The gradual appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is common as people age. The skin becomes thinner and loses volume; eventually, gravity takes its toll, and facial skin begins to sag or droop. Fortunately, many options are available to people wanting a renewed and refreshed look.
Surgical procedures such as facelifts have been an option for many years. Recently, however, non-surgical choices have risen in popularity. Wrinkle relaxers like Botox and dermal fillers have created a new approach to diminishing facial flaws. Those who wish to improve their skin condition and elasticity may hesitate to choose surgery. So, which treatment is most beneficial for you?
Resurgence Of Facelifts
Cosmetic procedures have continued their rise in popularity over the last decade. Amid this popularity, we find patients electing to undergo facelift procedures. The number of facelifts surgeons performed in 2022 rose eight percent from 2019.
The resurgence of facelifts–known as rhytidectomy–may have occurred because patients want long-lasting solutions. While wrinkle relaxers and minimally invasive procedures are effective, patients will require additional treatment after several months to maintain results. Surgical options such as facelifts produce long-term results and may be less expensive and more convenient in the long run for some patients.
Who Is A Candidate?
Facial surgery isn’t limited to a specific age group. As with other cosmetic procedures, anyone who has a concern or flaw could qualify as a candidate for surgery. The main requirement is that the patient be healthy enough to undergo surgery. It’s also important to ensure the surgeon feels plastic surgery will address the candidate’s concerns. While the best facial surgeon Seattle offers will tailor the procedure to the individual’s needs, patients should always have realistic ideas about surgical outcomes.
Length Of Surgery & Recovery
The length of surgery and recovery will depend on several variables. For instance, a procedure primarily focused on one or two areas of concern will generally require a shorter surgery and recovery than one addressing multiple issues.
While the recovery time for a surgical procedure is longer than for a non-invasive approach, the long-lasting effects and lower maintenance of surgery appeal to many patients. The recovery period for a facelift is typically around four to six weeks. Bruising and swelling may take more or less time to diminish, depending on the extent of the procedure. Most patients of facelift Seattle surgery return to work and normal activities within one to three weeks.
Risks Of Facelifts
As with any procedure, facelift surgery comes with some level of risk. The most likely risk would be potential infection or blood clots. Fortunately, surgical options have seen dramatic improvements in effectiveness and safety. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facelifts is the best way to ensure patients have safe procedures with satisfying results.
Types Of Incisions
Surgeons use three incision types for facelifts and neck lifts. The location of the incision will depend on the area of the face that needs treatment.
- Traditional Facelift
The surgeon makes this incision at the temples, continuing down to the ear and around the lobs toward the hairline. Using this technique, the surgeon will remove excess skin from the upper and lower portions of the face before tightening the remaining tissue to create a smoother, wrinkle-free appearance.
- Limited
Surgeons can use this smaller cut when treating more minimal signs of aging. This incision starts at the top of the ear and extends downward, stopping before the hairline. This procedure can still produce the desired effect and has the benefit of being a less invasive answer to the traditional facelift.
- Neck Lift
Although a traditional facelift may include a neck lift, surgeons can perform this procedure separately. The surgeon makes the incision for the neck lift at the base of the ear, continuing around the lobe to the scalp. This procedure allows the surgeon to tighten skin near the neck and jawline.
Comparing Fillers And Facelifts
Though intended to reduce signs of facial aging, fillers are best suited to wrinkle and line treatment. Facelifts are more efficient when treating severe aging, such as deep wrinkles and facial sagging.
The difference between facelifts and fillers isn’t just what they accomplish but how they achieve it. Temporary solutions like fillers and Botox aren’t satisfactory for some patients, even when it would mean avoiding surgery. Some patients elect to have surgery rather than undergo treatments every few months.
Types Of Injectable Fillers
- Neurotoxins like Botox are the most common choice among patients who want to reduce wrinkles immediately. Neurotoxins temporarily limit and relax muscle movement. With regular use, this medicine can help prevent future lines and wrinkles from forming.
- Dermal fillers temporarily add lift and volume to areas of the face that have drooped with age. Patients choose dermal fillers to create more prominent cheeks or even as a non-surgical option for rhinoplasty, often referred to as a nose job.
Limitations Of Fillers
While dermal fillers can be a good option for patients who want to avoid surgery, they do have some notable limitations. The biggest drawback of fillers and Botox is that they are temporary and require regular injection sessions to maintain results. Another concern is the possibility of too many sessions of these injections causing an unnatural and stiff appearance. If large or multiple areas of concern exist, the patient may require a surgical facelift to achieve the desired results.
Role Of Surgery In Facial Rejuvenation
Patients with more severe signs of aging, such as loose and sagging facial skin and jowls, will benefit from surgical intervention. During a facelift, the surgeon will tighten the facial and neck tissue to create a smoother, younger profile. Facelifts provide corrections that produce long-lasting results and stunning outcomes.
Consulting Right Facial Surgeon
The number of facelifts performed is increasing due to the long-term and satisfying results. These factors outweigh the risks of surgery along with the recovery period. The location and type of incision for facelift surgery will depend upon the areas that require treatment. While fillers might be a good temporary solution for some, they have limitations and aren’t as effective when addressing severe issues.
Consulting a skilled plastic surgeon is the first step to a youthful appearance. The best facial surgeon for each patient will make them confident and comfortable as they choose between surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
