Reversing an Aging Face–Should you Opt for Injectables or a Facelift?

Time is one thing that none of us can control. And unfortunately, time reveals its true self as we age, leaving permanent evidence on the face. Facial wrinkles, and loose, sagging skin are often complaints of men and women as they age. But turning back the hands of time in terms of restoring youthful beauty are possible with cosmetic treatments and plastic surgery. So today on the blog, New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Preminger of Preminger Plastic Surgery discussing reversing an aging face and the differences between injectables and a facelift.

What are injectables?

Popular injectables or dermal fillers include Juvederm, Voluma, Radiesse, Belotero, which are FDA-approved and safe, and effective in reducing wrinkles and restoring fullness in facial tissue like around the eyes, lips, marionette lines, chin, and more. These dermal fillers are much less costly compared to a surgical facelift. Additionally, many people of various ages are generally candidates for dermal fillers. However, while there is little to no downtime associated with receiving dermal fillers, the results do not last as long as surgical outcomes, and not everyone is willing or able to undergo surgery and the recovery that goes along with it. Dermal filler results may last from six to 12 months, but subsequent injections are needed to maintain a lasting youthful appearance.

What about Botox?

Botox is another popular injectable, although it contains a specific FDA-approved ingredient that invokes a slight yet temporary paralysis at the injection site. Patients find Botox effective at reducing wrinkles because it prevents deep and excessive facial movements that exacerbate wrinkles in the first place.

What to know about a surgical facelift

A surgical facelift goes beyond the results of dermal fillers or Botox. While injectables are ideal for softening minor wrinkles, they do not reduce fat deposits, tighten loose skin, or provide long-lasting results without retreatment. While getting a facelift doesn’t have a specific age requirement, the best results are achieved when the procedure is done before too many visible signs of aging develop. However, a full facelift is an extensive surgical procedure that takes several hours or more to complete and may involve a two to three-week recovery. For some patients, a mini facelift may provide the results they are looking for with a shorter recovery of only a few days. Full facelift results can be evident for about a decade or longer, although eventually, signs of aging will develop again, and you may desire to have another facelift at that time.

Which procedure is right for me?

If you are interested in reversing the signs of aging, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon in Manhattan like Dr. Preminger. She will discuss your beauty goals, ability to undergo each procedure, and commitment to recovery to help you decide which procedure is right for you. Perhaps you begin with injectables and see how you like those results. Then, if you elect to have a full or mini facelift, you can schedule that surgery at a later time.

Plastic Surgeon in New York City and Manhattan

To learn more about facial rejuvenation or find out if you’re a candidate for a facelift, contact Preminger Plastic Surgery by calling (212) 706-1900.