Facelift Without Surgery – An Alternative to Plastic Surgery

It's no secret that the development of plastic surgery has reached unprecedented heights over the past few years. The number and variety of operations that plastic surgeons offer is truly impressive. And if earlier the very possibility of changing one’s appearance, getting rid of one or another aesthetic defect, seemed almost fantastic, now, when technologies and techniques have stepped far forward, this is no longer enough.

The principle of “result at any cost” is becoming irrelevant due to the advent of new, minimally invasive methods of surgical intervention, which make it possible to effectively solve the same problems, but at the cost of much smaller “sacrifices”. And this is true, first of all, when it comes to rejuvenation operations. If just a few years ago, a circular facelift, labor-intensive for the surgeon and difficult for the patient, was considered classic here, now an increasing number of people prefer less invasive operations that allow them to achieve excellent results, while reducing the rehabilitation period and minimizing traces of surgical intervention.

Non-surgical methods for lifting facial muscles

Any operation is a risk and serious stress for the body. Every woman can resort to surgery. However, surgery is not always required to achieve the desired result in muscle tightening.

Women can fight time in more harmless and gentle ways. It is worth noting that surgery in some cases may even be contraindicated.

You can create an oval shape with the help of cosmetologists, which will significantly save money compared to surgery. Hardware facial muscle lift is a fairly common procedure.

Lifting is one of the most popular hardware methods in cosmetology. At the moment, there are a large number of directions that help tighten the face (correct oval shape, get rid of excess skin). Let's talk about the most famous ones.

Cryolifting is a muscle tightening method that is based on the effect of temperature shock. The procedure is carried out using special equipment, the hardware nozzle of which has a temperature of up to -20 ° C. Due to the fact that the skin is exposed to low temperature, facial swelling subsides, collagen is produced faster, and capillary activity is stimulated. The maximum effect is achieved during the course (from six to ten procedures).

Ultrasonic SMAS lifting is a muscle tightening method that has an obvious effect immediately after the first session, is consolidated over the next three months, and the result lasts up to five years. Using the influence of ultrasonic waves on muscles and ligaments (deep layers of the skin of the face and neck), the cosmetologist achieves the desired changes. The tightening mechanism works on the principle of an ultrasound machine. In real time, a specialist watches on a monitor how soft tissues change and which layer is affected by the device.

RF lifting . The essence of this method of muscle tightening is the effect of radiofrequency pulses on the skin of the face. During the procedure, the epidermis warms up, thereby contracting collagen fibers and muscles. After the fourth session, the changes are obvious: the skin on the face becomes denser and tighter. Thanks to the cumulative effect, after a couple of months the result will be even better.

Fractional photothermolysis is a technology for tightening facial muscles using laser correction. Existing collagen is eliminated under the influence of radiation, awakening epidermal cells, facial muscles and promoting the production of new collagen in the shortest possible time. Due to this cell activity, the skin acquires a pleasant color, glows and smoothes. To achieve the effect, at least three procedures are required.

Acupuncture lifting – acupuncture. For this procedure, special needles are used, which are applied to biologically active points located on a person’s face. Using this technique requires certain skills. You need to know the location of the required points. As a result of this muscle tightening, the facial contour becomes clearer as a result of the activation of muscle fibers.

This method has obvious advantages:

• Safety. There are virtually no side effects or complications, unlike other methods of muscle tightening.
• The fastest visible results.
• Acupuncture has a positive effect on the body (internal organs, muscles) due to its effect on nerve endings (biologically active points) on the face.
• The method promotes relaxation and has an anti-stress effect.
• You can combine acupuncture lifting with other cosmetic procedures. With an integrated approach, longer lasting results are achieved.

Read material on the topic: Modeling the oval of the face: methods, possible effects, advantages of the procedure

The result of laser tightening

After treatment with a laser beam, the skin will hurt and peel for several days. Full recovery occurs within two to three weeks. During this time, the crusts heal completely and the redness disappears. To achieve the best results, it is recommended to conduct at least two sessions at an interval of two months. Laser thermolifting gives excellent results. Deep wrinkles disappear, scars and scars are smoothed out.

Those who prefer innovative technologies should try a three-dimensional lifting session, which is becoming increasingly popular. 3D rejuvenation technology allows you to get impressive results.

Laser 3D lifting is an innovative technology in a new way, during which a complete reconstruction of the skin takes place. The heat ray affects all its layers, resulting in complete renewal.

