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Non-Surgical vs Surgical Facelift

Sep 22, 2015 | Facelift & Neck Lift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)

Non Surgical vs Surgical Facelift

As one of the best plastic surgeons practicing in London, UK, Dr De Silva we consult with patients throughout London who are concerned about the signs of ageing and wish to reverse this with a facelift. He understands that having work done is a big decision, and is proud to offer his patients an extensive range of facial rejuvenation procedures, including facelifts, also known as rhytidectomy.

The Gold Standard For Facial Rejuvenation

Plastic surgeons who offer cosmetic treatment believe the facelift to be the golden standard when it comes to achieving ideal facial rejuvenation for their patients. In the hands of Dr De Silva, a facelift can make you look and feel much younger, reversing the visible signs of ageing and restoring youthful radiance.

It is, however, an invasive surgical procedure that is costly, requires a somewhat lengthy recovery period, and carries with them a certain amount of risk. For these reasons, many people are unwilling to undergo a facelift. For those wishing to correct signs of ageing on the face without surgery, a non-surgical procedure may be a good alternative.

Dr De Silva makes sure that his London patients have a clear understanding as to exactly what each treatment entails, so as to make a more informed decision when choosing which route to take. Both treatments are designed to target facial wrinkling and are directed at tightening the overall look of the face to achieve a younger, rejuvenated look, but each takes a different approach to achieve that goal.

The Best London Facelift Diminishes Signs Of Aging

There are various reasons why some people are wary of undergoing a facelift procedure. Some reasons include the increased risk, costs and the extended recovery period. Thus, the non-surgical facelift may be a more ideal alternative. The rhytidectomy can address a number of age-related concerns, including the loss of volume and muscle tone around the eyes and cheeks.

The Difference Between A Surgical vs Non-Surgical Procedure

Surgical Requires Surgery

The traditional surgical facelift is a type of plastic surgery that involves the tightening and/or removal of facial skin to correct signs of ageing on the face. Skilled plastic surgeons like Dr De Silva are able to create a very natural look that corrects the obvious signs of facial ageing.

To perform the surgery, small incisions are first made near the ears. Then the surgeon lifts the skin and fatty tissues off of the underlying musculature and connective tissues and tightens it until the desired effect is achieved. Next, the skin is sutured to its new location and any excess skin is trimmed away. The incisions are then sutured closed and the surgery is considered complete. The recovery period following a facelift lasts about two weeks, during which time the patient must primarily remain at home and rest.

Non-Surgical Requires No Incisions

This cosmetic procedure treats signs of facial ageing through methods other than surgery. Dr De Silva frequently performs non-surgical facelifts on patients who do not want to undergo a traditional rhytidectomy.

He utilises a number of non-invasive treatments to create the desired effect. Depending on the patient’s unique needs, he may use one or more of the following cosmetic treatments to perform a non-surgical lift:

  • Injectable fillers such as Restylane or Radiesse to add volume, treat wrinkles and augment the lips and/or cheeks
  • Botox to eliminate lines and wrinkles
  • Ultrasound technology or radiofrequency energy to tighten and tone the skin
  • Laser skin resurfacing to improve tone and texture while minimizing fine lines and wrinkles
  • Other therapies as needed to achieve the desired result

A non-invasive lift can rejuvenate the face and provide results that last between 6 and 18 months, depending on the treatments utilised. Dr De Silva can also perform touchups to maintain the effects of the non-surgical facelift.

How Is Recovery From a Non-Surgical Facelift Different From A Traditional Facelift?

While it takes most people a minimum of 2 weeks to recover from a surgical lift, individuals who undergo a non-surgical lift can typically resume normal activities within the hour! There is also a significant cost difference between the two surgeries, with a traditional facelift typically costing quite a bit more than a non-surgical alternative.

How Does The Non-Invasive Stack Up Against The Traditional?

Both approaches have their pros and cons. Traditional facelift treatments can be highly effective on skin that shows early signs of ageing. Therefore, the best candidate is generally younger and has skin that still has some elasticity. A non-invasive facelift cannot counteract notable skin laxity and more advanced signs of ageing.

While the results of a non-invasive facelift can be long-lasting, they will not be as enduring as a traditional surgical facelift. Typically non-surgical techniques can last from 6 months to over a year, depending on the type of treatment.

Though a surgical procedure involves more time and carries some risks, the positive outcome of a facelift can last for up to 15 years.

While a non-surgical rhytidectomy will not address severe sagging in the face and neck and jowls, the techniques can be transformative on patients who are younger, particularly those in their 30s and 40s. For those who would like to avoid surgery and downtime, a non-surgical lift is an excellent option.

Not all the treatments used in non-surgical rhytidectomy are appropriate for every individual, so it is essential to have a comprehensive consultation so that the results can be optimized.

Which One Is Better?

It is not possible to state that either procedure is better than the other. The question to ask is, “which type of facelift is a better option for me?”. If you would like to rejuvenate your appearance without undergoing surgery, then a non-invasive procedure may be a more appropriate choice. If you desire a more dramatic effect with results that will last for quite a while, then a traditional procedure will be a better solution.

Consult With Dr De Silva For The Best Facelift In London

If you would like to improve your appearance by treating signs of ageing on your face, we encourage you to set up an initial consultation with Dr De Silva. After taking your goals into consideration, he will be able to advise whether a non-surgical or traditional facelift will be more appropriate for you.

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Dr. Julian De Silva is a renowned and highly skilled facial plastic surgeon based in Harley Street, London. With a reputation for excellence in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. De Silva is the founder of the Centre for Advanced Facial Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery. Specialising in procedures such as facelifts, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery, he is known for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to achieving natural-looking results. 

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