Understanding The Different Types Of Facelifts: A Comprehensive Guide

 Understanding The Different Types Of Facelifts: A Comprehensive Guide

Let's talk facelifts! If you read my blog regularly, you know I frequently discuss them here, and today's topic might surprise you. A recent comment from my sister's boyfriend sparked an idea about facelift myths, particularly the misconception of the "unnatural, pulled-tight look" associated with facelifts. While this was a common concern in the past, advancements in modern aesthetics have revolutionized the procedure.

Facelifts have come a long way! Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all approach. Today's facelifts are all about customization. Whether you're concerned about lines around your eyes, sagging jowls, or a loss of volume in your cheeks, there's a targeted technique designed to address your specific needs.

These advanced techniques deliver natural-looking results with minimal downtime. Imagine the confidence that comes with a refreshed and rejuvenated you without that pulled-tight, unnatural look. So, let's dive in!

Traditional Facelift: The Most Comprehensive Option For Rejuvenation

Before we delve into the exciting world of modern facelift techniques, let's not forget about the tried-and-true traditional facelift, also known as a full facelift or SMAS facelift. This cosmetic surgery remains the most comprehensive option available, offering dramatic results for patients with significant signs of aging in their face and neck.

What it targets:

• Sagging, loose skin
• Deep wrinkles
• Muscle laxity

This plastic surgery involves making incisions along the hairline and behind the ears to access the underlying tissues. The facelift surgeon then tightens the muscles (the SMAS layer, which is why it's sometimes called an SMAS facelift) and repositions excess skin to create a more lifted and youthful appearance.

Bye-Bye Jowls: The Mini Facelift For A Refreshed Look

As the name suggests, the mini facelift offers a less invasive alternative to the traditional one. It primarily focuses on the lower third of the face, making it a popular choice for addressing concerns like jowls, nasolabial folds, and sagging skin around the jawline.

This surgical procedure is becoming increasingly popular among younger patients who want to address the "computer face" or double chin issue. This problem is caused by the constant downward gaze while using computers, laptops, and smartphones, which can weaken the muscles in the chin and jawline, leading to a sagging appearance.

Mini Facelift Benefits:

• Smaller incisions and faster recovery compared to traditional facelifts.
• Subtle improvement without extensive surgery.
• The neck lift targets lower face concerns like jowls and sagging.
• Natural-looking results with advanced techniques.

Ideal Candidates for Mini Facelift:

• Early signs of aging
• Jowls, nasolabial folds, sagging jawline
• Correcting computer face for a refreshed look

Mid-Facelift For Restoring Cheeks And Under-Eyes

A mid-facelift is a surgical technique that targets the middle area of the face, including the cheeks and under-eye area. This technique restores volume and tightens sagging skin in these regions.

Incisions are typically made along the hairline or inside the mouth to access the deeper tissues. This method can also be combined with a traditional or mini facelift for more comprehensive results.

However, keep in mind that it does not address lower face or neck concerns. It's best for patients with early signs of aging in the middle region who want to avoid extensive surgery.

Thread Lift: A Non-Surgical Facelift Option

A thread lift is a non-surgical alternative to traditional facelifts. This facelift procedure uses dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten sagging areas.

It's ideal for addressing mild to moderate signs of aging and requires minimal downtime. However, results are temporary, lasting up to two years, and repeat procedures may be needed for maintenance.

This facial rejuvenation is best for those looking for a quick fix and recovery process, without major surgery. It's essential to consult with an experienced surgeon as only some are suitable candidates for this procedure.

Injection Power: Unveiling The Liquid Facelift - The 8-Point Lift

The 8-point lift, or liquid facelift, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses dermal fillers to address wrinkles and sagging in eight key facial areas. It offers a non-surgical alternative to traditional facelifts for a refreshed appearance with minimal downtime.

