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What Is a Short Scar Facelift?

A “short scar facelift” requires shorter incisions and faster healing time than a traditional facelift, making it ideal for patients experiencing less extreme mid to lower facial sagging. The incision is placed in the hair, just above the ear, extending downward to the base of the ear. Through the incision, the connective tissues beneath the skin (the SMAS layer) are carefully repositioned and lifted to their youthful position. Dr. Reitzen may remove submental fat (double chin fat) with gentle liposuction to enhance jawline definition.

What Can a Short Scar Facelift Treat?

This surgical approach may be ideal for patients who want to rejuvenate the lower facial area by removing jowls and restoring an elegant, youthful jawline. The surgery is appropriate for those in their 40s and 50s experiencing the development of:

  • Deepened nasolabial folds
  • A sagging jawline
  • Under-chin fat  
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What Are the Benefits of a Short Scar Facelift?

The benefits of this treatment include the following:

  • Shorter incisions, virtually invisible surgical scars
  • No incisions placed in the back of the ears
  • Less risk of distorting the appearance of the earlobes
  • No effect on the hairline
  • Less chance of nerve injury
  • Does not require general anesthesia in most cases
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Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials

Dr. Reitzen and her entire team are absolutely incredible!I received top-tier care.

K.

I had an excellent experience with Dr. Reitzen and her team.

L.C.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Reitzen and the exceptional care I received.

M.B.

Could not be happier with the results of my facial botox injections by Dr. Reitzen. The entire experience was exceptional from start to finish.

M.A.

Am I a Candidate for a Short Scar Facelift?

If you are experiencing earlier signs of facial aging, such as etched-in smile lines and a sagging jawline, and are in good general health, you may be a good candidate for a short scar facelift in Upper East Side. This approach to facial rejuvenation is also ideal for patients who want to improve the results of an initial facelift procedure.

What Is the Recovery Time After a Short Scar Facelift?

The recovery from a short scar facelift will involve some swelling and bruising but is less extensive than the aftereffects of a full facelift. During your recovery, you will need to sleep on your back, with your head elevated, and avoid bending over or any activity that could result in pressure or impact on the restructured tissues. Stitches are removed in about one week. Plan on taking one to two weeks off, and take the time to rest and allow your body to heal. You must avoid vigorous activities, including exercise, lifting pets or children, for at least two weeks, but should take gentle walks every day. Most people with short scar facelifts can return to work or other activities in one to two weeks, feeling and looking great.

What Is the Difference Between a Full Facelift and a Short Scar Facelift?

The difference between a full facelift and a short scar facelift is that less extensive changes are made. A full facelift is likely needed for those with a more extreme level of sagging, creased facial skin, a double chin, or a sagging upper neck appearance. A full facelift is typically performed with general anesthesia and requires longer incisions. Younger patients who want to restore jawline definition and look more youthful in the most natural way may be candidates for a short scar facelift.

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Why Choose Us?

If you are considering a facelift, you want to be confident that your surgery will be performed by a talented, highly experienced facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Shari Reitzen has dedicated years to achieving advanced surgical skills, holding certifications as an Otolaryngologist, and being fellowship trained in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. She is both a talented facial plastic surgeon and an educator who teaches residents and fellows at NYU. You deserve a superior level of personalized care and a facial plastic surgeon who uses the most advanced techniques and results that appear exceptionally fresh and natural. Contact us today to find out more.

Short Scar Facelift FAQ's

What is a short scar facelift?

How does a short scar facelift differ from a traditional facelift?

What areas can a short scar facelift improve?

Who is a good candidate for a short scar facelift?

What are the benefits of a short scar facelift?

How is a short scar facelift performed?

What is recovery like after a short scar facelift?

Does a short scar facelift require general anesthesia?

Can a short scar facelift improve the results of a previous facelift?

Why choose Dr. Shari Reitzen for a short scar facelift on the Upper East Side?

What is a short scar facelift?

A short scar facelift is a facial rejuvenation procedure that uses shorter incisions than a traditional facelift to lift and reposition underlying facial tissues, helping create a refreshed and natural-looking appearance.

How does a short scar facelift differ from a traditional facelift?

A short scar facelift involves smaller incisions and is designed for patients with less extensive facial sagging, while a traditional facelift addresses more advanced aging concerns with longer incisions and more comprehensive tissue repositioning.

What areas can a short scar facelift improve?

A short scar facelift can help improve concerns such as jowls, a sagging jawline, deepened nasolabial folds, and under-chin fullness caused by early signs of facial aging.

Who is a good candidate for a short scar facelift?

Ideal candidates are generally healthy individuals experiencing early facial aging, including mild to moderate sagging, etched-in smile lines, or loss of jawline definition who want a natural rejuvenation.

What are the benefits of a short scar facelift?

Benefits of a short scar facelift include shorter incisions, discreet scarring, faster healing, reduced risk of earlobe distortion, minimal impact on the hairline, and a more comfortable recovery compared to a full facelift.

How is a short scar facelift performed?

During a short scar facelift, Dr. Reitzen uses a small incision near the ear to access and reposition the SMAS layer beneath the skin. Liposuction may also be performed under the chin to enhance jawline definition.

What is recovery like after a short scar facelift?

Recovery typically involves some swelling and bruising, with most patients returning to work and daily activities within one to two weeks. Patients should follow post-operative instructions, including keeping the head elevated and avoiding strenuous activity.

Does a short scar facelift require general anesthesia?

In many cases, a short scar facelift does not require general anesthesia, depending on the patient's needs and the specifics of the procedure.

Can a short scar facelift improve the results of a previous facelift?

Yes, a short scar facelift may be an option for patients who want to enhance or refresh the results of an earlier facelift procedure.

Why choose Dr. Shari Reitzen for a short scar facelift on the Upper East Side?

Dr. Shari Reitzen is a fellowship-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with advanced expertise in facial rejuvenation. She focuses on personalized care and natural-looking results using advanced facelift techniques.

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