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4 Your Health: Mini Facelift

By Courtny Gerrish

MILWAUKEE - Are you looking for a way to turn back the clock that won't break the bank? Some folks are getting a lift in confidence thanks to some modifications on an old procedure.

As a freelance voiceover talent, Vicki Fischer always stretches her vocal muscles. As a makeup artist, she makes it her mission to make others look good. But now Vicki's pampering herself--thanks to her recent Mini Facelift.

"It's really helpful, it's something that just keeps you ahead of the clock," Vicki says.

Vicki's transformation was not overly dramatic, but enough for a woman who's only in her fifties, and looking for a slight edge. "It's an unusual world out there, and everyone needs to look as good on the outside as they feel on the inside," Vicki reasons.

Dr. Mark Blake is a plastic surgeon at the Clinic of Cosmetic Surgery in Milwaukee. He says Mini Facelifts are a popular option right now.

"Definitely. Away from the costlier, more expensive things, to a little less invasive," Dr. Blake explains.

Most Mini Facelifts involve a small incision around the ear--unlike a typical facelift, which extends into the hairline.

"You look at which specific features you're trying to improve upon, and piece those together to create the proper procedure for the patient," Dr. Blake says.

For Vicki, Dr. Blake focused on a few key areas: A brow lift to open up her eyes, tightening the neckline, and he did some laser resurfacing around the eyelids to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

"She didn't want to have anything that was extremely aggressive," Dr. Blake explains.

On today's visit, Vicki is getting a fat transfer. It adds volume to the face and fills in deep wrinkles. "I would recommend it to anybody, it's just great, and it'll stay that way," Vicki beams.

While a full facelift takes weeks or months to heal, a Mini Facelift heals in about a week or two, which is good news for a woman like Vicki who's always on the go!

"I'm delighted, it's great. It's quick, easy," Vicki says.

So while Vicki continues to help others look beautiful, she's happy she can take a few shortcuts to help turn back her clock!

"You must have realistic expectations. I don't want to be 25, or 35, or 45--well, maybe 45, but anyway, it's really true, you have to have realistic expectations," Vicki warns.

Like any elective procedure, Mini Facelifts aren't for everybody. The older you are, the less likely you are to see results. These procedures usually cost significantly less than a normal facelift.

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