Top 5 Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation Techniques
If you are looking for ideas for facial rejuvenation but are not ready for surgery, there are several treatments available that can help you achieve a more youthful, rested appearance. Cosmetic injections, laser treatments, and peels are often some of the first treatments chosen by patients, and both men and women seem to be starting with these treatments at younger ages. It’s becoming more common for women in their 20s and 30s to have injectable treatments, laser skin resurfacing, and peels to keep their youthful appearance longer, delaying the need for surgical intervention. Unlike the past, it is now rare that a patient’s first aesthetic procedure is a face lift. You may have heard from friends, family, or advertisements about different non-surgical options. In just a few minutes, the information below will give you the basics on how each non-surgical option available here at Pinsky Plastic Surgery might fit into your treatment plan.
Injectable Relaxers
BOTOX® Cosmetic and Dysport® are injectable solutions designed to temporarily relax targeted facial muscles and smooth out signs of age such as lines and wrinkles. Once injected, it may take up to a week for full results to be noticeable. The results typically last about three months. With occasional follow-up injections, the effects can be maintained for even longer periods. The base ingredient in each of these types of cosmetic injectables is diluted with a sterile solution just prior to injection. Dr. Pinsky determines the dilution strength based on an examination of your facial muscle strength in addition to your goals and treatment history. The determination is only one of the reasons we say “location, location, location – it matters!” when making a decision about where to obtain injectable treatment.
Injectable Fillers
Special dermal fillers may be injected under areas of the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scar tissue. Such fillers can make lips appear fuller and even fill in hollow contours in the face. Noticeable results may not be visible for up to a week. Results may last from four months to a year or longer, depending on the specific filler used. Here again, the skill and artistry of the doctor is critical. Different fillers are designed for injection at different layers or depths. The knowledge to gauge and inject the appropriate place, depth, and amount is critical to a natural appearance. Poorly skilled clinicians can sometimes create visible lumps, bumps or “tracks” just under the skin’s surface.
Laser Skin Tightening
Using laser energy, infrared light can penetrate the skin to cause tightening in collagen layers in certain areas of the face. This can reduce fine lines and wrinkles while firming up sagging skin, creating a more youthful appearance. Needless to say, skill and experience can make a big difference in outcomes when using an advanced laser technology to affect change in the tissues of the face.
Fractional Skin Resurfacing
A laser is used to target certain areas of the face deep under the skin to stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen. The laser is also used to remove layers of damaged skin to give you a firmer, more evenly toned, and youthful appearance. While this may sound very much like laser skin tightening, the best lasers have a variety of settings that are customized for your skin type, skin condition and aesthetic goals – not all lasers (and not all laser technicians) are created equal. Dr. Pinsky researched the science behind, and results of, the Sciton® laser before purchasing a laser skin rejuvenation system for our practice. His confidence in our staff and our equipment means you can have confidence that we aim to deliver the best results possible.
Facial Peels
Facial peels can be performed by the use of special chemicals, lasers, or by dermabrasion. Any of these methods can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, scarring, and discoloration. The top, damaged layers of the skin are removed, revealing smoother, fresher skin. These procedures may cause some temporary discomfort, somewhat like a sunburn. Healing usually is complete in five to seven days. Our clinical and aesthetic staff will thoroughly evaluate your skin type, resiliency, and healing history prior to recommending the best method of rejuvenating your appearance.
If you have fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, or sagging areas of skin, talk to us about one of these non-surgical treatment options to see which procedures can help you attain the softest, loveliest, most luminous results possible. And don’t forget your hands and décolleté! Contact us today for more information, or to schedule a consultation.