What To Look For
A non-surgical face-lift is an alternative to plastic surgery and can include injections, light therapy, electronic stimulation techniques, laser treatments, dermal fillers, chemical skin peels, mesotherapy, threadlift face-lifts and even acupuncture. The goal is to look younger, without the risks or down-time, associated with the more traditional invasive surgery techniques.
Common Pitfalls
Chemical skin peeling, if done incorrectly, can leave permanent scars. Botox and restylane fillers can also cause discomfort, and bruising if the wrong dose is applied. The main risk with a threadlift is that you may not notice any visible improvement in your skin. In a few isolated cases, patients found the "thread" became visible under the skin soon after their procedure.
Where To Buy
Although non-surgical face-lifts are normally cheaper and generally risk-free, it is always advisable to find a qualified professional, such as a plastic surgeon, reputable salon or spa, or a dermatologist, before undergoing any treatment. If you are in any doubt, contact The American Board of Plastic Surgery, to find a suitably qualified practitioner.
Cost
Non-surgical face-lifts are much cheaper than having full invasive surgery. Dermal fillers and Botox prices range from $350 to $500 for each injected area. Chemical peels are between $150 and $6,000 per treatment, for full face. The price varies, depending on whether it is a light peel, or a deeper phenol-type, where only one treatment is necessary. Light therapy prices vary from $300 to $600 per session, and threadlift from $1,500 to $4,500, depending on the area covered. Most health insurance policies do not cover the cost of non-surgical face-lifts.
Comparison Shopping
Mesotherapy, Botox and restylene are all injected into the skin. However, they work in rather different ways and have different effects. Mesotherapy is a micro injection of amino acids and vitamins, that penetrate the mesoderm layer of the skin, leaving a softer and more wrinkle-free appearance. Mesotherapy can help eliminate sagging skin on the face and neck. Botox is derived from Botulinum Toxin Type A, and when it is injected, disrupts the release of a chemical called acetycholine. Acetycholine triggers the muscle contraction that creates wrinkles. Botox paralyses the muscle, so it cannot contract. This often leaves a "mask-like" expression, but does smooth out the wrinkles. Both these procedures are generally pain-free. Restylane requires a local anesthetic, and injections are often uncomfortable. A "filler" is injected beneath the skin, where hyaluronic acid reacts with water and creates "volume" in the skin. Results are generally seen within one week.
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