfortable with mild sedation.
The Benefits of a Facelift with Dr. Thomassen in Fort Lauderdale
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Faster recovery with minimal downtime
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Avoids general anesthesia risks
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Natural-looking results visible almost immediately
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Return to social life in 1–2 weeks
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Can be combined with blepharoplasty, neck liposuction, or temporal brow lift
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Option to add Deep Plane SMAS techniques for enhanced midface and jawline definition
Mini Doesn’t Mean Minimal
What Does a Mini Facelift Treat?
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Sagging cheeks and midface
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Deep nasolabial folds
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Jowls and marionette lines
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Mild neck laxity
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Fullness in the lower face
What to Expect: Your Consultation & Surgery
Initial Consultation
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Discuss your goals and concerns
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Review medical history and medications
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Lab work and possible clearance from your physician
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A custom surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and expectations
The Mini Facelift Procedure – Step by Step
Step 1: Oral Sedative and Local Anesthesia
You’ll take an oral sedative before surgery for relaxation. Once in the operating suite, local anesthesia is applied to numb the treatment area.
Step 2: Incisions
Dr. Thomassen makes small incisions around the ear’s natural contours for optimal camouflage.
Step 3: Deep Plane SMAS Repositioning
The SMAS layer is lifted and treated with plication, elevation, or excision. This addresses facial sagging at its root and ensures long-term results.
Step 4: Skin Redraping
Excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is gently repositioned for a smooth, natural finish.
Step 5: Incision Closure
Sutures are placed with precision to encourage fine-line scars that fade with time.
Step 6: Compression Dressing and Recovery
A compression dressing and surgical drains are applied to control swelling and bruising. They’re removed the next day in our office. You’ll go home with pain medication and antibiotics, though most patients only need Tylenol after the first night.
Recovery Timeline
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Day 1: Drains and dressing removed. Velcro compression garment applied.
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Day 2–7: Rest at home, head elevated. No cold compresses.
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Week 1–2: Sutures removed at follow-ups. Most swelling subsides.
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Week 2+: Return to social activities with visible improvement.
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Month 1+: Enjoy your refreshed, youthful appearance.