Facelift surgery and non-surgical volume treatments are two very different approaches to addressing age-related changes in the face.
A facelift focuses on tightening deeper tissues and addressing skin laxity, while non-surgical options like volume-adding treatments address more with surface-level concerns. The difference isn’t just in how they’re performed, but in how long the results last and what kind of changes you can expect.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between facelift surgery and non-surgical facial volume treatments to help you to better understand which option may be more suited to you.
What facelift surgery targets
Modern facelift techniques usually work on the deeper layers of the face, especially the fibrous tissue layer known as the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system).
This is the part of the face that provides structure – as we get older, this layer begins to loosen, which can lead to skin laxity at the jawline, folds near the nose and mouth, and changes in the mid to lower face.
During a facelift, a surgeon lifts and repositions this deeper layer before removing any excess skin. The result tends to be more structural and longer-lasting, because it isn’t just focusing on the skin at a more surface level.
Facelifts are typically suited to patients in their 40s to 60s, and sometimes older, who have visible skin laxity, jowls, or deep folds that don’t respond well to non-surgical treatments anymore.
There are also different levels of a facelift when it comes to the extent of the procedure. For example, a deep plane facelift can be a more extensive approach than a traditional facelift, or a mini facelift could be performed to just focus on the lower face only.
When it comes to selecting the right type of facelift procedure, it will all depend on the level of skin laxity you have and the type of results you want to achieve.
What non-surgical facial volume treatments can achieve
While a surgical facelift can remove excess skin, non-surgical volume treatments usually aim to fill in areas of the face where fat and soft tissue have lessened in density over time.
Common treatment areas for non-surgical methods include the cheeks, temples, under the eyes, and around the mouth. These treatments can give the illusion of a lifted or fuller appearance, especially in the mid-face, and they’re often used as a short-term option. If patients want to maintain their results, they will need to have on-going touch up treatments.
The main limitation of these treatments is that they cannot address excess skin or skin laxity. For patients who only have milder signs of ageing and don’t want to focus on excess skin, non-surgical treatments can often be a suitable approach.
The differences in the longevity of the results
When it comes to the results of either method, apart from what they are designed to achieve, one of the main differences is how long the results last.
A facelift can make structural changes that can last years, depending on the technique used and the condition of the skin beforehand. While it won’t stop the ageing process, it can mean that only a revision procedure may be necessary much later in life – but often, patients are happy with undergoing only one procedure.
Non-surgical volume treatments, on the other hand, are temporary. Most last anywhere from six to 24 months, depending on the product used, how fast your body breaks it down, and where it was placed.
The differences in recovery times
Since one approach is an extensive surgical procedure and the other approach is non-surgical, the recovery time is very different between the two treatment options.
A facelift usually requires at least two weeks of recovery, sometimes longer, with swelling, bruising, and tightness expected during that period. You’ll need to avoid exercise, sun exposure, and anything that increases blood flow to the face while the tissue heals.
Non-surgical volume treatments have minimal downtime in comparison. Most people go back to normal activities within a day or two. There may be some localised swelling or bruising, but it tends to subside quite quickly. However, some residual swelling can still be present for a little longer.
How to find out which option is right for you
Now that we have explained the main differences between the two treatment options, you may be wondering which option may be more suited to your needs.
Firstly, have a look at the level of skin laxity or excess skin, as well as areas of volume loss. If volume loss is what you would like to focus on, you may be suited to take the non-surgical volume-adding approach. However, if you have a moderate or higher level of skin laxity, you may be more suited to taking the surgical option.
When you have a consultation with a surgeon, they will first ask about your goals to get an idea of what you would like to achieve. Then, they’ll assess your facial tissue for laxity, volume loss and other features such as fine lines. After discussing your goals and assessing the condition of your facial tissue, they can then explain the treatment options, including how they would work and what they can achieve.
This discussion will then allow you to make an informed decision, choosing the method that may work best, with the help of your experienced surgeon.
Discuss your suitability for facelift surgery or non-surgical facial volume treatments with Dr Hunt in Sydney
For personalised advice on what to consider when choosing between having a surgical facelift or non-surgical volume treatments, it’s always best to have a consultation.
Based in Sydney, a consultation will allow Dr Hunt to take a look at the condition of your facial tissue, discuss what you would like to achieve and explain the differences between each method. He can then make recommendations based on your individual needs.
If you would like to schedule your consultation or ask any questions, please get in touch with our team.