Possible side effects

After laser lifting, as after any other cosmetic procedure, side effects are possible. Usually, if you follow the doctor’s recommendations, there are no negative reactions from the body. In some cases, the following side effects are possible:

• peeling of the skin;
• the appearance of red spots;
• burns;
• skin itching.

All these negative signs are normal and should be taken calmly. With an individual predisposition, some patients develop keloid scars and increased pigmentation. To avoid this, before prescribing the procedure, the cosmetologist calculates the possible risks and warns the patient about the possible consequences.

After the correction session, swelling occurs and skin redness is observed. Don't try to eliminate them. These unpleasant symptoms disappear on their own after a few hours.

Advantages and disadvantages of non-surgical facial muscle lift

Based on numerous customer reviews, a list of advantages has been formed:

1. The above methods of facial muscle tightening are comfortable and painless. No anesthesia required.
2. Reducing the risk of complications. No surgical intervention. There are no scars left and infection is excluded.
3. This method does not require recovery time (rehabilitation) compared to surgery, and does not interfere with the normal rhythm of life.
4. The ability to perform procedures all year round, since the top layer of skin is not damaged.
5. High results are achieved. The facial skin becomes elastic and smooth and retains the effect for 1–1.5 years.

Any method, along with its advantages, also has disadvantages that you need to know about in order to take them into account when non-surgically lifting the facial muscles.

Procedures are prohibited in the following cases:

• during the period of activation of infectious skin lesions (acne, etc.);
• in the presence of chronic diseases, as well as general ones in the acute stage;
• in the presence of pacemakers and metal implants;
• in the presence of formations (tumors) at the sites of the procedure;
• during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Read material on the topic: How to shape the contour of the face: all possible ways

Advantages

The procedure has a number of undoubted advantages:

• complete absence of pain ;
• due to the fact that laser beams act immediately on the deep layers of the skin, damage to the skin occurs;
• safety of the procedure
• no scars;
• precise impact;
• no side effects;
• lack of a rehabilitation period and special conditions for recovery;
• low cost compared to surgical methods .

Laser rejuvenation is compatible with a number of other rejuvenation methods - contouring, Botox injections, biorevitalization and mesotherapy.

Surgical methods for lifting facial muscles

Rhytidectomy (circular lift) is an operation to tighten the facial muscles, the task of which is to eliminate fat, deposits, excess tissue, as well as remove deep wrinkles (from the face and neck), double chin and nasolabial folds. The result is noticeable rejuvenation.

It can be deep, superficial and mixed.

Superficial rhytidectomy consists of three stages:

1. An incision is made from the hairline in the temple area, following down the visible border of the auricle, then under the lobe, returning to the border of the hair behind the ear. If it is necessary to remove the double chin, another incision is made: on the lower jaw on the inside near the chin.
2. Next, the skin is separated from the underlying tissues. Excess muscle tissue and, if required, fat cells are removed.
3. The final stage is skin tightening. The edges are aligned and sutures are applied.

Deep circular lift (SMAS-lifting) is a method of eliminating wrinkles with correction of the oval of the face. During the procedure, simultaneously with superficial rhytidectomy, the tendon and muscle-fascial complexes are displaced. The result has a long-term effect, but the recovery period increases.

Combined rhytidectomy . With this method, correction occurs due to tissue tension in different directions. Superficial and deep circular lifts are complemented by removal of excess tissue near the outer border of the masseter muscle.

The operation can last from two to six hours. It all depends on the type of procedure, complexity and desired result. The recovery period usually takes about three weeks and consists of avoiding physical activity. It is prohibited to lift heavy objects or bend over. You need to sleep on your back. It is necessary to limit exposure to the sun and heat exposure (do not take baths, do not visit saunas and steam baths for about three months).

The result will be achieved after 3 months and will last for 5–10 years.

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SMAS-plasty (space lifting) is a current technique for correcting the oval shape and contour of the face while simultaneously eliminating wrinkles. With this tightening, the muscle tissue shifts. Unlike the circular one, which affects only the upper layers of the skin, here the deeper layers and structures (muscles) are affected. After SMAS plastic surgery and the recovery period, the face takes on a natural appearance, the dermis is not stretched, the shape of the eyes and the line of the mouth do not change.

The surgical technique is similar to a circular lift. The only difference is that the doctor, after making the incision, moves the subcutaneous fibromuscular layer, removes excess fatty tissue, and then forms the oval of the face and applies sutures. The skin does not stretch.

