If you are considering a cosmetic procedure to tighten forehead skin, lift your brows and improve the general contour of your face, there are a few options. After some research, most patients in 2019 ask about the differences between a facelift vs Botox. It’s important to note that each option is very different in its benefits and risks, how the procedure is performed and the expected recovery time. Before you choose which procedure is right for you, a comprehensive conversation with your plastic surgeon is crucial. Educating yourself before this conversation is a great way to ensure you ask the right questions. Read on to learn more about each option.
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What is a facelift?
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical cosmetic procedure that tightens skin, removes any excess skin, if necessary, and lifts facial muscles and tissue. Facelift surgery reshapes the bottom half of the face, giving a more youthful appearance. If you have deep wrinkles or sagging skin, this cosmetic surgery may be the right solution for you.
What is the procedure for a facelift?
There are a few different approaches to performing facelift surgery. The method that is used is determined by the plastic surgeon who is performing the procedure. However, the following steps are generally used when performing a facelift.
- The medical team administers anesthesia. The doctor administers intravenously or using general anesthesia. You will be asleep during the procedure. This ensures your comfort as the plastic surgeon makes the necessary incisions.
- The plastic surgeon makes the incision. Depending on your goals for the procedure, facelift options include a traditional facelift, limited incision facelift or a neck lift. The incision for a traditional facelift begins at the hairline, goes around the ear and ends in the lower scalp. The doctor redistributes fat from the face, jowls, and neck. He repositions any underlying tissue. The deeper layers of the face and the muscles are also lifted. Skin is then repositioned over the uplifted contours and excess skin is removed. A limited incision facelift uses shorter incisions at the temples and continues around the ear. In a neck lift, the incision often begins in front of the ear lobe and wraps around behind the ear. It ends in the hair behind the ear.
- The plastic surgeon closes the incision. Sutures or skin adhesives are typically used to close the incision. Sutures may dissolve on their own or your doctor will remove them after a few days.
- The patient recovers. After the procedure, your medical team takes you to the recovery room. Your medical team will monitor your vitals and ensure you are recovering smoothly.
What is Botox?
Botox is a purified form of the botulinum toxin. When the plastic surgeon injects this toxin, it blocks nerve signals in the muscles at the injection site. As a result, Botox injections temporarily paralyze the muscle. When the muscle is paralyzed, wrinkles are significantly reduced.
What is the procedure for Botox injections?
The procedure for Botox injections is minimally invasive and typically takes 15-20 minutes. The plastic surgeon uses microneedles to inject the substance into the desired treatment areas. Three to four injections per muscle is typical. You will see results anywhere from a few hours afterward to three days.
Benefits & risks of facelift surgery
Facelift Benefits
- Major visible results compared to injectable solutions.
- Long-lasting results that can maintain themselves for a decade or longer.
- Addresses more significant skin issues when compared to other treatment options.
Facelift Risks
- Anesthesia is necessary, adding some risk to the procedure.
- There is a prolonged recovery period. Typically, patients require two weeks of downtime.
- Bruising and visible stitches may be necessary.
Benefits & risks of Botox injections
Botox Benefits
- The treatment takes 15 minutes and is minimally invasive.
- There is no downtime/recovery period for this procedure.
- Botox may be more cost-effective for your desired results depending on the number of treatments.
- The effects can last three months or more.
Botox Risks
- Botox results are temporary and ongoing treatments are necessary to maintain the look you want.
- Minor bruising and swelling occur in some patients.
- Botox does not address sagging skin.
How to choose between a facelift vs Botox
The right plastic surgeon will be able to help you choose between a facelift vs Botox. He should be able to explain all of your options and answer any lingering questions you might have about the procedure and your recovery. Dr. Berlet has a large clientele base in northern New Jersey and New York City. He helps patients choose the right cosmetic procedure to achieve their goals. Contact us if you have questions about facelifts or Botox injections!