A facelift is a popular way to take years off your appearance. But did you know you have various facelift options to address your unique needs? Should you choose a surgical facelift that offers long-lasting, dramatic results? Would a mini facelift be better? Or would a nonsurgical “liquid” facelift with BOTOX and fillers best suit your needs?

If you’re asking yourself, “What does a facelift or its alternatives really do,” here’s a quick guide to help you weigh the pros and cons of facelift surgery vs. BOTOX and dermal fillers.

What should you consider before getting a facelift?

Choosing to get a facelift is a decision you don’t take lightly—and neither do we. We understand that your decision to get a facelift means you are making a considerable commitment and investment in yourself. I always ask patients:

• What do you want to address by having this procedure?
• How drastic or noticeable do you want your results to be?
• How quickly do you want to see results?
• How long do you want your results to last?
• How much time can you allow for recovery?

Answering these questions honestly will help me guide you toward whether a surgical facelift, mini facelift, or liquid facelift is the best solution for your needs.

Facelift Options

Surgical Facelift

A full surgical facelift is often considered the “gold standard” of facelifts. It addresses significant signs of aging, such as:

• Wrinkles and deep folds around the mouth
• Sagging jowls
• Loose skin along the neck
• Hollow or flat cheeks

Your surgeon will make incisions along your hairline from your temple to the base of your ears to tighten, lift, and smooth the underlying tissue of your lower face. They may also make a small incision under your chin to tighten and smooth your neck. Your surgeon will then re-drape the skin before closing your incisions.

A facelift requires a longer recovery (2 to 3 weeks) than a mini facelift or nonsurgical procedure, but patients achieve long-lasting, natural, and transformative results. A surgical facelift can take 6 to 10 years off your appearance!

Mini Facelift

A mini facelift requires a minimal approach, addressing skin laxity in the cheek area. If you are experiencing early signs of aging with minor sagging and drooping and you (and your skin) are not quite ready for a full facelift, a mini facelift may be a great option. This procedure requires smaller incisions and less recovery time (1 week to 10 days) than a full facelift.

Nonsurgical (Liquid) Facelift

With a liquid facelift, injectables take center stage instead of incisions. I recommend this approach for patients with minor concerns who prefer minimal recovery time. Dermal fillers such as JUVÉDERM® and Restylane® products restore volume and deliver a natural look without surgery. BOTOX® Cosmetic is another safe, effective injectable that smooths expression lines around the forehead, brow, and eyes.

BOTOX and fillers are popular because they reduce the signs of aging without surgery and with virtually no recovery time. However, results are less dramatic and temporary, lasting 6 months to 2 years. To maintain your results, you’ll need to schedule regular touch-up treatments.

Let our team help you decide which facelift approach is right for you. Contact us today to request a consultation online or call us at (203) 689-5295.