When it comes to facial rejuvenation, today’s patients have more options than ever. Injectable treatments such as dermal fillers and BOTOX® can smooth wrinkles and restore lost volume without surgery. On the other hand, facelift surgery provides more extensive, longer-lasting rejuvenation. So how do you know which option is right for you?
As a leading facelift expert, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Steven Daines helps patients understand the strengths of each approach and choose the treatment plan that best matches their needs. Let’s take a closer look at the differences so you can confidently weigh the benefits of a facelift vs. fillers.
The Appeal of Fillers and BOTOX
Injectable treatments are often the first step for patients looking to refresh their appearance.
- Dermal fillers restore lost volume in the cheeks, lips, and under the eyes while smoothing lines around the nose and mouth.
- BOTOX relaxes facial muscles to soften frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet.
The benefits are clear: the treatments are quick, require little to no downtime, and deliver noticeable improvement. However, their results are temporary. BOTOX typically lasts 3 to 4 months, while fillers may last 6 months to 2 years, depending on the product and placement.
For patients with early signs of aging or those not ready for surgery, injectables can provide a satisfying, short-term solution.
Facelift vs a Nonsurgical Facelift
As signs of aging become more pronounced, the limits of fillers and BOTOX (a combination called a nonsurgical or ‘liquid’ facelift) become more apparent. They cannot lift sagging skin or correct significant jowling and neck laxity. This is where facelift surgery becomes the more effective, longer-lasting option.
Dr. Daines specializes in the deep plane facelift, one of the most advanced and natural-looking facelift techniques available. Unlike traditional facelifts that primarily tighten the skin or superficial layers, the deep plane approach repositions the deeper facial tissues, including the muscles and ligaments. This method restores youthful volume and contour to the midface, jawline, and neck while avoiding the “pulled” look associated with less advanced techniques.
Because the deeper tissues are lifted and secured, the results are not only more dramatic but also longer lasting. Patients typically describe looking refreshed and vibrant, not different or overdone.
Facelift Before and After Photos
Making Your Decision
The choice between fillers and a facelift depends on several factors:
- Your age
- The severity of your skin laxity
- How long you want your results to last
Someone in their 30s or early 40s with mild changes may find that fillers and BOTOX achieve their goals. But if you’re in your 40s, 50s, or 60s and see sagging skin, deeper folds, or a loss of definition along the jawline, surgery may offer the transformative improvement you’re seeking.
It’s also common to combine surgery with injectable treatments. Many of Dr. Daines’ facelift patients continue with occasional injections of fillers or BOTOX after facelift surgery to maintain smooth skin and address fine lines that surgery alone doesn’t treat.
Making an Informed Choice
Choosing between fillers and surgery isn’t about which treatment is better; it’s about which is better for you at this stage in your life. Dr. Daines is known not only for his surgical expertise but also for his thoughtful, personalized consultations. He takes the time to evaluate your features, listen to your goals, and recommend a treatment plan that delivers results you’ll feel comfortable and confident with.
You can request a consultation using the online form to meet personally with Dr. Daines, or call our office at (949) 209-1622 to schedule an appointment.
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