Shorter-scar facelift
Deep plane mini lift in Seoul, Korea
The deep plane mini lift is a shorter-incision facelift that still lifts the SMAS layer and retaining ligaments, not just the skin. It suits early to moderate sagging of the cheeks and jawline, takes 2–3 hours under general anesthesia, and patients usually go home the same day.
Who is it for?
- Nasolabial folds, marionette lines or glabellar lines from early aging
- A jawline that is losing definition because the cheeks are sagging
- People in their late 30s to 50s who are not ready for a full facelift
- People whose fillers or threads no longer give enough lift
How it differs from a full facelift
| Mini lift | Deep plane facelift | |
|---|---|---|
| Incision | Temple to sideburn, behind ear (shorter) | Hairline, around and behind the ear |
| Area treated | Mid-face, jowls, jawline | Mid-face, jowls, jawline and neck |
| Surgery time | 2–3 hours | About 4 hours |
| Best for | Early to moderate sagging | Moderate to severe sagging, neck laxity |
Both techniques work in the deep plane, so both address the cause of sagging. For a side-by-side guide, read full facelift vs mini lift.
How the surgery is done
- The surgeon designs the lift around your facial proportions.
- Through incisions from the temple to the sideburn and behind the ear, the skin, SMAS and fat are lifted together and the retaining ligaments released.
- Excess skin is removed and closed with fine stitches to keep scars thin.
- The result is a smoother jawline and a fresher mid-face.
Before and after surgery
Before
- Fast for 8 hours before surgery.
- Stop aspirin and painkillers 7–10 days before surgery (tell us about every medicine and supplement you take).
- No smoking or alcohol for at least 3 days before surgery.
- Arrange transport home or to your hotel. You cannot drive after anesthesia.
After
- Swelling is greatest in the first 48 hours.
- Use ice packs for the first 7 days, then switch to warm packs.
- Sleep on your back with your head raised 20–30° for 4 weeks. Avoid sleeping on your side.
- No sauna or hot baths for about 4 weeks.
- No jogging, swimming or facial massage for 6 weeks.
- No smoking or alcohol for 3–4 weeks.
Price
| Procedure | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Deep plane mini lift | US$ 8,800 |
Rough guide in US dollars for international patients, including the surgeon's fee, anesthesia and routine aftercare. Your exact quote depends on your examination and what is combined, and is confirmed in writing before surgery. Flights and hotel are not included.
Mini lift recovery
- Surgery day
Surgery under general anesthesia with an anesthesiologist present. Most patients go back to their hotel the same day after monitored recovery.
- Day 1–2
Swelling and tightness peak within 48 hours. Keep your head raised and use ice packs. A post-operative check is scheduled at the clinic.
- Day 3–7
Swelling and bruising begin to settle. Continue ice packs until day 7. Short walks are encouraged.
- Week 1–2
Stitches are removed 1–2 weeks after surgery. Many patients fly home after this visit. Switch from ice to warm packs.
- Week 4
You can usually return to sleeping normally and use the sauna again. Most visible swelling has gone.
- Week 6+
Return to jogging, swimming and massage. The face keeps softening and settling over the following months.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a mini facelift take?
2–3 hours under general anesthesia, with an anesthesiologist present.
Am I too young for a mini lift?
Grand performs the mini lift on younger patients whose jawline is blurred by cheek sagging. The surgeon will tell you honestly if a non-surgical option would be enough.
How long is recovery?
Swelling peaks in 48 hours, stitches are removed in 1–2 weeks, and most people look presentable in about 2 weeks. Strenuous exercise waits until 6 weeks.
Does a mini lift treat the neck?
Not much. If your neck is loose or banded, a deep plane face and neck lift is usually the better choice.
About this page. Procedure details on this page come from Grand Plastic Surgery's published clinical information. Individual plans, surgery time and recovery vary and are confirmed only after an in-person examination with the operating surgeon. Last updated 2026-09-27.
Send your photos for a free facelift assessment
Reply within 24 hours in English. Interpreters available for Chinese, Russian, Japanese, Mongolian, Vietnamese and Thai.