 

Target Areas:

• Cheeks
• Cheekbones
• Jowls
• Tear Troughs
• Jawline
• Corners of the mouth
• Nasolabial Folds

 

Enhancing Results With Combination Treatments

The 8-point lift can be further optimized by incorporating both Botox and dermal fillers. While dermal fillers address volume loss and static wrinkles, Botox targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement, such as crow's feet and frown lines. Combining these treatments creates a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation.

 

Exploring The Different Types Of Facelifts

As we've explored, facelifts today offer many options catering to everyone's unique needs. Gone are the days of a "one-size-fits-all" approach that might have left you looking a touch surprised (we're looking at you, old-school techniques!). Modern aesthetic advancements are remarkable, allowing for a more customized and natural-looking rejuvenation, with quicker recovery times.

Remember, the best facelift addresses your specific concerns and leaves you feeling confident and beautiful. So, consult a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to explore all the possibilities! With today's advancements, you can achieve a refreshed and youthful appearance without anyone suspecting you've had a thing done (unless you tell them, of course!).

Want to learn more about facelifts? We've got you covered!

Want to learn more about facelifts? We've got you covered!

Barbie's Beauty Bits is your one-stop shop for all things beauty. With years of experience in the beauty industry, we've become a trusted resource for anyone seeking insider knowledge. The Beauty Business, Behind The Beauty Business, we leverage this expertise to collaborate with the top skincare and beauty brands, aestheticians, med spas, and plastic surgeons.

Head over to our website and explore more articles to discover the secrets to feeling confident and radiant. Until next time, keep glowing!

Exploring The Different Types Of Facelifts: From Traditional To Non-Invasive Options

Exploring the Different Types of Facelifts: From Traditional To Non-Invasive Options

Are you considering a facelift to recapture a youthful look? But did you know there is more than one type of facelift procedure? That's right! Many people don't realize there's a whole world of facelifts beyond the classic "nip and tuck." 

From surgical refinements to super cool, no-cut options, Barbie's Beauty Bits will explore 7 different facelift options. We'll explore everything from traditional techniques to cutting-edge, non-invasive procedures like thread lifts and liquid facelifts. 

This informative journey will help you choose the best facelift option to rejuvenate your appearance. Buckle up because we're starting now!

Traditional Facelifts

In the realm of aesthetic enhancement, traditional facelift techniques stand as a testament to the surgical understanding of the best plastic surgeons, dramatically redefining facial contours with precision and artistry.

Full Facelift

A tradional faclift is known as a  full facelift provides the most comprehensive results. It addresses wrinkles, sagging skin, and fat deposits from the forehead down to the face and neck.

This procedure is best suited for patients with advanced signs of aging who seek significant improvements. The face lift surgery involves making incisions along the hairline and around the ears to remove excess skin and tighten underlying tissues.

Mid-Facelift

As the name implies, a mid facelift is a cosmetic procedure that specifically targets the center of the face, including the cheeks and the area under the eyes. This procedure aims to restore a natural and youthful contour to the mid face area. 

It is typically opted for by individuals who have noticed sagging in the cheek area but do not have significant signs of aging in the forehead or neck.

Mini Facelift

The mini facelift is a cosmetic procedure that targets minimal sagging around the cheeks, jawline, and neck. Smaller incisions are made under the hairline to tighten and smooth skin while removing excess tissue.

This procedure involves less recovery time than a full facelift. It effectively reduces the appearance of minor jowls or eliminates them altogether, making it a perfect choice for those who desire a subtle enhancement. 

Forget The Knife! Unveiling The World Of Non-Surgical Facelifts

Are you dreaming of a younger you but hate the thought of scalpels? Buckle up because we're entering the exciting arena of non-surgical options to help lift the face and minimize wrinkles for a younger you! Here, age-defying magic happens without going under the knife. 

Thread Lift

A thread lift is a less invasive procedure which involves placing dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and support the facial tissues. Beyond the immediate tightening, these threads also stimulate collagen production, further enhancing the youthful look. While results aren't as long-lasting as surgery, the procedure offers a quicker recovery time.

