What Are Non-Surgical Facelifts and How Do They Work?

Ageing can affect the skin’s elasticity, contributing to changes such as fine lines and wrinkles. Non-surgical facelift options are available, offering potential ways to address these signs in a less invasive manner compared to surgical procedures. 

But it’s essential to understand non-surgical treatments may still have varying results and limitations. A consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is important to discuss unique needs, potential outcomes, and the sustainability of such treatments for your circumstances.

What is a Non-Surgical Facelift?

Non-surgical facelifts include treatments that may address changes associated with ageing without surgical intervention. 

These methods, often minimally or non-invasive, can provide a lifting or tightening effect and may enhance facial volume. They are typically targeted towards areas that can show age-related changes, such as the jawline and forehead. 

However, as with all cosmetic procedures, surgical or not, no results are guaranteed and seeking professional advice to understand these treatment options and potential outcomes is highly encouraged.

What’s the difference between a Non-Surgical and a Surgical Facelift?

• Surgical Facelift: A surgical facelift involves making incisions, typically around the hairline and behind the ears, to lift and tighten the skin and muscles. Excess skin is removed, and deep layers of the face are repositioned. The results can be dramatic, but the procedure comes with longer recovery times, higher costs, and the potential risks associated with surgery, such as scarring, infection, and anaesthesia complications.

• Non-Surgical Facelift: In contrast, a non-surgical facelift uses treatments like dermal fillers, injections for wrinkles, and lasers to address signs of ageing without the need for cuts or stitches. The results are generally more subtle. Non-surgical facelifts are not permanent, and maintenance treatments may be required to maintain an effect. They also involve potential risks and complications, which may include temporary swelling, bruising, infection, allergic reactions, and others.

Who are the ideal candidates for a Non-Surgical Facelift?

Undergoing a non-surgical facelift is a decision that should be approached thoughtfully, with considerations for overall health and well-being. 

Rather than seeing oneself as needing to “qualify” for cosmetic procedures, being an appropriate candidate should be seen as involving thorough steps, including medical assessments, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) screening, and ensuring one’s physical and mental health are in good condition. 

These measures help ensure that individuals are well-informed and prepared for the potential outcomes and recovery of any cosmetic treatment.

Types of Non-Surgical Facelifts

1. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances, usually made of hyaluronic acid, that restore volume to areas like the cheeks, lips, and under-eye areas. Fillers plump the skin, smooth out wrinkles, and lift areas where loose skin has developed. Results typically last between six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used.

2. Injections to Minimise Wrinkles

Anti-Wrinkle injections are may be used to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions, such as crow’s feet and forehead lines. It works by temporarily relaxing the underlying muscles, preventing them from contracting and causing wrinkles. Results last around 3 to 6 months.

3. Fat Dissolving Injection Treatment

Fat-dissolving injections target small areas of unwanted fat under the chin or along the jawline.Multiple sessions may be required.

4. Skin Tightening Treatments

Skin tightening treatments, such as Ultherapy, work by delivering targeted ultrasound energy to the tissues of the face and neck. The device can treat tissue at three different depths, tightening the tissue and providing a “lifting” effect on the skin.

5. Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a non-surgical skin resurfacing treatment that removes the outer layers of skin. It is used for addressing fine lines, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. While results are immediate, there may be some redness and downtime as the skin heals.

6. Laser Treatments

Laser treatments work by targeting specific areas of the skin to remove damaged layers, promote collagen production, and stimulate the growth of new, healthy skin cells. These treatments are versatile and can address issues such as wrinkles, sun damage, and uneven pigmentation. 

Non-surgical facelifts can temporarily address certain changes related to the ageing process. Maintenance treatments may be required periodically, with results varying depending on individual circumstances. 

It is important to approach any cosmetic procedure with realistic expectations and thorough understanding. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional can provide insight into available options that may align with your specific situation. 

Always consider your well-being and ensure you feel comfortable throughout the entire process, from consultation to potential treatment. Your comfort and informed consent are key.

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.