By Dr. Philip Solomon & Nancie Heiber
The desire to maintain a youthful appearance has existed as long as civilization itself, with the first recorded facelift being performed in 1901 in Berlin. What has changed over time is the age at which people seek out cosmetic interventions like injectable treatments, energy devices, and surgical procedures. The mini facelift, in particular, has become one of the most popular surgical options among Millennials and Generation X. Dr. Philip Solomon, MD, FRCSC, a renowned Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon specializing in Facial Plastic Surgery in Toronto, sheds light on the mini facelift and its growing popularity within these age groups, highlighting its unique benefits.
Living Luxe: Dr. Solomon, why is the mini-facelift ideal for Millennials and Gen Xers?
The mini-facelift is perfect for Millennials and Gen Xers because it can address multiple concerns in a single procedure. It targets sagging skin, deep nasolabial folds, fine and deep wrinkles, and a drooping jawline—all in just a few hours. This procedure provides the much-desired “snatched” jawline, which has become synonymous with a youthful appearance. It also offers a lift to the mid-face, where gravity and collagen loss begin to take effect in our 30s. By the time Millennials and Gen Xers reach their 30s, many have already tried non-surgical treatments for aesthetic enhancement and anti-aging, so they often seek a more permanent solution. A mini facelift focuses on the mid-face only, with a relatively short recovery time of two to three weeks, making it a great fit for those looking for a manageable yet effective option.
LL: How has social media impacted the demand for cosmetic surgery?
Social media has undeniably redefined beauty standards, especially among Millennials. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook influence perceptions of beauty and aging and provide a wealth of information on how to slow the aging process. Social media often showcases filtered or edited images, which can create unrealistic beauty standards and, at times, low self-esteem, particularly among Millennials who engage with these platforms regularly. Exposure to these images has spurred increased demand for cosmetic surgery, especially among Millennials (ages 23 to 38), who have grown up with social media and are major contributors to its content.
LL: Why the mini facelift?
The mini facelift is preferred because it offers a vertical lift, reversing the effects of gravity. Unlike older facelift techniques that relied on horizontal pulls, the modern mini facelift lifts the face in a more natural, vertical direction. This technique often incorporates the deep plane and a shorter scar, which is particularly appealing to Millennials who value a natural look and longer-lasting results. By addressing the deep plane, the mini facelift provides a structural lift that repositions the mid-face, often eliminating the need for additional non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers or thread lifts. This “one-stop” procedure provides a natural, youthful appearance that can last into the 50s. Additionally, the mini facelift scar is discreet, hidden in front of the ear along the tragus, and doesn’t extend behind the ear, making it ideal for those who wear ponytails.
LL: What is the best way to choose a surgeon and what is the cost of a mini facelift?
The cost of a mini facelift varies depending on the surgeon’s experience and expertise. When selecting a surgeon, look for qualifications such as education, credentials, and their experience performing mini facelifts. Review before-and-after photos on their website and check testimonials from past patients. It’s also essential to understand the technique your surgeon uses and meet their team, as they play an important role in the overall patient experience.
Dr. Philip Solomon is a double board-certified Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeon specializing in Facial Plastic Cosmetic Surgery in Toronto. With over 20 years of experience in mini facelift surgery, Dr. Solomon is renowned for delivering exceptional results.
