What Can a Facelift Achieve?
A facelift is a transformative surgical procedure designed to reverse many signs of facial ageing. The procedure often includes eyelid surgery being carried out at the same time.
A facelift involves:
- Removing excess skin,
- Repositioning deeper tissues and fat,
- Tightening muscles,
- Adjusting tissues below the skin to give a more youthful shape.
This technique primarily targets the mid to lower face and jawline, effectively lifting and tightening both skin and underlying muscles to remove excess skin.
Facelift procedures excel in addressing advanced signs of ageing, such as sagging cheeks, deep folds from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, and excess skin at the lower jawline.
By contouring the facial muscles, tightening loose skin, and adjusting facial fat pads, a surgical facelift significantly reduces wrinkles and creates more defined facial contours, as well as more rounded facial contours.
Additionally, facelifts can be combined with procedures like neck lifts to address skin laxity in the neck area, providing a more comprehensive rejuvenation. The result is a smoother, more youthful facial appearance that can last for many years, offering a significant improvement over non-surgical treatments.
Finding out what facelift is best for you starts with a consultation with one of our expert facial plastic surgeons.
What Can Dermal Fillers Achieve?
Dermal fillers are versatile, non-surgical treatments that can significantly enhance facial features and combat signs of ageing. These injectable treatments are used to replace lost facial fat volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours, providing a more youthful appearance.
Commonly treated areas include the lips, cheeks, temples, and forehead, where fillers can increase fullness and improve overall facial symmetry.
When comparing fillers vs other cosmetic procedures, it’s important to note that fillers can also correct moderate facial wrinkles but not really skin folds. They are effective in addressing acne scars on the cheeks.
By targeting specific areas, dermal filler injections can achieve a natural-looking enhancement without the need for invasive surgery, making them an attractive option for those looking for immediate results with minimal downtime.
However if there is loose skin and sag is too great, a plastic surgeon is likely to recommend a
When is it time to stop using fillers and have a facelift
While fillers like JUVÉDERM® and Restylane® are effective for many patients, there comes a point when they may no longer provide the desired results. Repeated use of fillers can sometimes lead to complications such as over filled look or pillow face look caused by too much dermal fillers or diminishing returns, as the skin continues to lose elasticity over time. When this happens, a mini or full facelift may be the best option for restoring a youthful appearance.
A number of celebrities have admitted that they no longer wanted the artificial and over filled look, these include Kristin Davis, Courtney Cox and Melanie Griffith. They all had their fillers dissolved.
A surgical facelift can address more pronounced signs of ageing that fillers cannot, such as significant skin laxity and deep wrinkles.
If you find that fillers are no longer achieving the desired effect, it may be time to consider a facelift surgery to maintain a more youthful look and achieve long-lasting results.
Ideal Candidates for Each Procedure
Determining the right procedure for your specific needs depends on various factors, including age, skin condition, and desired results. Facelift procedures are typically recommended for individuals with advanced signs of ageing, such as sagging skin and deep folds.
In contrast, younger patients with mild to moderate facial ageing and those seeking non-surgical options often find dermal fillers to be a suitable choice or they decide to have a mini facelift.
At What age should you consider a Facelift?
Good candidates for a facelift are generally individuals aged 40 to 65 who notice significant skin sagging and deep wrinkles. These procedures are ideal for those with sagging soft tissues, double chins, and jowls.
Facelift procedures can effectively contour the facial muscles, tighten loose skin, and provide a more youthful and defined facial appearance.
Older patients experiencing severe skin laxity around the jawline and neck may also benefit from combining a facelift with neck lift for a comprehensive rejuvenation.
Who Should Consider Fillers?
Dermal fillers are ideal for individuals seeking minimally invasive treatments to enhance their facial appearance. Younger patients, as well as those looking for non-surgical options, often find dermal fillers to be effective. These treatments are suitable for fine lines and wrinkles, and adding volume to areas like the lips and cheeks.
Non-smokers and individuals who prefer quick treatments with minimal downtime are also good candidates for dermal fillers. Dermal filler injections provide a way to achieve fullness and improved facial contours without the need for surgery.
Longevity and Maintenance of Results
The longevity and maintenance requirements of facelift and fillers vary significantly. Facelift results tend to last much longer around 10 to 15 years if you look after your skin, while dermal fillers require regular touch-ups every 12 to 18 months to maintain results.
How Long Do Facelift Results Last?
A standard facelift can result in a youthful appearance that lasts from 10 to 15 years, depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Mini facelifts, while less invasive, generally offer results lasting around ten years. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and sun exposure play a significant role in the longevity of facelift results.