Liquid Facelift

The term "liquid facelift" refers to a procedure that involves a combination of treatments, such as injectable dermal fillers and Botox, to fill in wrinkles, restore volume, and reduce the appearance of sagging- without going through invasive surgery or recovery.

This non-surgical option has no downtime and can achieve immediate results, making it popular for those seeking minor adjustments without surgery.

Laser Facelift

A laser facelift might be ideal if you're interested in tighter, firmer skin, minimizing wrinkles, or a smoother, refreshed look but want to avoid surgery. This non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedure uses lasers to target deeper skin layers, stimulating collagen production for a tighter appearance and reduced wrinkles. It offers a less dramatic result than traditional facelifts but provides a refreshed look without the scalpel. 

Learn All About Types of Facelifts

Let's face it (pun intended!). Aging happens. But that doesn't mean you have to settle for unwanted wrinkles or sagging skin. Whether you're thinking big (facial plastic surgery) or small (think lasers and injections!), there's a facelift option out there to help you achieve a more youthful appearance. 

Remember, what works wonders for someone else might not be the perfect fit for you. That's why a healthy conversation with a qualified professional is a must! They'll help you map out the best plan to leave you feeling confident and glowing. So, ditch the frown lines and get ready to explore the different facelift options that are right for you!

Unveil Your Facelift Journey With The Help Of Barbie's Beauty Bits!

Full facelift? Liquid facelift? Even some area specific lifts like eyebrow lift? Barbie's Beauty Bits offers a library of articles. Discover the right path to a rejuvenated you!. Thanks for reading!

What Is A Deep Plane Facelift And How Does It Work?

What Is A Deep Plane Facelift And How Does it Work?

 Do you wish you could rewind time (without a time machine)?

A deep plane facelift might be your answer! Unlike traditional facelifts, this innovative procedure delves deeper, primarily tightening the skin. It goes beyond the surface, targeting the very foundation of your youthful appearance—the muscular and connective tissues beneath the skin.

This technique allows for more significant and natural-looking results, targeting the underlying structures contributing to facial aging. It addresses issues like sagging skin, undefined jawlines, and hollow cheeks while creating a natural and refreshed appearance. Imagine looking years younger without the tell-tale signs of "work done."

Ready to unlock the secrets of this age-defying treatment? Keep reading!

How Does A Deep Plane Facelift Work?

Imagine a facelift procedure that goes beyond simply tightening the skin's surface. A deep plane facelift does precisely that! This cosmetic surgery targets the deeper layers of your face, specifically the muscles and connective tissues responsible for maintaining a youthful appearance.

Think of these soft tissues and muscles as the foundation of your house. Over time, the foundation can weaken, causing cracks and imperfections on the surface (your skin) – leading to saggy skin. During a deep plane facelift, surgeons access and reposition these deeper structures. It's like reinforcing the foundation, which naturally smooths and evens out the surface (your skin), reducing the signs of aging.

According to the National Library of Medicine, the deep plane facelift aims to improve:

• Nasolabial folds
• Jowling
• Drooping Cheeks
• Facial dimples and laxity
• Lower Eyelid Puffiness

Surgical Technique Of A Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift technique utilizes a precise incision, often near the ears, for discreet placement. This allows access to the deeper facial tissues, the true source of sagging. The Facial Plastic Surgeon repositions and lifts these structures for a rejuvenated look. Imagine sculpting from within to refine the outside!

Advanced techniques and expertise ensure a natural, smooth outcome. Once complete, the incision is closed, and the healing journey begins, revealing your refreshed appearance.

The Benefits Of Deep Plane Facelifts

Deep plane facelifts offer a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation. Unlike traditional techniques that focus solely on the surface layer of skin, deep plane procedures address the deeper tissues responsible for sagging and wrinkles.  

