Liquid facelift creates more youthful and refreshed looked
A liquid facelift refers to a nonsurgical procedure achieved by using a combination of injectables and fillers to create a more youthful and refreshed look. Many patients find a liquid facelift to be a good alternative to facelift surgery or a way to prolong the need for surgery. While the effects of a liquid facelift are temporary, it is a quick and cost-effective way to achieve results that can mimic a surgical facelift (and can give a patient a preview of the results!).
A liquid facelift relies on common products such as Botox and fillers to both relax the muscles that cause lines and wrinkles (Botox) and fill lines and wrinkles (Juvederm, Restylane or Radiesse). When skillfully applied, injectables and fillers can create a “lifting” effect on hooded eyelids, sagging brows and jowls, and hollowness under the eyes and in the cheekbones–the most common age-related facial issues.
A liquid facelift is comprehensive treatment that’s especially effective in treating a combination of:
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Vertical neck bands
- Forehead lines and furrows
- “Bunny lines” on the sides of the nose
- Marionette lines around the mouth
- Thinning earlobes
- Thinning lips
- Hollowness under the eyes and in the cheeks
IDEAL CANDIDATES
You may be an ideal candidate for a liquid facelift if you have a series of the age-related symptoms listed above and would like to regain a more youthful appearance. As with all medical procedures, excellent candidates are those in good overall health and who have informed, realistic expectations. We serve clients from Savannah, Hilton Head and surrounding areas.
PREPARATION
An initial consultation with Dr. Minton is the first step to any procedure. There he will discuss your health history. Medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided as they can increase the likelihood of bruising.
THE LIQUID FACELIFT PROCEDURE
The procedure for a liquid facelift is fairly simple and relatively painless. Dr. Minton uses a very thin needle to inject small quantities of Botox and fillers into the targeted areas. The number of injections depends on the intensity of the wrinkles, your facial features, and desired results, all of which Dr. Minton will cover in the initial consultation.
Some injection sites are more sensitive than others, but Dr. Minton can use either ice or a topical anesthetic ointment to help alleviate any minor discomfort, which generally is nothing more than a brief stinging sensation.
AFTER THE PROCEDURE
The great thing about a liquid facelift is that there’s no downtime. You can get back to your normal activities almost immediately, though there may be some initial redness for a few minutes. Temporary bruising may occur, but applying ice packs tends to help. Bruising and any swelling will disappear within a few hours or just a few days.
You will begin to see results within a few days, but it will take up to a week to see the complete effect. Because fillers last about three times longer than an injectable like Botox, several follow-up treatments will be needed to maintain the effects for 6-9 months on average.
FAQS
How does a liquid facelift actually work?
Both fillers and Botox are injectable treatments that improve the look of wrinkles and can create a “lifting” effect on various parts of the face. Whereas Botox relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkling, fillers fills in the areas of volume loss, creating a more natural plumpness. This allows the skin to become smooth and more tight again. The combination treatment of Botox and fillers can temporarily mimic the effects of a surgical face lift and give a preview of what could be permanent results.
Is a liquid facelift safe?
A combination of injectables and fillers is a very safe treatment with very few risks or complications. However, it should not be used on women who are pregnant or nursing. A liquid facelift should not be used with some medications, which is why it’s important to give Dr. Minton information about any and all medications you are taking.
How long does a liquid facelift procedure take?
After the initial consultation, a series of injections only takes about 15 minutes.
Will it hurt?
Fillers are injected using a very fine needle, so while there is some initial discomfort–like a sting–it’s brief. Dr. Minton can use ice or a topical anesthesia to help ease any discomfort.
How long do the effects of a liquid facelift last?
The effects of a liquid face lift are temporary, but Botox injections last 3 to 4 months whereas fillers last 6 to 9 months. Touchups can extend the results even longer.
What if I’m not entirely satisfied with the results?
Sometimes “touch-up” injections are needed to get the best results. If you aren’t 100% satisfied with the procedure, Dr. Minton encourages you to call Savannah Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule a follow-up visit. However, you’ll want to wait about two weeks in order to see the full effects of the treatment.
Is a liquid facelift a good alternative to surgery?
Unlike surgery, the effects of a liquid face lift are not permanent, so it is not considered an alternative to face-lift surgery, but it can prolong the need for surgery. Additionally, it can be used as a way to “preview” the results of more permanent procedures.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Our skilled, double-board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Minton is available to discuss a liquid facelift in greater detail during a consultation at our Savannah Facial Plastic Surgery office in Savannah. We serve clients from Savannah, Hilton Head and surrounding areas. Arrange your consultation by contacting us today.
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