Over time skin loses elasticity, facial features thin and start to sag and the effects of ageing become more evident on the face.  This usually happens round about in our 50’s. It is usually around this time that people start to consider having a face lift.  For years face lifts have been a common aesthetic procedure, but more recently, non-surgical face lifts have seen a dramatic increase in popularity.  But which should you choose?  Which is best for you? And why?  Here we will look at the pros and cons of both surgical and non-surgical face lifts, to help you make your decision.

What is a surgical face lift?

A surgical face lift is a procedure called a Rhytidectomy, in which the soft tissue of the lower and mid face range (as well as the neck) are repositioned and contoured to create a more youthful appearance.  Surgical facelifts address many areas including:

• Sagging cheeks
• Deep creases
• Dropping jowls
• Excess skin
• Excess fat

What is a non-surgical face lift?

A non-surgical face lift includes a range of non-surgical techniques such as:

• Botox
• Dermal Fillers
• Fat transfer
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
• Ultrasound
• Laser treatments
• Kybella
• Laser lifts

Usually there is no need for anaesthesia and minimal recovery time.

Pros and Cons of a surgical facelift

Pros:

• Tighter facial muscles
• Repair of loose skin
• Improve facial contours
• Long-lasting effect (the results of a facelift can be seen for years)

Cons:

• Longer recovery time
• More aftercare required
• More expensive
• Higher risks

Pros and Cons of a non-surgical facelift

Pros:

• More cost effective
• Less painful
• Shorter procedure time
• Naturally rejuvenated look
• Minimal recovery time
• Minimal aftercare
• Fewer risks

Cons:

• Regular touch-ups are required
• Costs increase over the years as follow-up treatments are needed
• The effects might not be as drastic as a surgical facelift, although this really depends on the person and the treatment.

Choosing between a surgical and non-surgical face lift

Before you do anything you should consult a specialist in aesthetics.  Undergoing a consultation with an experienced specialist practitioner will not only help to answer any questions you might have but it will also help you to make the decision between a surgical and non-surgical face lift.  The physician will analyse you and understand your desired look and expectations, they will also take into account your medical history and any medications you might be taking.  Following this consultation they will then advise you on the best course of treatment for your budget and your desired look.

Choosing a company

Do not choose the cheapest plastic surgeon or aesthetic specialist, instead do your research and choose someone you can be confident is going to do a good job and give you the best advise (rather than pushing the most expensive treatment). 

Things to consider first:

• What experience do they have?
• What qualifications do they have?
• Are they using the latest technology and treatments?
• How many years have they been practicing?
• What is their price like in comparison to their competitors?
• Do they have good customer satisfaction? Ideally you should be able to view other patients reviews and recommendations.
• Are they able to deliver what they are promising?  Are they managing your expectations properly, or are they just trying to make a sale?

Now you are armed with all the information you need, you can start looking for an aesthetic specialist to help you make the decision between surgical or non-surgical.