7 Reasons to Choose a MIMS Neck Lift
If you’ve been researching neck rejuvenation options, you’ve probably encountered a dizzying array of choices—from thread lifts to full surgical neck lifts, from injectable treatments to laser procedures.
That’s why Dr. R. Brannon Claytor developed his approach to the MIMS (Minimally Invasive Mastoid Sling) neck lift—a technique that bridges the gap between temporary non-surgical treatments and full surgical intervention. Here are seven reasons why it may be an excellent choice for your neck contouring goals.
1. Virtually Zero Visible Scarring
The MIMS technique’s sole incision is hidden behind the ear, in the natural crease where no one will ever notice it.
The goal of the MIMS neck lift isn’t just to tighten skin—it’s to recreate the beautiful angle between your chin and neck that defines a youthful profile.
2. Performed Under Local (Awake) Anesthesia
One of the most significant advantages of the MIMS procedure is that patients remain awake throughout—something that carries more benefits than you may initially realize:
- Reduced risks: General anesthesia carries inherent risks, including breathing complications, blood clots, and severe nausea. Local anesthesia eliminates these concerns.
- No post-operative grogginess: You’ll feel like yourself within hours, not days. That disoriented, foggy feeling common after general anesthesia simply isn’t part of this experience. Patients typically feel like themselves within hours, not days.
- Real-time communication: Because you’re awake and comfortable, you can communicate with me throughout the procedure. This collaborative approach allows for real-time feedback and adjustments.
- Faster overall recovery: Your body doesn’t need to process heavy anesthetic drugs, which means you’re back to feeling normal much sooner.
3. A Multi-Step Approach for Comprehensive Results
The MIMS technique isn’t a one-dimensional procedure—it’s a thoughtfully designed four-step approach that addresses all aspects of neck aging without lengthy scars:
- Tumescent numbing medication and epinephrine are injected into the treatment area via cannula to numb the area and minimize bruising.
- Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits that diet and exercise simply cannot eliminate, sculpting the foundation of the new neck contour.
- Through the same incision, heat energy is applied with treatments such as laser to gently tighten skin from the inside out by stimulating collagen production.
- The third step is suture suspension, which provides the structural support that makes results last. A permanent suture creates an internal “sling” that holds the jawline in its new, more youthful position; absorbable sutures are applied to increase collagen production for firmer skin; and hemostatic net sutures are applied (these will be removed after 4-5 days) to promote healing.
Because of the suture step, patients will see an initial wrinkle where the suture is applied. Dr. Claytor may also recommend microneedling to help smooth and even the skin, if needed, after you have healed.
Before and After a MIMS Neck Lift
4. Recovery Measured in Days, Not Weeks
Traditional neck lift surgery typically requires 10-14 days before patients feel comfortable appearing in public, with full recovery taking several weeks. Most MIMS patients return to desk work within 3-5 days, feel comfortable in social situations within a week, and resume normal activities—including light exercise—within 10-14 days.
5. Natural-Looking Results Without the “Overdone” Look
Dr. Claytor emphasizes that the goal of any rejuvenation procedure should be to help patients look like themselves—just refreshed and rested. The MIMS technique excels at creating this natural enhancement.
The permanent suture creates a subtle but powerful transformation. By anchoring to the strong tissue near the mastoid bone and pivoting the pull precisely, Dr. Claytor can recreate that coveted right angle under the chin—what surgeons call a sharp cervicomental angle—without creating the “windswept” or “pulled” appearance that many patients fear.
The MIMS technique allows Dr. Claytor to achieve a stunning transformation through a single, virtually invisible incision.
6. Ideal for Early to Moderate Aging Concerns
The MIMS neck lift fills an important gap for patients experiencing early neck laxity or “softening” along the jawline, mild to moderate neck bands (platysmal banding), submental fullness (the beginning of a “double chin”), or loss of definition at the jaw-neck junction. These patients often aren’t ready for—or don’t need—the full surgical intervention of a traditional neck lift. MIMS is designed for these patients.
7. Long-Lasting, Durable Results
Unlike non-surgical procedures that may require retreatment every 6-9 months as the sutures dissolve, the MIMS technique uses a permanent suture placed at a deeper tissue level. This creates genuine structural support, not just temporary lifting.
While no cosmetic procedure stops the aging process entirely, patients who undergo the MIMS neck lift can expect their results to last for years. Many patients find that this procedure delays or eliminates their need for more extensive surgical intervention down the road.
WATCH: How the MIMS Neck Lift Works
Dr. Claytor is constantly working on innovations to streamline recovery and provide stellar results with minimal downtime. Follow us on Instagram to stay up to date on his research and new procedure offerings!
Ready to learn whether the MIMS neck lift is right for you? We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Claytor at our Bryn Mawr office.