Transitioning from Fillers to a Facelift

When it comes to appearing youthful and rejuvenated, modern plastic surgeons have a variety of options to give you the results you’re looking for. Cosmetic procedures are becoming more and more mainstream in America, offering numerous anti-aging solutions to millions of people every year.

From dermal fillers and Botox to surgical facelifts, you have more options than ever to achieve a younger, natural-looking appearance. Many patients start with fillers, as they’re cost-effective and non-invasive. But how sustainable are fillers in the long term, and at what point should you consider transitioning to a facelift?

The Limitations of Dermal Fillers

For many patients, fillers are perfect for what they’re looking for. Botox can smooth out forehead furrows, and fillers like Juvéderm and Restylane can give your cheeks and lips a little more volume. For sagging jowls and excess loose skin, though, these treatments can’t do the trick.

A facelift can help you achieve a younger look without the need for touch-up appointments, as dermal fillers and cosmetic injectables require. Furthermore, a facelift can provide dramatic results with just one procedure, while the results obtained with fillers and injectables must be maintained with additional injections.

Long-Term Costs

Fillers can quickly and easily enhance appearance, but the effects aren’t permanent. While the timeline varies between brands and is affected by the patient’s facial anatomy, most treatments can be expected to last anywhere from nine to eighteen months.

It can be intimidating to consider a permanent surgical option, and fillers are more affordable and much less invasive. But over time, the cost of maintaining them adds up. At a certain point, it’s worth asking if it’s more financially viable to opt for a one-time surgery rather than to continuously pay for touch-up injections with cosmetic injectables.

A More Permanent Solution

The goal of a facelift is to tighten excess skin, smooth out sagging, and eliminate jowls to give you a more naturally youthful appearance. The procedure can also help address losses in facial volume, though it’s not uncommon to use fillers in conjunction with surgery to enhance the results.

The most attractive aspect of facelifts is its longevity. While the lifespan of fillers can be counted in months, the results of surgery can last up to 15 years.

When is the Right Time to Transition?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The solution depends on several variables, including your unique aging characteristics and personal aesthetic goals. Technically, the only requirement for a facelift is that you are in good health, but it is ultimately a decision you should make with the guidance of a qualified plastic surgeon.

While fillers are popular with younger patients and are appropriate for all ages, the effects of aging become more difficult to treat as time goes on. This is especially true of the lower third of the face as time and gravity take their toll.

Is it time to consider surgical options to enhance your appearance? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our surgeon and find out what’s best for you.