A facelift (rhytidectomy) has typically been the go-to procedure for addressing signs of aging in the lower part of the face. But with advancements in the aesthetic industry, alternatives like the non-surgical or liquid facelift can rejuvenate areas that traditional facelifts cannot without incisions, general aesthesia, or recovery time.
At Art of Lines MD, Dr. Naz has embraced injectables as a less invasive means of facial rejuvenation due to their versatility, safety, and long-lasting results. We provide non-surgical or liquid facelift options in North Vancouver for under-eye sagging, jowls, dark circles, wrinkles, nasolabial folds, and facial symmetry.
In this blog, we’ll explore the non-surgical facelift in greater detail to help you decide if it’s the right facial rejuvenation treatment.
What Defines a Non-Surgical or Liquid Facelift?
A non-surgical facelift, or liquid facelift, is a cosmetic procedure designed to create a more youthful facial appearance by using a combination of injectable dermal fillers and neurotoxins, like Botox® or Dysport, to correct various signs of aging. This innovative approach offers patients a minimally invasive alternative to achieve smoother skin and balanced facial contours.
The key to a successful liquid facelift is the skillful application of dermal fillers, which are substances that add volume to targeted areas.
How Does a Liquid Facelift Differ From Surgical Facelift Procedures?
A surgical facelift is performed with the patients under general anesthesia and focuses on reducing sagging skin and wrinkles caused by aging or dramatic weight loss. A facelift surgeon will remove excess skin, tighten the underlying muscles, and re-drape the skin in a higher position on the lower facial region. It typically does not address areas of the upper face, including the eyes, cheeks, or forehead, and it also will not address the area below the neck. A surgical facelift can take two to three hours to complete and requires at least six weeks of recovery.
On the other hand, a liquid facelift uses dermal fillers and neurotoxins to restore facial volume, reduce wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. It can be completed in less than an hour and requires little to no downtime.
What Types of Products Are Used in a Non-Surgical Facelift?
A non-surgical facelift at Art of Lines MD includes these facial rejuvenation options:
- Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers hydrate the skin, stimulate collagen production, add volume, and smooth lines, wrinkles, and folds using a viscous hyaluronic acid injectable gel.
- Botox: Botox reduces the appearance of fine lines by temporarily preventing repetitive facial movements. Botox results in a refreshed, soft, and more youthful version of yourself.
- Belkyra: Belkyra is a non-surgical injectable solution for improving the appearance of a double chin. Deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance that aids the body’s digestion, is injected into the chin, permanently destroying fat cells.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate For a Liquid Facelift?
Ideal candidates for a liquid facelift should be in good overall health and looking to improve signs of aging or facial contours without surgery. At Art of Lines MD, we do require that patients meet these prerequisites:
- Patients should be at least 21 years of aging
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Non-smokers
- Not currently be pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have no history of neuromuscular diseases
- Have realistic expectations and a positive outlook
What Results Can You Expect From a Non-Surgical Facelift?
A non-surgical facelift can result in dramatic improvements in the following areas:
- The Jawline—Patients who undergo a liquid facelift look years younger after filler was used to add definition to their chin, jawline, jowls, and marionette lines. For men, adding definition to the chin and jawline can create more masculine contours and a youthful appearance.
- Under-eye Bags—Adding support and structure to the midface creates a soft foundation for under-eye filler, which smooths out under-eye circles and bags, making patients look well-rested and rejuvenated.
- Eliminates a double chin— When Belkyra is injected into the submental fat beneath the chin, it breaks down to reveal a more defined and contoured chin line.
- Tightens jowls— Loose skin around the chin and jawline can significantly disturb a person’s facial contours. When Botox® is strategically injected into the facial muscles, it provides a noticeable but natural lift.
- Reduces deep wrinkles— Deep wrinkles are treated with both dermal fillers, which add lost volume to facial features, and Botox®, which helps to relax facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles.
How Long Will the Results of a Liquid Facelift Last?
The results of a liquid facelift can last anywhere from eight months to a year, depending on how well patients care for their skin and how fast their body metabolizes. We encourage our patients to protect their skin from the sun, as UV rays break down dermal fillers and Botox at a faster rate. We also recommend that patients moisturize their skin with a quality facial moisturizer. As needed, results can be maintained with regular maintenance treatments schedule every six to eight months.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Non-Surgical Facelifts?
While the risks associated with a non-surgical facelift aren’t as severe as with a surgical facelift, a liquid facelift does have some side effects, including:
- Bruising at the injection sites
- Minor swelling
- Redness or irritation
- Tenderness
- Minor tightness or discomfort when laughing or smiling
What is the Recovery Process Like for a Non-Surgical Facelift?
Recovery after a non-surgical facelift is usually minimal, but exact recovery times will vary among individuals depending on the extent of their customized treatment. Patients can usually expect minor swelling and redness around the injection sites, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. Any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication, and most patients are comfortable returning to their normal routines upon leaving our office.
How Often Should You Repeat Liquid Facelift Procedures for Best Results?
To keep the results of your liquid facelift procedure, we recommend that patients return to repeat their treatment every eight to twelve months, as this is how long results tend to last. However, the longevity of a patient’s result will vary depending on the extent of their treatment, how fast their body metabolizes the products, and how well they take care of their skin between treatments.
Ready To Schedule Your Non-Surgical or Liquid Facelift in North Vancouver, BC?
With her extensive medical experience and artistic capabilities, Dr. Naz curates each liquid facelift according to her patients’ aesthetic desires. To learn more about a liquid facelift and how it can transform your appearance, schedule a consultation at Art of Lines MD by calling (604) 973-1939 or completing our online consultation form.
