While everyone wants to look and feel younger, facelifts don’t address all facial aging concerns. Statistics show that there has been an increase in patients seeking non-surgical cosmetic enhancement to help them turn back the clock on facial aging. What’s more, there has been an uptick in the non-surgical facelift, also known as the “liquid” facelift.
Non-surgical or the liquid facelift is not really a lifting procedure. Instead, the liquid facelift uses volume restoration to address facial aging changes and can produce beautiful and remarkable results. Read on as Mt. Vernon facial plastic surgeon Jonathan Grant, M.D., F.A.C.S., explains what a non-surgical facelift can accomplish.
Components of a Non-Surgical Facelift
A non-surgical facelift can include several minimally invasive techniques to address mild to moderate signs of facial aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, creases, and thinning lips attributed to volume loss. Depending on your needs, your non-surgical facelift can include any of the following:
Botox®
Botox® is used to soften the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, which are a result of repeated facial expressions (e.g., smiling, laughing, and frowning). The neurotoxin temporarily relaxes the facial muscles responsible for moving facial skin during these expressions. As these muscles relax, the overlying wrinkles smooth out. Often used to treat crow’s feet, frown lines and forehead creases, Botox® can produce results that last an average of three months.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are a great option for patients who wish to soften shadows or deep skin creases without surgery. Fillers can be used in the cheeks, temples, lips and under the eyes. Different fillers are used in different areas of the face depending on their individual properties. Generally speaking, softer fillers are used for the lips, tear troughs and superficial skin wrinkles. Firmer fillers are often used deeper in areas such as the cheek to restore volume loss or the pre-jowl area (under the corners of the mouth). Results with dermal fillers can last six months to two years.
Fat Transfer
An alternative to dermal fillers, fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat to restore volume to sunken or flat facial areas, including the cheeks and under-eye area. During a fat transfer procedure, unwanted fat from a donor area (e.g., abdomen, hips, thighs) is removed through small incisions and a thin cannula. The fat is purified so only fat cells remain. The fat cells are re-injected into the face to restore volume. Results with fat transfer can last for several years.
Pros and Cons of a Non-Surgical Facelift
Pros:
- Usually a quick procedure
- Little discomfort during treatment
- Few (if any) incisions and scars
- Great for volume loss
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Less dramatic results
- Cannot treat loose skin issues due to volume loss
- Repeat treatments required to maintain results
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best treatment option for you will depend on your unique aesthetic needs and goals. To explore your surgical and non-surgical facelift options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation our Mt. Vernon facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Grant will work with you to design a personalized treatment plan.
Contact Dr. Grant’s practice by calling or emailing us today.
