Question: Given all the less invasive facelift alternatives, do you think it’s usually worth it to spend the money and get the full surgery for better, longer lasting results?
Answer: Facial rejuvenation can be considered a spectrum, with less invasive procedures yielding shorter-term, less-dramatic changes, and more extensive procedures providing long-term, more substantial outcomes. The decision whether to rejuvenate with chemical peels, lasers, injectable fillers, neurotoxins, “mini” facelifts, or “full” facelift should be customized to each person’s individual situation after consultation with a plastic surgeon. Some patients with minor deformities can achieve an excellent result from less-invasive techniques, and some patients simply want a subtle improvement with minimal downtime. Other patients desire the effects that can only be achieved with surgery. The abbreviated facelift procedures can have good results in certain patients with limited deformities, but usually the better, longer-lasting results come from the investment in the full facelift.