Short Scar Facelift Guide | Natural Rejuvenation with Minimal Scarring

Want to rejuvenate your lower face and jawline—but worried about long, visible scars? The Short Scar Facelift offers a modern solution for lifting and tightening the face using discreet, limited incisions hidden near the ears. Ideal for patients with early to moderate sagging, this technique delivers refreshed, youthful contours with less downtime and fewer risks.

What Is a Short Scar Facelift?

A Short Scar Facelift—also known as an S-lift, mini facelift, or limited incision facelift—is a cosmetic surgery that:

  • Lifts the lower face, jowls, and jawline
  • Uses shorter incisions hidden in the front of the ear or along the hairline
  • Requires less skin dissection and trauma than a full facelift
  • May tighten the SMAS layer for longer-lasting results

This technique is especially popular among patients in their 40s to early 60s looking for a subtle but effective lift without extended recovery or scarring.


Benefits of a Short Scar Facelift

  • Minimally visible scars hidden near the ears
  • Shorter recovery time than traditional facelift
  • Effective for early jowling and jawline sagging
  • Can be performed under local anesthesia or twilight sedation
  • Lower risk of complications
  • Natural-looking results—no “pulled” or overdone appearance


Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a great candidate if you:

  • Have mild to moderate sagging in the lower face
  • Are in your 40s to 60s
  • Want to define your jawline and reduce jowls
  • Have good skin elasticity
  • Prefer a less invasive approach to facial lifting
  • Want minimal visible scars

It’s not ideal for severe sagging or loose neck skin—those may require a full facelift or neck lift.


Procedure Overview

  • Anesthesia: Local with sedation or general (based on preference)
  • Incisions: Typically made in front of the ear, possibly extending slightly into the hairline
  • SMAS tightening: Optional—deeper muscle layer can be lifted for longer-lasting results
  • Skin redraping: Excess skin removed, and incisions closed with minimal tension
  • Surgery time: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Outpatient: Go home same day


Short Scar vs. Traditional Facelift

FeatureShort Scar FaceliftTraditional FaceliftIncision LengthShort, around the earLonger, around ear and into scalpRecovery Time5–10 days10–14+ daysTarget AreaLower face & jowlsLower face, jowls, and neckIdeal CandidateMild to moderate saggingModerate to severe saggingLongevity5–7 years8–12 years


Recovery Timeline

  • Days 1–3: Mild swelling and bruising
  • Days 4–7: Most discomfort resolves; sutures removed
  • Day 7–10: Return to light activities or work
  • 2–4 weeks: Most swelling disappears; results continue to improve
  • Final results: Visible by 4–8 weeks


How Long Do Results Last?

  • Results typically last 5 to 7 years
  • Maintenance with skin tightening, fillers, or Botox can extend results
  • Aging continues naturally but from a more youthful baseline


Short Scar Facelift Cost (Estimates)

RegionPrice Range (USD)South Korea₩4M – ₩8M ($3,000 – $6,000)USA / Canada$6,000 – $10,000UK / EU£5,000 – £9,000


Costs vary by clinic, surgeon experience, and anesthesia method.

Can It Be Combined with Other Procedures?

Yes! Popular combinations include:

  • Neck tightening (if needed)
  • Fat grafting or fillers for volume restoration
  • Skin resurfacing (laser, exosomes, or peels)
  • Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
  • Thread lifting or Botox for extra contouring



The Short Scar Facelift is ideal for patients seeking a natural, subtle lift without the extended incisions and downtime of a full facelift. It’s particularly suited for those starting to see the effects of aging in the lower face and want to act early with minimal scarring and fast recovery.

Considering a short scar facelift in Korea?
Clinics in Gangnam, Seoul offer advanced minimally invasive facelift techniques, expert surgeons, and English-speaking care for international patients.

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