Over time, the face can develop a number of signs of aging, from wrinkles and fine lines to sagging skin and unwanted folds. These unwelcome developments can cause many to feel self-conscious and less youthful. When looking to turn back the clock and rejuvenate the face, there are a variety of options available. Whether a patient chooses a traditional facelift or a non-surgical alternative depends on the extent of the desired changes and personal preference. According to Dr. Jack Peterson of the Topeka Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center, understanding the pros and cons of each type of treatment is critical.
Fantasy vs. Reality: Hollywood Perfect Skin
With movies and social media filled with images of stunningly beautiful people, the idea of flawless skin and perfect features has become synonymous with youth and beauty in American culture. However, achieving this idealized appearance is not always attainable for everyone. Advances in cosmetic surgery and treatments can help to reduce the signs of aging and improve the look of the face, but it is important to remember that no one can completely erase all of the signs of aging. Regardless of the treatment chosen, the goal should be to achieve a natural and refreshed look that fits with each patient’s individual characteristics.
Finding the Right Doctor
When deciding to undergo facial rejuvenation treatment, patients should always take the time to find a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon. The right doctor will take the time to fully understand the patient’s goals and concerns and can make recommendations about which treatment options are best for each individual need. Dr. Jack Peterson is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped countless patients to achieve their cosmetic goals by providing attentive care and superior surgical skill.
Understanding the Options: Facelift vs. Non-Surgical Treatments
When it comes to facial rejuvenation, one of the first decisions patients must make is whether they wish to undergo a traditional facelift or opt for a non-surgical treatment. A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a more invasive surgical procedure that eliminates sagging skin and wrinkles, while a non-surgical treatment, such as Botox or dermal fillers, can improve the appearance of the face without the need for surgery.
Facelift
A facelift is typically performed under general anesthesia or with the use of intravenous sedation and takes anywhere from two to three hours to complete. During the procedure, excess skin and tissue are removed and the underlying muscles are lifted and repositioned. This yields a smoothed and more youthful look to the face. Most patients will take about two weeks to fully recover and see noticeable improvements.
Non-Surgical Options
On the opposite end of the spectrum are non-surgical treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, and laser skin resurfacing. These treatments, which generally take less than an hour to complete, can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. Patients considering a non-surgical treatment should realize that the results may not be as dramatic as those achieved with a facelift and may need to be repeated in order to maintain their results.
Conclusion
When making the decision of which treatment is most suitable for facial rejuvenation, Dr. Jack Peterson recommends that patients carefully weigh the pros and cons of each procedure. The decision should take into account not only the desired results, but also the patient’s medical history and their expectations. Facelifts and non-surgical treatments can both yield excellent results when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon. With the right doctor and treatment, patients can achieve a more refreshed and youthful appearance that can help improve confidence and self-esteem.