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What Are The Different Types Of Facelifts?
As we age, it’s not just our skin that starts sagging – the underlying structures of the face begin to droop. This can lead to a loss of fullness in the cheeks and under the eyes, as well as the appearance of deepening wrinkles and creases around the mouth. And while we can’t prevent these effects of aging, we can reverse them with a facelift.
Thanks to medical advancements, different facelift types are available today to address specific facial areas and achieve the desired results. Before we delve into the different types of facelifts, let’s first look at what a facelift is.
WHAT IS A FACE LIFT?
SURGICAL VS. NON-SURGICAL FACE LIFT
When considering a facelift, patients have the option of choosing between a surgical or non-surgical facelift. While both procedures can provide excellent results, there are some key differences to consider before making a decision.
Surgical facelifts require an incision to access the underlying layers of tissue. This type of facelift is typically more invasive and has a longer recovery time. Non-surgical facelifts, on the other hand, do not require any incisions. Instead, they use advanced technologies, such as radiofrequency or ultrasound, to heat the deeper layers of skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin.
A non-surgical facelift is a good option for patients who are not ready for a traditional facelift. Recovery from a non-surgical facelift is typically shorter than healing from a traditional facelift, but the results are not as dramatic nor permanent.
Let’s discuss the different types of facelifts available today.
MINI FACELIFT
Also known as a “weekend facelift” or a “lunchtime facelift”, this minimally invasive procedure can be performed in about an hour. Patients who can benefit from a mini facelift are those experiencing early signs of aging, such as saggy skin in the cheeks and jawline.
A mini facelift tightens deep facial tissues through shorter incisions. These incisions are typically placed along the hairline above each ear and/or in the ear’s natural creases. The surgeon can lift and tighten structural tissues around the cheeks through the incisions. The mini facelift is less invasive than a traditional facelift, and it has a shorter recovery time.
TRADITIONAL FACELIFT
A traditional facelift is more invasive than a mini facelift, but the results are more dramatic and permanent. It’s typically suitable for patients with apparent signs of aging, such as significant skin laxity in the cheeks and jowls.
Incisions during a traditional facelift are hidden along the hairline and extend around the ear. Another small incision is also performed under the chin. The surgeon can access deep facial tissues and muscles through these incisions to make corrections. A more lifted and youthful appearance is successfully achieved by tightening the tissues in these areas.
Excess fat can also be removed from the neck and jowls during a traditional facelift. Recovery from a traditional facelift is typically longer than recovery from a mini facelift, but the results are more impressive and last for much more years.
MID FACE LIFT
BROW LIFT
As we age, the skin on our forehead starts sagging, leading to wrinkles and creases. A brow lift elevates the skin in this area, providing a more youthful appearance. A brow lift is specifically designed to address aging signs in the temple region. It corrects saggy skin, wrinkles, and drooping eyelids. The incisions are usually made along the hairline above each ear. Through these incisions, the surgeon can access deep structures and make corrections.
THREAD LIFT
The threads used in a thread lift are made of materials that dissolve over time, so they do not need to be removed. The results might last for about a year, after which the threads will have dissolved and the effects will have worn off.
Thread lifts are a good option for patients who want to avoid surgery and those who want to see what results they can expect from a traditional facelift before committing to the procedure.
INJECTABLES
Injectables like dermal fillers are non-surgical alternatives to a facelift. These procedures can be used to address wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss.
Dermal fillers address wrinkles and fine lines. They are made of materials that add volume to the skin, helping fill in wrinkles and creases. Dermal fillers can also be used to add volume to the lips. The results from dermal fillers typically last for six to 12 months.
Recovery from injectables is typically shorter than recovery from a traditional facelift, but the results are not that dramatic.
PLANNING YOUR FACELIFT WITH THE ACCREDITED PLASTIC SURGEON DR. STAVROU
Learn more about facelift by scheduling a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Demetris Stavrou in Nicosia, Limassol, Athens, and Sliema (MD, MSc, EBOPRAS, ASPS).
Dr. Stavrou has extensive experience in facial surgery and an artistic eye. He uses cutting-edge surgical technology and advanced facelift techniques to rejuvenate your face and make you look at least 10 years younger. He will advise you on when it is best to undergo a facelift and ensure that you feel comfortable, confident and secure before and after the procedure.
Do you want to learn more about facelifts? Read now all the different types of facelift incisions and which option is better for you.
Dr. Demetris Stavrou
Dr Stavrou is a board-certified and highly experienced plastic surgeon in Cyprus, Greece and Malta, with a keen interest in informing patients about the latest updates on reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery.
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