There are a few different options when it comes to procedures that can help improve the appearance of your face. But, what’s the difference between a facelift and facial reshaping? And, which one should you get? Here’s a look at the differences between these two procedures and when you might want to consider each option.
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What is facial reshaping, and what is a facelift?
A facelift is a surgical operation that tightens and lifts your facial and neck skin. It can help you look younger by reducing wrinkles and age spots. Facial contouring, on the other hand, is a non-surgical process that shapes your face by removing or adding fat. It can help you look younger without undergoing surgery. Both operations can be performed on their own or in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures like a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or nose surgery.
The procedures involved in each surgery
A facelift involves making incisions in your skin, repositioning the underlying tissue, and redressing the skin on your face. Otherwise known as a Rhytidectomy, its popularity has grown as techniques have been developed to minimize scarring.
Procedures undertaken in a facelift include:
-Anesthesia is applied to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
-Incisions are made along your hairline at your temples, extending in a natural line in front of or behind your ears (or both). In some cases, a limited incision may be made within the lower eyelid.
-Underlying muscles and connective tissue may be tightened.
-Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is redraped over the new contours of your face.
-Incisions are closed with sutures, staples, or surgical tape.
A facelift can take two to five hours, depending on the work being done.
On the other hand, facial reshaping uses injectable fillers made of substances such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, or fat to add volume to your face and smooth out wrinkles.
Some steps involved are:
-Anesthesia is applied to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
-The filler material is injected into your face using a needle or cannula, a thin tube.
-The doctor may massage the area to help distribute the filler evenly.
-You may be asked to make facial expressions so the doctor can see how the filler is working.
-The results are immediate, and you can usually go home the same day.
-Facial reshaping typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.
The benefits of each surgery
The results of a facelift can give you a more youthful appearance. This can boost your self-assurance. It’s also possible to combine it with additional treatments like a forehead lift, eyelid surgery, or nose surgery.
A facelift can:
-Tighten loose skin on your face and neck
-Smooth out deep creases under your eyes
-Reduce the appearance of jowls caused by sagging in your midface
-Make your facial features look more proportionate
On the other hand, facial reshaping is typically done to:
-Achieve a more youthful appearance
– improve the look of drooping eyelids
-Reduce wrinkles and fine lines
-Tighten skin on your face
-Eliminate or reduce double chin
The risks associated with each surgery
A facelift procedure may entail risks such as bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. You may also experience temporary bruising, swelling, and numbness around the incision sites. It’s also possible that you won’t be satisfied with the results of your facelift. This is especially the case if you desire a radical change in your current appearance.
Facial reshaping risks include those associated with surgery, such as bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. You also may experience temporary bruising, swelling, and numbness around the incision sites. Nerve damage is possible, resulting in numbness or paralysis of certain facial muscles. However, risks are unique to individual procedures. So be sure to consult your physician before deciding on a course of action. Just as with any surgery, there’s a risk that you won’t be satisfied.
Recovery time for each surgery
An estimated recovery time for a facelift is about two to three weeks. Most patients demonstrate significant improvement within the first two weeks following surgery. It is important to keep your head elevated for at least the first week and a half, as this will help reduce swelling. You will also need to sleep on your back during this period. Strenuous activity for at least four to six weeks should also be avoided.
Recovery time for facial reshaping is typically shorter than that of a facelift. You can expect most of the swelling to go down within the first week. You may have some bruising around your eyes for up to two weeks. It is important to avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks following surgery.
Which surgery would be best for you?
Your goals and what you aim to achieve with the surgery will determine which procedure is ideal for you. A facelift may be a better option if you want a more dramatic alteration.
Facial reshaping, on the other hand, may be a better alternative if you want to improve the appearance of your skin and treat any tiny wrinkles. Finally, you should speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon about your alternatives and the best surgery for you.
Why do facelifts fail?
There are several reasons why facelifts can fail. One of the most common reasons is that the results are not what the patient expected. So be certain to have all your questions and concerns addressed by your physician prior. In some cases, the results may be too subtle, and in others, they may be too drastic. Another reason for failure is a poor surgical technique. This can lead to uneven results or visible scarring.
It is important to remember that face-lifting or facial reshaping are serious and impactful medical procedures. Such a decision should not be undertaken lightly. Be sure to do your research and consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to make the best decision for yourself.