Mini facelift (soft lift) in Bordeaux
The minilift, also known as a “soft lift”, is a less extensive and gentler version of the classic facelift. It is generally indicated for patients aged 40 to 50 with early skin laxity in the face and neck.
Written by Dr Maxence Thomas, plastic surgeon
Content reviewed on 13 October 2026 · RPPS 10101703519
- Type of anesthesia
- The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under **local anesthesia**.
- Hospitalization
- The patient is discharged from the clinic the same day as the procedure.
- Recovery
- **10 to 15 days** of social downtime are required.
What is a mini facelift?
The minilift, also called “soft lift”, is a version of the classic facelift with less extensive skin undermining, performed by Dr Maxence Thomas at the Clinique Esthétique Aquitaine in Bordeaux.
This procedure is generally indicated for patients aged 40 to 50 with early skin laxity in the face and neck.
Its aim is to achieve a natural rejuvenation of the face and neck in a minimally invasive way, with a quick recovery.
How does the procedure work?
Before the operation:
→ As before any surgical procedure, a complete preoperative assessment is carried out by the surgical team.
→ The patient should be in fairly good health, stop smoking, and discontinue possible blood thinning treatments.
What is the recovery like?
Duration of the procedure
It lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours and involves the same steps as a classic facelift, with a few differences:
→ Less extensive skin undermining (for a faster recovery)
→ The surgeon works mainly on the muscles (muscle tightening)
Scars
Discreet, they are placed in the natural creases of the face, in front of the ear and in the hair, and are barely visible. The patient must protect them from the sun to avoid permanent hyperpigmentation.
Post-operative course
Swelling is minimal and bruising is very slight (easily concealed with corrective make-up). Slight tightness in the face and neck may be felt during the first few days after the procedure.
What results can you expect?
The rejuvenation is visible as soon as the swelling subsides, with an almost immediate refreshed appearance.
→ Natural rejuvenation of the face and neck in a minimally invasive way
→ Quick recovery
→ Barely visible scars
How much does it cost?
From €5,450
A detailed quote is given after the consultation. For a cosmetic procedure, French law requires a cooling-off period of at least 15 days between the quote and the surgery.
FAQ
The scar is mostly hidden in the hair and around the ear.
The Urgotouch laser can be used immediately after surgery to help scars fade.
A minilift is performed under local anesthesia.
The procedure lasts 1 to 1.5 hours.
A minilift is an outpatient procedure: you leave the clinic the same day.
The minilift re-tightens the skin of the jawline, neck and cheeks to rejuvenate the lower face in a lasting way.
Over time, the skin will inevitably relax again as the natural aging process continues.
Pain after a facelift procedure is mild and can be controlled with common painkillers.
The results obtained with this type of procedure are natural and satisfying, with an improvement in the patient's appearance.
As with any procedure, there are risks, and complications may occur (bleeding, infection, wound dehiscence, scarring problems, neurological disorders, etc.). They are uncommon and can be managed promptly by the surgeon during post-operative check-ups. An information sheet from the French Society of Plastic Surgery will be given to you before the procedure.
Any other questions? Dr Thomas will answer them during the consultation.
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4.7/5 · 121 Google reviews« I recommend Dr. Thomas without hesitation. This is the second time he's performed my lip injections, and I'm once again delighted with the results. The work is meticulous, elegant, and above all, natural—exactly what I was looking for. He perfectly respects the facial structure, and the result is harmonious, without being overdone. I also want to thank his assistant, Béatrice, who is incredibly kind. Always smiling and welcoming, she makes you feel truly listened to and well taken care of from beginning to end. An excellent experience; I will definitely return. »
Coraline Hayward5 months ago« One year after my breast augmentation surgery, I wanted to warmly thank Dr. Thomas for his professionalism and outstanding work. The result is very successful, natural, and completely met my expectations. During my stay at the cosmetic surgery clinic, the entire team was incredibly kind, caring, and reassuring. I experienced very little pain, which surprised and relieved me greatly. I also want to acknowledge the doctor's secretary, who called me the day after the procedure to check on me—a very thoughtful and genuine gesture. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Thomas and his entire team. »
Raphaëlle Mazeau10 months ago« A huge thank you to surgeon Maxence Thomas, who took care of me. He's the best in the department. Excellent service. Special mention to surgeon Maxence Thomas and his team. Thank you for your kindness and for putting me at ease, and for the follow-up care you provided afterward. Very satisfied with the result, even after just one week. Impressive! I can't thank you enough. Thank you for this operation. So happy! Very welcoming. I highly recommend them. Highly professional and charming. I am extremely grateful. »
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