Are Facelifts Becoming Obsolete?
By Ramsey J. Choucair, M.D.
The question may be asked, are facelifts becoming obsolete?
The answer is an unequivocal NO! But before you wholeheartedly accept this at face value, let’s explore the rationale for the support of facelift surgery in the era of injectable fillers and non-surgical facial rejuvenation techniques.
The Aging Face. First, let’s explore what happens as the face ages. A variety of things occur. The skin loosens, facial fullness or volume diminishes, and surface skin folds, as well as wrinkles, appear. The onset and degree of facial aging are dependent upon genetic factors and a variety of environmental influences such as sun damage.
The Options. Each of the characteristics of facial aging may require different treatment options. For instance, facial volume necessitates some form of injectable fillers. Surface wrinkles are best treated with either fillers or resurfacing modalities such as laser treatments or chemical peels. Improvement of skin laxity requires repositioning of the loose skin with various facelift procedures.
Attempting to apply a “one-size-fits-all” approach to facial rejuvenation will invariably lead to a less than natural, and oftentimes, distorted appearance.
The Non-Surgical Facelift. What about the often mentioned “filler-facelift” or “non-surgical facelift”? These marketing terms prey upon the natural tendency of any individual to desire reversal of facial aging without surgery or downtime. Who would not sign up for a non-surgical option if the desired outcome could be achieved without an incision?
A Real Facelift. There simply is no comparison when evaluating the quality and degree of rejuvenation that results from a well planned and executed facelift versus any attempt to rejuvenate the face with alternative, non-surgical techniques.
Ironically, the modern facelift may often result in less downtime than some non-surgical options. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon provides the best opportunity to learn about options to reverse facial aging.
When lax or loose skin contributes to the aging face, facelift surgery remains the safest, most effective, and longest-lasting method to restore a natural, youthful facial appearance.
To learn more about Dallas Plastic Surgeon, Ramsey J. Choucair, M.D. feel free to visit his website at http://www.drchoucair.com
