I’m debating between a full facelift and some of the non-surgical alternatives out there? Are any of the non-surgical options able to provide results that are as long lasting as a traditional facelift?

The term ‘facelift’ is often used to describe a multitude of procedures. A ‘traditional’ facelift usually refers to a procedure that lifts the eyebrows/forehead, address the jowls, and refines the neckline. I perform an endoscopic brow lift to address the eyebrows/forehead. I perform a facelift to achieve jawline definition, re-position the jowl, and achieve a more youthful neck contour. This procedure is performed through a well designed and concealed incision that follows the natural contours of the ear. Through this incision, I lift the SMAS layer (a tough fibrous layer beneath the skin) to achieve a longer lasting result. In addition to lifting tissues, I may consider the addition of volume at the same time as the facelift. We know that the aging process involves not only descent of tissues but also loss of volume. Therefore, fat grafting (taking fat from one part of the body and placing it in areas of deficient volume in the face) can be performed at the same time as a facelift to further enhance your results. One can achieve volume in a non-surgical setting with the use of injectable fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Radiesse. Another injectable filler that may prove to be interesting is Selphyl. This product uses your own blood to achieve not only volume but also collagen reformation. Further studies are needed to establish the duration of action for Selphyl. Finally, fractionated skin resurfacing procedures, such as the Sciton laser, is a non-surgical option that will address fine lines, wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin to provide a more youthful appearance. Often, our patients choose to combine both fractionated laser treatments and fillers at the same time to achieve an even more impressive, natural, youthful result.