What is a non-surgical facelift?
A non-surgical facelift is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face, creating a younger look. These procedures do not require surgery or anaesthesia.
Why would you have a non-surgical facelift?
Most procedures take a matter of minutes, and have little to no recovery. Aftercare is also very minimal, compared to the recovery period of a surgical facelift which can take months.
In addition, a big advantage of choosing to have a non-surgical facelift is the reduced cost.
Non-surgical facelifts are also often recommended as an appropriate treatment for younger patients aged between 40-60 years of age.
Types of non-surgical facelifts and what they involve
Thermage Facelift:
- Collagen in the lower layers of your skin are heated, stimulating the production of new skin cells and underlying tissue, making the appearance of skin smoother, with fewer fine lines and wrinkles.
- The procedure only lasts about 15 minutes, and results are meant to last for 1-2 years.
- After the procedure, it is normal for some redness and swelling, which subsides within a few days.
- Appearance improves over time as new collagen forms.
- Depending on the patient, between just one to three sessions are recommended initially, with one additional treatment per year thereafter to maintain results.
Vampire Facelift:
- Also known as the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) facelift.
- Platelets are harvested from the patient’s blood, which are then injected into problem skin areas.
- Platelets are the part of the blood that are used for treating burns and skin injuries, as they release growth factors that promote the production of collagen, and thus giving skin a more youthful appearance.
- By injecting the PRP into lines and wrinkles, the face is contoured and has an overall smoother appearance.
- Some bruising, swelling and redness after the treatment is to be expected, but these subside in a matter of days.
- The procedure takes around an hour and results can be seen in the following few weeks.
- Individuals suffering from a number of blood disorders such as hypofibrinogenaemia and sepsis or those suffering from liver disease are not suitable candidates.
Laser Facelift:
- A laser is used to remove parts of skin, layer by layer.
- Although not lifting the face, the procedure aims to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Serum Facelift:
- Serum is a cream solution that is applied to the face to smooth out lines and wrinkles.
- Fast-working serums tone and tighten the skin, thus reducing the number of wrinkles.
- Effects of these serums can last up to eight hours, however, some products aim to have longer-lasting results, after the skin is nourished by the serum over time.