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What are the Different Types of Non-Surgical Face Lifts?
Different types of non-surgical face lifts include procedures that are less invasive than surgical face lifts and that do not necessitate a long recovery period. Non-surgical face lifts typically have a lower incidence of complications and are generally well tolerated. Common types of non-surgical face lifts include injections of substances into the facial tissues. One such example is Botox®. Injecting the tissue with Botox® works by relaxing facial muscles to smooth skin and reduce the look of wrinkles and imperfections.
Other types of non-surgical face lifts include collagen injections. This procedure involves the injection of collagen in the skin, which raises tissues, decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen is a protein that is naturally found in skin, and is considered a safe alternative to surgical face lifts. Another chemical that is used as a facial injection is called hyaluronic acid. This chemical provides similar results as collagen does, however, it may be more expensive. Hyaluronic acid is a sugar that is also found in the human body.
Skin resurfacing procedures are popular types of non-surgical face lifts as well. Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion work to resurface the skin, revealing a fresh layer of unblemished tissue. These procedures, although they provide satisfactory results, may cause significant redness and inflammation immediately after the procedure. These effects may last for days, and may cause mild to moderate pain to the patient. If pain and swelling develop, symptoms can be minimized with anti-inflammatory medications and applying ice.
Thermage® and Titan® are popular types of non-surgical face lifts. These techniques refer to skin-tightening procedures. These treatments use heat to warm the deep layers of the dermis to elicit a healing response. Generally, this response promotes collagen production, allowing underlying tissue to contract, which results in an uplifted appearance and tighter skin. Although results may vary, patients can expect to enjoy a freshening of the face, however, expecting to erase 20 years is not realistic.
Typically, the results of non-surgical face lifts can be encouraging, however, some patients may not see dramatic differences, especially in those individuals who have excessive facial fat, or who have extremely loose skin. These procedures can be a viable alternative, however, for people who are poor surgical candidates, and for young patients who prefer to not undergo more invasive surgical procedures. Healing and results may also depend on the patient's lifestyle, healing response and characteristics of existing skin.
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![A diagram of younger and older skin showing the decrease in collagen in older skin. Various techniques can be used to help boost collagen production and make the skin smoother.]()
By: AlilaA diagram of younger and older skin showing the decrease in collagen in older skin. Various techniques can be used to help boost collagen production and make the skin smoother. -
![Botox injections paralyze the face's muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.]()
By: GaudiLabBotox injections paralyze the face's muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. -
![Microdermabrasion treatments often use an exfoliating cream that contains aluminum oxide or glycolic acid.]()
By: luiscarcellerMicrodermabrasion treatments often use an exfoliating cream that contains aluminum oxide or glycolic acid. -
![Some dermatologists and estheticians offer laser procedures that may be an alternative to traditional face lifts.]()
By: spotmatikphotoSome dermatologists and estheticians offer laser procedures that may be an alternative to traditional face lifts. -
![Ice may be helpful in reducing inflammation associated with skin resurfacing procedures.]()
By: Kimberly ReinickIce may be helpful in reducing inflammation associated with skin resurfacing procedures. -
![Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion can be used to resurface the skin of the face.]()
By: Photographee.euDermabrasion and microdermabrasion can be used to resurface the skin of the face. -
![People who undergo skin resurfacing procedures may experience mild to moderate pain.]()
By: JPagetRFphotosPeople who undergo skin resurfacing procedures may experience mild to moderate pain. -
![Facial toning is considered to be the safest form of non-surgical face lift.]()
By: brankatekicFacial toning is considered to be the safest form of non-surgical face lift.
Discussion Comments
@spotiche5- I have had Restylane injections to fill in facial lines, and I am very happy with the results. This type of filler is a member of the new generation of facial fillers that last longer than collagen and pose fewer risks for allergic reactions.
Though I would recommend this type of non-surgical face lift to anyone who wants to reduce the signs of aging, it is important to understand your expectations before getting facial filler injections. Though they do make you look better, non-surgical methods may not be the best answers for people for people who want to correct excessive, drooping facial skin.
@spotiche5- My aunt has had Botox and several injectable facial fillers, and she does look a lot younger than before she had these procedures. The Botox helps by reducing frown lines, while the fillers plump up wrinkles and hollows.
For anyone who wants to look a little younger without going through invasive surgery, I think these non-surgical options are great alternatives.
The thought of having a non-surgical face lift sounds great, but almost too good to be true. Does anyone have actual experience with these procedures, and if so, do they really make noticeable differences in aging faces?
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