After 10–12 days, the stitches can be removed. The final result will be visible after two months, and the effect will last at least 12, or even 15 years.

S-lifting. This procedure is suitable for those people who have not yet experienced serious age-related changes (muscle deformation), or for a repeat procedure. It is called a short-scar or short-flap lift.

It contains SMAS lifting techniques. The effect is on both the upper layer of the skin and the deep tissue structures. The face is tightened, rejuvenated, looks natural, and not tense like a mask.

This method is the least traumatic. Small seams remain. They are located behind the ear and are not visible to strangers. The procedure is aimed at achieving an even contour of the lower jaw and correcting this part of the face.

Operation stages:

1. For women, an incision is made behind the tragus of the ear, for men in front.
2. In the required position, the surgeon fixes the soft tissues, then places sutures in the cheekbone area on the periosteal tissue.
3. Skin flaps are excised, SMAS lifting is performed, and internal sutures are applied.

Advantages of S-lifting:

• A neat small incision that is almost invisible after the stitches are removed.
• Due to the chosen method of excision of excess tissue, the risk of damage to the facial nerve is minimized.
• Short duration of the operation, use of gentle anesthesia.
• Minimal risks of complications.
• Low cost.
• Fast recovery period.

Disadvantages of S-lifting:

• In the presence of deep superficial wrinkles, it may be ineffective.
• There may be pain when chewing due to the internal seams located on the cheekbones.

Check-lifting is a type of operation that allows you to get rid of age-related changes in the middle third of the face (bags under the eyes, deep nasolabial folds, sagging cheeks, etc.). Cosmetologists recommend performing this manipulation in conjunction with blepharoplasty.

With this procedure you can eliminate wrinkles and sagging skin. Swelling disappears from the face.

With this method, incisions are made on the skin of the eyelids. It is often chosen as an option to replace rhytidectomy. The recovery period lasts two weeks. The effect will last for 5–7 years.

Advantages: surgery lasts 40–90 minutes, facial expressions and features are preserved, minimal pain during the recovery period.

Cons: Rare, but complications can still occur.

MAX-lifting is a type of S-lifting. The main difference is that during the operation shortened incisions are made. Like the S-lift, the method is based on excision of excess skin and tightening of the deep structural layers of the face.

Advantages of the method:

• Minimal risk factor with high results.
• Effective removal of sagging skin on the middle and lower parts of the face, straightening of nasolabial folds, correction of the oval (angle) between the neck and chin.
• Short rehabilitation period.
• The suturing method helps raise the eyes to the cheekbones, which visually opens the eyes.
• Facial expressions are not disturbed, and the person looks natural.

The disadvantages include possible complications due to surgery: bruising, inflammation, hematomas, swelling.

Read material on the topic: Plasmolifting of the face - a breakthrough in domestic cosmetology

Choice of correction depending on age

According to experts, none of the minimally invasive techniques can compete in effectiveness with surgical intervention. But if a specific situation or health condition does not allow you to take such a step, then you can use a non-surgical correction method. A cosmetologist or plastic surgeon will help you choose the best option.

It is important to know! Cosmetic procedures work well up to 40 years of age. After forty, their effect becomes less pronounced, and by the age of 50, such options are more suitable for care. In this case, only a plastic surgeon will help eliminate the existing changes.

Age from 40 years

In women of this age group, changes on the face are already becoming noticeable, so the following procedures are indicated:

• RF lifting;
• laser correction;
• bioreinforcement;
• plasmolifting
• electrotherapy;
• photorejuvenation.

Age from 45 years

During this period, salon cosmetology procedures should become regular. They prolong the lifting effect, which gradually weakens. Experts recommend using the following methods:

• subcutaneous injections with anti-aging compounds;
• chemical peeling;
• photorejuvenation;
• radio frequency and RF lifting;
• thread reinforcement.

Age 50 years

The aging process proceeds rapidly, deep wrinkles and folds appear, and tissue ptosis is noted. Here it’s worth thinking about choosing more effective methods, which include:

• fractional thermolysis;
• biorevitalization;
• mesotherapy;
• thread lifting;
• Thermage is an analogy to RF lifting.

Taking into account the fact that the tissue regeneration process is slowing down, you should not resort to techniques such as dermabrasion, laser photothermolysis, or chemical peeling.

