The visible signs of ageing can be a source of frustration for many. As we mature, our skin loses elasticity, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin. Fortunately, modern advancements in facial aesthetics offer a variety of solutions to combat these concerns. When considering facial rejuvenation, two primary options emerge: surgical and non-surgical facelift procedures.

Dr Denton, a leading board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Vancouver, will guide you in order to gain a clearer understanding of the distinctions between surgical facelifts and their non-surgical counterparts. Explore their benefits, drawbacks, and ideal candidacy. His aim is to assist you in making an informed decision about your facial rejuvenation journey.

Understanding the Surgical Facelift and Its Impact

A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to address the visible signs of ageing on the face and neck. It targets loose skin, deep wrinkles, and jowls, aiming to restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

This comprehensive approach involves making incisions around the ears and temples, allowing the surgeon to tighten and lift the underlying muscles and tissues. By doing so, it can effectively reduce the appearance of sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and jowls, creating a more youthful, rejuvenated facial appearance.

The facelift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and can take several hours to complete. Patients can expect a recovery period of one to two weeks, during which time they may experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort. However, the results of a well-executed facelift can be long-lasting, often lasting for 7-10 years or more.

Facelift before and after photos of a mature female. Surgery performed by Dr Denton

Benefits of a Surgical Facelift

  • Long-term results
  • Comprehensive rejuvenation
  • Customizable to patient needs

The Facelift Procedure

Consultation

A meticulous assessment by Dr Denton forms the groundwork. He evaluates your facial features, skin quality, medical history, and aesthetic goals to craft a personalised facelift plan.

The Surgical Approach

Dr Denton employs advanced techniques like the SMAS technique, which goes beyond simply tightening the skin. This method addresses the underlying muscular structure as well, ensuring a more natural and long-lasting result. Strategic incisions, typically hidden within the hairline or around the ears, provide access. Excess skin is meticulously removed, and the underlying tissues are lifted and repositioned. In some cases, liposuction might be incorporated to address fatty deposits.

Recovery

Following surgery, some swelling and bruising are expected. Dr Denton will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and minimise discomfort.

Non-surgical Facelifts and Their Advantages

In contrast, a non-surgical facelift, also known as a liquid facelift or a nonsurgical skin tightening treatment, is a less invasive alternative that aims to achieve similar results without the need for surgery. This approach involves the use of injectable dermal fillers, neurotoxins (such as Botox), or a combination of both, to address the signs of ageing.

Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane, are used to restore volume and plumpness to the face, smoothing out wrinkles and folds. Neurotoxins, on the other hand, work by temporarily relaxing the underlying muscles, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles and lines.

The non-surgical facelift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, with the entire process taking less than an hour. Patients can expect minimal downtime, with only minor bruising or swelling that usually resolves within a few days. The results of a non-surgical facelift are more temporary, lasting around 6-12 months, depending on the type of treatment and the individual’s response.

A woman who is about to undergo a non-surgical facelift with dermal filler treatments .Hyaluronic acid injections for specific areas.Correct wrinkles

Common Non-surgical Facelift Procedures

  • Botox: This injectable relaxes overactive facial muscles, smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines, particularly around the forehead, eyes, and brow area.
  • Dermal Fillers: Fillers add volume to specific areas of the face, plumping up wrinkles, creases, and sagging cheeks, ultimately creating a more youthful contour.
  • Skin Tightening Treatments: Technologies like radiofrequency and ultrasound can stimulate collagen production, leading to firmer and tighter skin.

Advantages of Non-surgical Facelifts

  • Minimal Downtime: Non-surgical procedures typically involve little to no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities quickly.
  • Less Invasive: These treatments are less invasive compared to surgery, making them suitable for individuals with a lower tolerance for pain or those apprehensive about surgery.
  • Gradual Results: Non-surgical facelifts allow for a gradual approach to rejuvenation, enabling you to fine-tune the results over time.

Factors to Consider: Which Procedure is Right for You?

When deciding between a surgical facelift and a non-surgical facelift, there are several factors to consider:

The Extent of Facial Ageing

The severity of your facial ageing and the degree of skin laxity, muscle descent, and volume loss will play a significant role in determining the most appropriate treatment. Patients with more advanced signs of ageing may benefit more from the comprehensive approach of a surgical facelift, while those with less pronounced concerns may find the non-surgical option more suitable.

Recovery Time and Downtime

As mentioned, a surgical facelift involves a longer recovery period and more downtime compared to a non-surgical facelift. If you have a busy lifestyle or limited time to devote to a lengthy recovery, the non-surgical approach may be the better choice.

Longevity of Results

While non-surgical facelifts offer more immediate results, the effects are often more temporary, requiring regular maintenance treatments to maintain the desired outcome. In contrast, a well-performed surgical facelift can provide long-lasting results, often lasting for several years.

Personal Preferences and Goals

Ultimately, the decision between a surgical facelift and a non-surgical facelift comes down to your personal preferences and goals. Some patients may prefer the more dramatic, long-lasting results of a surgical facelift, while others may be drawn to the minimally invasive nature and shorter recovery time of the non-surgical option.

Ideal Candidates for a Surgical Facelift

  • Individuals with significant sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and jowls.
  • Those seeking a dramatic and long-lasting improvement in facial contours.
  • People who are comfortable with the risks and recovery associated with surgery.

Ideal Candidates for Non-surgical Facelifts

  • Individuals with mild to moderate signs of ageing, such as fine lines and early signs of sagging.
  • Those seeking subtle improvements and a more natural look.
  • People who prefer a less invasive approach or have a lower tolerance for pain.

The Expertise of Dr Denton Makes the Difference

Regardless of the approach you choose, selecting a board-certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr Denton is paramount. His extensive experience, meticulous technique, and dedication to patient satisfaction ensure exceptional outcomes. Here’s why Dr Denton is the ideal choice for your facial rejuvenation journey:

  • Unwavering Dedication: Dr Denton is passionate about facial aesthetics and prioritizes achieving natural-looking, long-lasting results that harmonize with your unique facial features.
  • Cutting-Edge Techniques: He remains at the forefront of facial plastic surgery advancements, continually refining his techniques to deliver the most effective and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.
  • Personalised Care: Dr Denton understands that every patient has unique goals and concerns. He tailors his approach to each individual, creating a personalised treatment plan to meet your specific desires.

Taking the Next Step: Your Consultation with Dr Denton

Dr Denton, a qualified facial plastic surgeon, sitting at his officeIf you’re considering a facelift or non-surgical facelift, you should schedule a consultation with Dr Denton, to discuss your options and determine the best course of action for you. With his expertise and commitment to excellence, he can help you achieve the refreshed, rejuvenated appearance you desire.

Computer imaging can also be used to reflect the anticipated changes. Dr Denton’s philosophy is that the patient must be an equal member of the decision-making team so that he or she can make sound informed decisions and will be aware of the expected result.

Our private and comfortable offices are located in the heart of Vancouver’s medical corridor, just one block from Vancouver General Hospital. Our state-of-the-art on-site surgical suite allows all patient visits – from consultation through surgery and post-operative follow-up – to be scheduled at this location, adding simplicity, familiarity, and convenience to the patient experience. 

Schedule your facial rejuvenation consultation online or call 604-879-3223 and find out how Dr Denton can help you achieve the result that will make you feel more confident about your appearance.