If you’re starting to notice jowls, a softer jawline, or early neck laxity—but you’re not ready for a full facelift—a mini facelift can refresh the lower face and neck with shorter incisions and a quicker recovery. Toronto plastic surgeon Dr. Asif Pirani performs a short-scar deep plane approach designed to tighten jowls, sharpen the jawline, and improve neck contours—often without an extra under-chin incision.

“The term “mini facelift” is not universally defined and can have varying interpretations among surgeons. For some surgeons, a “mini facelift” encompasses a procedure that involves minimal dissection and surgical plane elevation, resulting in often limited outcomes and longevity. In my practice, a “mini facelift” entails a comprehensive facelift that incorporates the fundamental steps of a deep plane facelift, albeit through a shorter incision compared to a traditional facelift. Typically, I integrate facial fat grafting and liposuction techniques with a mini facelift to achieve optimal results.” —Dr. Asif Pirani Toronto Plastic Surgery Center

What a Mini Facelift Can Improve

A mini facelift can deliver natural-looking lower-face and neck rejuvenation, including:

  • Jowl tightening and a cleaner jawline
  • Improved neck contour with reduced skin and/or fat excess
  • Lifted midface/cheeks
  • Softer nasolabial and marionette lines
  • Results that look refreshed, not “pulled.”

“This is associated with less bruising, discomfort, and faster recovery times than a traditional facelift.” —Dr. Pirani

Who Is (and Isn’t) a Good Candidate?

"Mini facelifts are typically recommended for patients under the age of 50, as skin laxity and neck bands are generally less pronounced at this stage. Conversely, for patients over the age of 50, a full facelift is generally the preferred approach. As skin naturally loses elasticity over time, there tends to be more excess or saggy skin to manage. Prominent neck bands are typically best addressed through a traditional facelift that includes an incision under the chin, as this approach is associated with enhanced longevity of results. Overall, mini facelifts are reserved for younger patients and those exhibiting minimal signs of aging in the neck region." —Dr. Asif Pirani

How Dr. Pirani Performs It

Dr. Pirani’s mini facelift is a deep plane facelift performed through shorter incisions that begin in front of the ear, curve around the earlobe, and end just behind the ear. When it will enhance balance, he may add facial fat grafting and/or liposuction during the same procedure.

Recovery Timeline

  • Surgery time: ~4–6 hours
  • Overnight care: Patients typically stay overnight with nursing support; Dr. Pirani checks you the next morning.
  • Downtime: Expect bruising and swelling for days to weeks; many people feel work-ready in about 7–10 days.

Mini vs. Full Facelift: How to Choose

A full facelift can be preferable for more excess skin or pronounced neck banding, and often offers greater longevity for neck changes. Many patients, however, meet their goals with a short-scar approach and appreciate the faster recovery and subtler scarring. Your surgeon will tailor the plan to your anatomy, priorities, and timeline.

Cost & Financing (Toronto)

Mini facelift pricing typically starts from $32,000+ CAD, with surgery time of 4–6 hours. Financing may be available (for example, payments in the ~$600/month range, subject to approval and terms). Always confirm what’s included: surgeon’s fee, facility and anesthesia, garments, and follow-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What scars should I expect?
A short scar starting in front of the ear, curving around the earlobe, and ending just behind the ear.

Will I need a neck incision?
Often no. A short-scar deep plane approach can improve the face and neck without an under-chin incision in many cases; certain necks still benefit from a small extra incision for the most durable result.

How long until I’m presentable for work or social events?
Many patients feel comfortable by 7–10 days, with swelling refining over the following weeks.

How do mini facelift results compare to a full facelift?
Mini facelifts can achieve similar facial improvements; full facelifts can offer longer-lasting neck results, especially when neck bands or excess skin are significant.

Ready to Take the Next Steps

Browse before & after photos
Review multiple cases in similar lighting and angles. Look for patients close to your age, skin type, and concerns (jowls, neck laxity, midface) to set realistic expectations.

Book a consultation with Dr. Pirani
Bring your medical history, a list of medications/supplements, and any past procedures. Prepare 2–3 priority goals (e.g., jawline definition, neck contour) and ask about recovery timing, scar placement, and whether fat grafting or liposuction would enhance your result.

Get pre-approved for financing
Check your eligibility and estimated monthly payments in advance so you can plan confidently and schedule surgery around work or events.