MIMS Neck Lift vs. MyEllevate: What’s the Difference?
If you are planning to talk to a plastic surgeon about minimally invasive neck lift options, you’ve probably come across the term MyEllevate—a minimal-downtime, “awake” lift that is intended to define the jawline and erase a “turkey neck” appearance. You may have also seen references to the minimally-invasive mastoid sling (MIMS) neck lift.
While these procedures both can be performed with local anesthesia, there are critical differences. Philadelphia neck rejuvenation expert Dr. R. Brannon Claytor developed the MIMS technique specifically to address limitations he observed in existing minimally invasive approaches like MyEllevate, leveling up both the outcomes patients see and the longevity of the results.
What These Procedures Have in Common
Both MIMS and MyEllevate share several features that make them appealing alternatives to traditional neck lift surgery:
- Awake procedure: Both can be performed under local anesthesia, allowing you to communicate with Dr. Claytor during the procedure and eliminating the risks and recovery associated with general anesthesia.
- Incision placement: Both use an incision hidden behind the ear, with sutures anchored in this area.
- Preparatory steps: Dr. Claytor precedes both procedures with liposuction to remove stubborn fat deposits and energy-based skin tightening to stimulate collagen production. This creates a sculpted foundation before suture placement.
- Minimal downtime: Both procedures allow most patients to return to normal activities within days rather than weeks.
The goal of both procedures is the same: to lift and support the muscles and glands whose sagging causes an ill-defined jawline and “turkey neck” appearance.
What Makes MIMS Different
While the procedures share a common foundation, the MIMS neck lift incorporates key innovations that affect both the quality and longevity of results:
Deeper, more durable anchoring
MyEllevate places a suture through the skin, but MIMS places the first suture under the fascia—right on top of the mastoid bone—then doubles it back under the skin. This anchors the suture to the incredibly strong fascia rather than softer tissue, creating a longer-lasting, more durable result. Think of it like hanging a heavy picture: you can attach the wire to drywall, and it will hold for a while, but if you anchor it to a stud, it’s going to stay where you put it. The fascia over the mastoid bone is our stud.
A multi-suture approach for better outcomes
MyEllevate stops at a single suture. MIMS takes the neck lifting technique further with additional sutures that serve distinct purposes:
- Permanent mastoid sling suture: Anchored to the fascia over the mastoid bone, this provides the primary structural support that holds the jawline in its new position.
- Monocryl absorbable sutures: These stimulate collagen production for firmer skin over time.
- Hemostatic net sutures: Removed after three days, these temporary sutures promote optimal healing by preventing hematoma and seroma while encouraging the superficial skin tissue to adhere to the deeper structures—maintaining a refined result for years.
Results from every angle
One of the most telling views of neck rejuvenation is the “onderkant” angle—the view from underneath and behind. Many patients focus on what they see in the mirror straight-on, but the profile and underside of the jawline reveal the true quality of a neck lift result. The MIMS technique is specifically designed to create a gorgeous, defined contour from this challenging angle, not just from the front.
WATCH: How MIMS Works + Real Patient Before & After
What to Expect During Recovery
Because MIMS uses multiple suture types, patients will notice some temporary effects as healing progresses. The monocryl sutures create temporary puckering of the skin, and the hemostatic net sutures leave behind some surface-level redness and swelling. Both resolve over the course of about a month, leaving behind a beautiful, strong jawline contour.
Most patients return to desk work within three to five days, feel comfortable in social situations within a week, and resume normal activities—including light exercise—within ten to fourteen days. The initial recovery period requires patience and possibly some “social downtime,” but the payoff is a result built to last.
Who Is a Candidate for MIMS?
The MIMS neck lift is designed for patients experiencing early to moderate neck aging: softening along the jawline, mild to moderate neck bands, early submental fullness (“double chin”), or loss of definition at the jaw-neck junction. These patients often don”t need the full intervention of a traditional neck lift but want more meaningful, longer-lasting results than a other medspa treatments can provide.
The goal is to recreate the angle between chin and neck that defines a youthful profile—and to do it in a way that lasts.
Patients with more advanced neck aging, significant skin excess, or pronounced platysmal banding may be better served by a traditional neck lift or facelift. During your consultation, Dr. Claytor will evaluate your anatomy and discuss which approach will best achieve your goals.
Dr. R. Brannon Claytor
Dr. Claytor is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and holds over 20 years of experience as a cosmetic plastic surgeon. An innovator and teacher in the field of plastic surgery, he uses advanced techniques like the drain-free tummy tuck and deep plane facelift to streamline recovery and provide natural-looking, durable results.
Schedule Your Consultation
Choosing between neck rejuvenation options starts with understanding your anatomy and goals. Dr. Claytor invites you to schedule a consultation at our Bryn Mawr office, where we’ll evaluate your concerns and recommend the approach that makes the most sense for you.