Facelift vs Fillers: Limitations and Considerations

Facelifts and fillers are two approaches to addressing signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loose skin. If you’re considering a facelift or filler, here is general information, outlining the potential benefits and limitations of each to help guide your decision.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified health professional to understand which option may best suit your individual needs, as results and suitability vary. All procedures carry potential risks, so a thorough consultation will help clarify expectations and determine the most appropriate approach for you.

How does each procedure work?

Facelift

A facelift is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing age-related changes in the face and neck. It involves making incisions near the hairline and around the ear, then lifting the skin and repositioning the underlying muscles and tissues. This procedure, typically performed under general anaesthesia, seeks to provide longer-lasting changes in the facial contours. It is important to note that all surgeries carry potential risks, and results vary.

Injections

Fillers are non-surgical treatments involving the injection of a gel-like substance into specific facial areas to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and make changes in facial features. Most fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to hydrate and plump the skin. Results from fillers are temporary and will vary between individuals. Consulting with a qualified healthcare provider can help determine if fillers are appropriate for your needs.

The Potential Benefits of a Facelift vs Fillers

Facelift

• Long-lasting results: A facelift may provide long-lasting results, ranging from 10 to 15 years, depending on individual factors.
• Customisable approach: The procedure can be tailored to the patient’s specific concerns, such as looseskin, marionette lines, deep wrinkles, and folds.
• May offer a more comprehensive treatment : A facelift targets to address multiple facial concerns,like loose skin, deep wrinkles, jowls, and neck bands.

Fillers

• Non-invasive option: Dermal fillers offer a non-surgical approach that typically requires minimal time, often taking around 15 minutes.
• May offer immediate results: Fillers can offer immediate effects with minimal downtime.
• Versatile application: Fillers can be used to address a range of concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss.

The Downside of Facelift vs Fillers

Facelift

• Invasive: A facelift is a surgical procedure that requires incisions, anaesthesia, and a recovery period of several weeks.
• Cost: A facelift can be more expensive than other options.
• Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a facelift, including infection, bleeding, and scarring.
• Longer recovery time: Recovery from a facelift can take several weeks, and patients may experience bruising and swelling.

Fillers

• Temporary results: While fillers can provide immediate results, they typically last between six months to two years, depending on each individual’s situation and the type of filler used.
• Cost: Over time, multiple filler treatments may become more expensive.
• Risk of complications: As with any procedure, there are risks associated with fillers, such as allergic reactions, infection, and lumps or bumps under the skin.
• Not suitable for all concerns: Fillers are not always suitable for patients with significant sagging skin or deep folds.

Which is right for you?

Deciding between a facelift and fillers depends on several factors, such as age, skin laxity, and aesthetic goals. A facelift may be a suitable option for individuals with significant loose skin, deep wrinkles, and facial folds.

Fillers, on the other hand, may be appropriate for addressing mild to moderate wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss. Some individuals choose fillers to complement the effects of a facelift or other surgical procedures.

It is essential to consult with a qualified health professional to determine which option best aligns with your unique needs and expectations. All procedures carry potential risks, and outcomes vary between individuals.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.