FACT: As a facial plastic surgeon, I can honestly say that there is nothing out there—be it an in-office treatment or topical cream —will yield results that can even come close to that of an actual, surgical facelift. Yes, surgical facelifts will give you immediate and DRAMATIC results, improving the appearance of sagging skin, turkey neck, jowls, and double chin. Surgical facelift is great for those with moderate to severe skin laxity, but may come with associated risks and downtime. For those who want to delay surgery, minimally-invasive skin tightening and lifting procedures are available. At MD Skin Lab, we offer some of the best treatments on the aesthetic market.
1. Lutronic Genius RF Microneedling
What It Is: “Genius RF is a combination of microneedling and radiofrequency. Tiny needles go as deep as four millimeters into the dermis, delivering radiofrequency energy that heats up the skin, in turn stimulating the production of collagen. Dr. Tan likes radiofrequency technology in general, particularly for those who have laxity in the face and neck or jawline, and lauds the Genius RF Microneedling for also helping to improve the overall texture and tone of the skin as well.
How Much It Costs: A full-face and/or neck treatment can cost anywhere from around $100 to $1,400.
How Invasive It Is: Not very. Your face will be covered with numbing cream, and while the procedure can take up to an hour, downtime is generally just one to two days of mild redness and swelling.
Lift Factor: RF technology is all about tightening laxity and loose skin, creating a natural lift. It is best for patients in their early stages of aging. When done consistently once or twice a year, it can definitely delay the need for surgical intervention.
2. Fillers
What It Is: Both hyaluronic acid fillers (such as Juvederm) and biostimulatory options (such as Sculptra) can provide visible and immediate lifting as well as volumetric support of the face. As we mature, we lose fat, collagen, and bone, all of which are supporting structures for our facial skin. Fillers add back volume under the skin, effectively lifting it. Common areas where they’re used include the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and jawline.
How Much It Costs: The price tag can add up pretty quickly. Dermal filler treatment can range anywhere from $800 to $1000 per syringe at MD Skin Lab, and for lifting purposes, at least 2-3 syringes are needed for maximum results. That being said, the results can last for up to 15-18 months, if not more, depending on the type of filler and where it’s injected.
How Invasive It Is: Very minimal. Filler needles are small, and the filler is often combined with a topical numbing agent to dull any discomfort. Swelling or bruising is possible, though there’s no real downtime.
Lift Factor: Anyone who has lost even a little volume in their face is a candidate for filler. While the lifting results may not necessarily be as dramatic as those of a facelift, the subtle enhancement is often ideal for those seeking a more understated boost to their face.
CONTACT US to learn more about these treatments and how Dr. Tan can empower you to look and feel your best.