Age from 55 years

Due to the fact that the level of hormones noticeably decreases and the skin loses its ability to recover, it becomes increasingly difficult to achieve a lasting effect even for a short period of time. For this purpose, the most aggressive methods of influence are selected, and at the same time the number of sessions is increased:

• mesotherapy based on hyaluronic acid with the introduction of the composition to a depth of 6 mm;
• Botox injections;
• contour plastic surgery using fillers;
• thermage;
• ELOS therapy, which involves the combined effects of light rays and current.

In addition to the above, it is recommended to regularly perform massage, acupuncture and masks. All available procedures should be combined with each other to achieve a lasting effect.

Injection techniques for lifting facial muscles

An excellent option that can replace surgery. As a result of this procedure, the effect is achieved as quickly as possible without compromising durability. There is no recovery period, there are no strict restrictions. The price is comparable to the cost of the hardware course.

3D threads - the method is based on creating a subcutaneous frame from very thin threads. The material from which the latter are made dissolves over time. Using this method, deep wrinkles are eliminated, the skin is smoothed, and the oval of the face is tightened. The entire procedure takes half an hour or an hour and is performed under local anesthesia. The results will last up to two years.

Contour plastic surgery involves injecting a special material – hyaluronic acid – under the skin. It does not cause rejection or allergic reactions. The substance fills the places where deep wrinkles have formed and helps shape the desired facial contour.

To administer injections, it is enough to use local anesthesia (spray or gel). The method causes virtually no pain. The effect lasts from 12 to 20 months.

Volumetric modeling (soft-lift) is a method similar to contour plastic surgery using Swedish technology. The difference is that the injections of the drug are made deeper. In the process, the voids of wrinkles are filled, you can restore the relief and even edit the shape of the chin, cheekbones, and correct asymmetry. The result is often compared to plastic surgery. The effect lasts for a year.

Biorevitalization is the same injection of hyaluronic acid, but low molecular weight. Gives the skin a moisturizing and rejuvenating effect, giving it a healthy appearance. It is widely used at the age of 25–35 years, when there are no serious age-related changes yet, but the first signs of aging are already noticeable. The effect of the acid lasts about 12 months.

Bioreinforcement . This method uses a gel-like consistency of hyaluronic acid. When injected under the skin, the substance is distributed and creates an additional frame that forms the necessary oval of the face. It is recommended to use this method for people aged 40–45 years. The result lasts for a year.

Plasmolifting, PRP method - the name follows from the technology of the procedure. When plasma, enriched with platelets, is injected under the client's skin, rejuvenation occurs. Metabolic processes accelerate in the epidermal cells, and oxygen saturation of the skin begins. The cells regenerate on their own. The skin acquires a natural shade, wrinkles and folds are smoothed out. This procedure has been offered since the age of 25 to prevent aging. After 35 years, it is most effective to perform these manipulations in combination with other courses, then the result will be as lasting and noticeable as possible.

Mesotherapy is the introduction of meso-cocktails under the skin. This is a biological composition specially selected for the patient (hyaluronic acid, vitamins, etc.), which is formed depending on the existing problem. It is carried out in a course of 3-4 procedures to achieve a good result of muscle tightening. It is recommended to perform it when the first signs of skin aging appear and if there are problems (pigment spots, acne, etc.).

Read material on the topic: Mesothreads for facelift: pros and cons of the procedure

Non-surgical facial rejuvenation using “youth injections”

Fillers, which include hyaluronic acid, play the role of a thin gel subcutaneous “pad” to fill wrinkles. Fillers are also effective for adding volume to cheeks, cheekbones, and lips. For example, the administration of Radiesse preparations is indispensable for long-term correction of wrinkles and the midface. It is natural, is not rejected by the body and “works” regularly for 1-2 years, after which it is completely eliminated.

Xeomin can be called an improved Botox. According to the manufacturer, the Merz company, the rejuvenating facial procedure with Xeomin injections is safe and very effective.

Facial muscle lift at home

It is possible to correct the oval of the face and even tighten the skin a little at home. To do this, in the early stages, you can use regular cucumber juice, which you need to freeze, and then wipe your skin with a cube of such ice in the morning. For these purposes, you can use infusions of herbs (wormwood, chamomile, dandelion leaves, etc.).

The temperature contrast technique (alternating use of cold and hot compresses) and gymnastics for tightening facial muscles are effective.

