If you’re ready for facial rejuvenation, but (A) aren’t ready for a surgical facelift; (B) aren’t medically cleared for a surgical facelift; (C) don’t have time to recover from a surgical facelift or (D) want a more budget-friendly option, come in and see me about a Liquid Facelift, also called a Lunchtime Facelift, to rejuvenate your appearance in rapid fashion with a recovery time of only a few hours!

What is a Liquid Facelift?

A liquid facelift is sometimes called a chemical facelift because it’s performed with chemicals—Botox® and fillers—rather than a scalpel. A liquid facelift uses Botox® to relax the wrinkles around the eyes, in the forehead and between the brows. Dermal fillers, such as Juvéderm and others are used to fill the wrinkles to make them less visible. The result is a refreshed, younger-looking appearance that, while not permanent, lasts anywhere from 6-18 months depending on the products used. A longer lasting option is fat transfer, which involves fat removed via liposuction before processing and injecting it. Fat Transfer is a bit more involved than the injection of commercial fillers but it’s still far shy of a surgical facelift and results last longer than dermal fillers.

How Much Time Does a Liquid Facelift Take?

After you’ve arrived at my Portage or Battle Creek plastic surgery office, my medical assistant will apply an anesthetic cream on your skin. After about 45 minutes to an hour that is removed and I will then inject the right amounts of Botox® and fillers to improve your appearance. From beginning to end, expect to spend about an hour in our office. Some patients remain in the office to apply ice packs and some take a few ice packs with them. All return to their regular schedule following treatment.

An alternative to dermal fillers is fat transfer. Excess fat removed by liposuction from your tummy, thighs, back or other parts of your body is processed and injected into your wrinkles and/or areas that require plumping, such as the lips or cheeks. Although initially more expensive than dermal fillers, fat tends to remain in the body indefinitely, compared with fillers, which generally lose effectiveness within 6-18 months after injection.

Are There Risks With a Liquid Facelift?

Other than perhaps some swelling and/or bruising, risks are extremely low. All of my Liquid Facelift patients are cautioned to stop any blood thinners at least a week prior to injection to minimize the potential for bruising (if you take them, you must speak with your doctor prior to stopping them!). These include prescription blood thinners (Coumadin, Warfarin, etc), Vitamin E and aspirin. Since no general anesthesia, sutures or surgery is done, a Liquid Facelift does not have the risks of a surgical facelift. This is especially helpful for patients who have chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure, which might stop them from having a surgical facelift.

What is the Recovery Time for a Liquid Facelift?

Most patients go about their business immediately after they leave the office. Some of my patients have the procedure performed on a Friday just in case they have a little swelling, so that it goes down by Monday. Remember, there are no sutures or bandages, so there is no need for follow-up visits to remove them.

If you have concerns about facial aging, come in and see me for a consultation. Together, we’ll discuss your goals and review all the options to improve your appearance, including treatments with our aesthetician, Sarah. When you leave, you’ll have a plan for improvement including prices and dates. Can’t wait to see the new you!