Unlike dermal fillers, a facelift offers a long-term solution for addressing advanced signs of facial aging. Some benefits of a facelift include:
- No maintenance required post-surgery,
- Permanent results,
- Addresses multiple signs of aging,
- Can improve self-confidence and self-esteem.
These factors make facelift procedures an attractive option for individuals seeking a more permanent solution to their aging concerns.
How Long Do Dermal Filler Results Last?
The effects of dermal fillers are temporary, typically lasting between six to eighteen months, depending on the type of filler used and individual factors such as metabolism and injection site. Some formulations can last up to two years, providing a more extended period of youthful appearance.
To maintain the appearance achieved with dermal fillers, touch-up treatments are necessary once or twice a year. Regular maintenance ensures that the results remain consistent, but it also means a recurring commitment to the treatment process.
Recovery Process Comparison
The recovery time for facelifts and dermal fillers varies significantly, which can influence your decision on which treatment to choose. Facelifts require a more extended recovery period, while dermal fillers offer a much shorter downtime.
Recovery After a Facelift
Recovery from a facelift typically involves:
- Visible bruising and swelling that can last for several weeks,
- Stitches being removed within 7 to 14 days post-surgery,
- Keeping the head elevated and avoiding strenuous activities to reduce swelling and promote healing,
- Taking up to two weeks or more before feeling ready to return to work,
- Waiting a month before being cleared to resume exercise.
Post-facelift care includes follow-ups with the surgeon to monitor healing and remove stitches. Patients need to be patient during the recovery process to ensure the best possible outcome and minimise complications.
Recovery After Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers have a much shorter recovery time compared to facelifts. Most patients can return to their normal activities almost immediately after the procedure. Some common side effects include mild swelling, bruising, and an ‘overfilled’ appearance, which typically resolve within a few days.
To minimise these side effects, it is recommended to avoid intense physical activity for the first 24-48 hours after receiving dermal filler injections. This minimal downtime makes dermal fillers an appealing option for those looking for quick and effective facial rejuvenation without significant disruption to their daily routine.
Cost Considerations
When considering the costs of facelifts and dermal fillers, it’s prudent to weigh the immediate and long-term expenses.
For facelift surgery, there is a one-time fee that covers:
- The procedure,
- Surgeon’s fees,
- Hospital fees,
- Anaesthesia costs,
- Pre and post operative costs.
Although the upfront cost is higher, the long-lasting results can make it a more cost-effective solution over time.
In contrast, dermal fillers are priced per syringe, and the total cost depends on the type of filler, the number of syringes used, and the number of treatments required. While the initial cost may be lower, the need for regular touch-up treatments can add up over time, making it essential to consider the cumulative expenses when choosing this option.
Combining Both Procedures or Fat transfer
For those seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation, combining facelift procedures with dermal fillers or natural fat transfer can work. This approach addresses both sagging skin and volume loss, including facial fat volume, resulting in:
- A more youthful appearance,
- Improved facial contours,
- Reduced wrinkles and fine lines,
- Restored facial volume,
- Enhanced self-confidence.
By combining these two procedures, patients can achieve a more balanced and natural-looking enhancement.
Facelift surgery targets the deeper tissues and skin laxity, while dermal fillers add volume to areas with fine lines and wrinkles.
At Kensington Medical our expert facial surgeon can advise if a combined fat transfer and facelift will help if you have excessive volume loss or if you want to remove dermal fillers.
Consulting with a Professional
Before deciding on a facelift or dermal filler treatment, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified medical professional. Ensure the practitioner explains the procedure details, including duration, need for anaesthesia, and recovery expectations.
The plastic surgeons should be on the GMC register and specialist register for their specialisation. You will want to know that they are based in the UK and that all procedures are carried out in the UK.
To find out about expert plastic surgeons click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do facelift results typically last?
Facelift results typically last from ten to fifteen years for standard facelifts, and around ten years for mini facelifts. To find out more click facelift surgery.
What is the recovery time for dermal fillers?
The recovery time for dermal fillers is minimal, with most patients being able to return to their normal activities almost immediately. Any mild swelling or bruising usually resolves within a few days.
What are the main differences between a facelift and dermal fillers?
The main difference between a facelift and dermal fillers is that facelifts are surgical procedures providing long-lasting results, while dermal fillers are non-surgical, minimally invasive treatments with shorter recovery times.
How often do dermal fillers need to be maintained?
Dermal fillers generally need touch-up treatments every six months to 18 months, based on the type of filler used and individual factors. Regular maintenance is key to achieving the desired results.
What should I consider when choosing between a facelift and dermal fillers?
Consider your cosmetic concerns, budget, recovery time, and potential side effects when choosing between a facelift and dermal fillers. Consulting with an experienced cosmetic clinic can help determine the best procedure for your needs.