Modern cosmetics contain substances that can slightly correct the shape of the face. So, on the shelves you can see various creams with collagen, protein and amino acids. In addition, they add a large number of plant extracts and oils of plant origin, as well as the well-known vitamins E, A, C. Some compositions include beeswax, hop estrogens, and blue clay.

With the help of alginate masks and serums, you can achieve a quick, but not long-term, muscle tightening effect, since they have a similar composition, but a higher concentration.

Exercises for the facial muscles to tighten the oval at home are widespread. To achieve better results, it is recommended to combine them with massage (you can use a special simulator).

The simplest exercise for tightening the muscles of the face and neck: try to slowly pronounce all the vowels of our alphabet, but only by opening your mouth wide and tensing your muscles a little. Or hold a pencil between your lips and write the alphabet and numbers in the air.

Read material on the topic: Myofascial facial massage - a modern method of rejuvenation without surgery

Performing a circular lift

A circular facelift will be recommended if you have the following problems:

• “Blurred” facial contours;
• Double chin and flabby neck;
• Sagging cheeks (not only due to age, but also after strong and rapid weight loss);
• Pronounced nasolabial folds;
• Drooping eyebrows and eyelids;
• Drooping corners of the eyes and lips;
• General sagging skin of the face and neck.

However, not everyone can solve this with plastic surgery. If any of these problems are not congenital, then it is better not to undergo surgery until the age of 35. At this age, all changes can still be eliminated with careful self-care and regular facial exercises.

There are also strict contraindications:

• Pregnancy and lactation;
• Exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• Oncology;
• Any tumors;
• Blood clotting disorders;
• Endocrine disorders (diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, goiter);
• Infection (flu, bronchitis, hepatitis, tuberculosis, syphilis, malaria, etc.);
• Hypertension of grade 2 and above;
• Presence of a pacemaker, metal staples and prostheses after operations;
• Tendency to keloids - scars made of connective tissue.

Therefore, before undergoing a circular facelift, the patient undergoes a comprehensive examination. What does it include:

• General blood and urine tests;
• ECG;
• Liver test;
• Prothrombin index;
• Blood for glucose;
• Blood for prolactin;
• Bacterial smears;
• Wasserman reaction;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• Mammography;
• Examination by a gynecologist.

Additional consultations or laboratory tests may be prescribed.

On the day of the operation, you also need to follow strict rules:

1. Do not eat or drink. The operation is performed on an empty stomach, mainly in the first half of the day.
2. Do not smoke for at least 6 hours before surgery.
3. Do not drink alcohol 2 days before surgery.
4. Remove all makeup, do not apply cream or use hair styling products.
5. Take a shower the day before and wash your hair thoroughly.
6. The day before surgery, do not take anticoagulants - blood thinning drugs.
7. Sometimes you need to give up tanning 2 weeks in advance; this is usually necessary for laser tightening.

Where in Moscow to sign up for a facial muscle tightening procedure

Nowadays, you no longer have to spend a lot of time performing complex and unpleasant procedures at home. It is much easier to seek help from real professionals - the Veronika Herba beauty and health center, equipped with effective and modern equipment.

Why clients choose Veronika Herba Beauty and Health Center:

• This is a beauty center where you can take care of yourself at a reasonable cost, while your face and/or body will be treated not by an ordinary cosmetologist, but by one of the best dermatologists in Moscow. This is a completely different, higher level of service!
• You can receive qualified help at any time convenient for you. The beauty center is open from 9:00 to 21:00, seven days a week. The main thing is to agree with your doctor in advance on the date and time of your appointment.

Sign up for a consultation with a specialist by phone 8 (495) 995-15-13

, and you will see for yourself!

Results of non-surgical lifting in the photo

Experts do not guarantee a long-term rejuvenation effect after a facelift without surgery. This is due to the fact that during the procedure only the upper layers of the dermis are treated, while the deeper layers remain untouched. Usually the result lasts for three years, then the corners of the lips, eyes, and eyebrows will begin to droop down again. However, after lifting, patients note significant changes in their skin condition.

The stimulating effect on local areas leads to the activation of the regeneration mechanism, increased synthesis of collagen and elastin. The launched natural rejuvenation process provides a pronounced and long-lasting effect, manifested as follows.

1. Increasing the tone of the dermis, demonstrating a lifting effect, restoring elasticity, tightening sagging skin.
2. Reduction of wrinkles, prevention of their formation in the future.
3. Improving skin color, eliminating bags under the eyes, puffiness.

It should be taken into account that each technique has its own characteristics, on which the final result depends.