Are you thinking of getting a face lift?
If you've done your research, you understand that the traditional approach involves surgery. That means there will anaesthesia, incisions, cutting of excess skin, and so on.
Recovery will take about 2 to 3 weeks. That's a considerable amount of downtime, especially if you can't take time off work.
The good news is you can get a face lift without surgery. Ever heard of Botox or dermal fillers? Of course, you have!
Let's explore those options in detail. The more you know the more you can decide on the right non-surgical facial procedure for you.
What is Botox and How Does It Work?
Did you know that Botox isn't only for smoothing wrinkles? Botox has medical uses, which we'll get to in a bit. But what you need to keep in mind is that Botox is a neurotoxin.
Now if that sounds a lot like a poison to you, it is. It's a powerful one derived from a bacterium (Clostridium botulinum). But you don't have to worry because a medical professional will use Botox the right way.
Botulinum toxin or Botox prevents signals from the nerve cells when injected. And when these signals don't reach the muscles, it results in temporary paralysis.
Other than fighting wrinkles, Botox can help treat several different conditions. These include migraines, acne, excessive sweating, depression, overactive bladder, and neck spasms.
Does Botox Hurt?
It depends on your tolerance to pain. Some people can tolerate injections well. But there are others who can't abide needles.
What's good about Botox though is how small the needles are. Smaller needles equal less pain. But you can ask your doctor to apply a topical anaesthetic cream.
A cold pack can also help before the procedure. And after the procedure, your doctor should give you after-care instructions. That way, if you feel some discomfort when the topical anaesthetic has worn off, you'll know what to do.
To Botox or Not to Botox?
We're not going to lie. Botox is controversial.
One minute, you'll read about celebrities shunning it in favour of a more natural look. And then the next article you click could be a list of stars who think Botox is a game-changer.
Of course, it's confusing. But the thing you have to remember about Botox is it gives the best results when it's used the right way.
As we've said before, Botox results aren't permanent. If you want to continue looking your best, you'll need further treatments.
Now some people take that the wrong way. They think more is better. So they get far, far too many.
Not only does this give them that crazy, frozen look. It also puts their health and well-being at risk.
What About Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are another no knife facelift alternative worth considering. Like Botox, they are also injectables. But they don't contain neurotoxins.
Instead, they use hyaluronic acid in gel form. These fillers work to fill in wrinkles, resulting in a more plumped-up appearance.
You can opt to have fillers around your eyes, mouth and jawline, and cheeks. There are also lip fillers, directly injected into the lip tissue.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last and Are There Side Effects?
Dermal fillers will last anywhere between six to 18 months. It will depend on how fast your body uses up hyaluronic acid.
As for side effects, it's important to distinguish between temporary and serious reactions. Swelling, redness, and tenderness are temporary reactions. They're quite normal after facial injections.
While less common, serious side effects include infection and granulomas. Injury to the blood vessels is also possible. Even rarer adverse reactions include blindness and tissue death.
To avoid these side effects, get your dermal fillers from a qualified doctor. That applies to Botox injections, as well.
Ask yourself this: Should I entrust my face to a registered medical professional? Or can I get someone from a beauty salon or spa to do it so I can save some money?
It's up to you. But you must realize that one is more knowledgeable when it comes to the anatomy of the face.
Combining Botox and Dermal Fillers
Now that you know about the differences between Botox and dermal fillers, you might be wondering which is better.
Here is where the right doctor can give you guidance. Depending on your areas of concern, your doctor might suggest you get Botox or dermal fillers. In some cases, he or she might recommend doing both for better results.
Your doctor's recommendation will also depend on your health history. This is important as no one is exactly alike.
One patient could have brilliant results with Botox and dermal fillers. And another one could have a severe allergic reaction. Or they could have a medical condition that prevents them from getting injectables.
An Informed Patient Is an Empowered Patient
You've decided. You will get Botox or dermal fillers. All that's left is for you to make an appointment.
But reading articles online may not be enough. When you visit your beauty clinic of choice, make sure to ask the right questions.
Ask where their injectables come from. Knowing the top manufacturers of Botox and dermal fillers will give you an idea if your doctor is using legit products.
Also, be careful when it comes to bargains. If you're getting way too low prices, you should be suspicious.
Last but not the least, never skip the consultation. You want to be sure you're putting your face in the hands of a skilled professional. If a clinic doesn't offer consultations, consider it as a red flag and find yourself another one.
Ready to Get a Face Lift Without Surgery?
Let us help. We specialize in Botox treatments and dermal fillers. For more information on how you can get a face lift without surgery, don't hesitate to contact us.
You may also explore our site if you have any questions or concerns about Botox or dermal fillers.