This results in several key benefits:

• Natural-Looking Results: By addressing the underlying causes of aging, deep plane facelifts achieve a more subtle and youthful appearance, avoiding the "pulled tight" look.
• Enhanced Lifting: This technique offers a more significant and long-lasting lift compared to traditional facelifts, effectively restoring a more defined jawline and restoring volume loss.
• Improved Smoothing: As the underlying structure is rejuvenated, wrinkles naturally become less noticeable for a smoother, refreshed appearance.

A Deep Plane Facelift Provides Natural-Looking Results

The primary advantage of a deep-plane facelift is its ability to achieve a natural, youthful appearance. Unlike traditional plastic surgery procedures, which can leave the face looking tight and unnatural, deep-plane techniques focus on restoring your inherent facial features.

Deep plane facelifts address the underlying causes of aging for a natural, well-rested look. This innovative approach restores youthful contours without compromising your unique facial expressions. It's like subtly turning back time, allowing your natural beauty to shine again.

Longer Lasting Improvement Of A Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift has a significant advantage over temporary solutions, delivering lasting improvement. This cosmetic technique ensures longer-lasting correction, minimizing the need for repeat procedures. It is an investment that lets you enjoy a youthful appearance for years; just like a cherished item that retains its beauty for years, a deep plane facelift aims to achieve the same for your face.

In Summary

This advanced procedure offers a natural-looking solution to address sagging skin, redefine your jawline, and restore youthful volume. By targeting the deeper structures that cause facial aging, you can achieve a rejuvenated appearance without the tell-tale signs of "work done."  

Consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to discuss the types of facelifts and to see if a deep plane facelift is right for you and unlock the potential for a more youthful and confident you.

Do you have questions or experiences to share about a Deep plane facelift or any other cosmetic treatment? We'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and join our community.

Thread Lift Magic: Reclaiming Your Youthful Glow

Thread Lift Magic: Reclaiming Your Youthful Glow 

In an era where the pursuit of youthfulness and beauty seems relentless, a revolutionary procedure has been making waves, promising a return to the cherished glow of younger days without the need for invasive surgery. Enter the world of thread lifts, a minimally invasive facelift technique gaining popularity for its efficacy and simplicity in lifting sagging skin.   

Among the various types of thread lifts, the PDO thread lift stands out as a particularly effective method for those seeking to reclaim their youthful appearance. Continue reading to learn more. 

Understanding PDO Thread Lift 

PDO thread lift is a cosmetic technique that lifts and tightens sagging skin tissues by stimulating collagen production. It involves the insertion of Polydioxanone (PDO) threads into the subcutaneous layer of the skin using fine needles.  

These threads are biodegradable, meaning they naturally dissolve in the body over time. The procedure is relatively quick, taking about 45 minutes to an hour, and is done under local anesthesia, which minimizes downtime and allows patients to return to their daily routines shortly after. 

The Magic Behind The Thread Lift Procedure 

The real magic of the PDO thread lift lies in its dual action. First, it provides immediate results by physically lifting the skin, offering an instant youthful appearance. Second, and more importantly, it stimulates the body's natural healing process, encouraging collagen production around the threads. 

This natural response not only amplifies the initial lifting impact but also enhances skin texture, elasticity, and volume, culminating in a natural rejuvenation that provides long-lasting results for the face.

Ideal Candidates For PDO Thread Lift

The ideal candidates for the PDO thread lift are those who are experiencing mild to moderate sagging of facial tissues, especially in their late 30s to early 50s. 

This is the perfect option for those who desire a more youthful appearance but don't want to undergo traditional facelift surgery. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations. It is also an excellent option for individuals who wish to prolong the effects of their previous cosmetic procedures.

Benefits Of PDO Thread Lift 

A PDO thread lift offers a range of benefits for individuals looking to rejuvenate their appearance without undergoing an invasive surgical procedure. Here are some of the key advantages: 

• Minimally invasive: Unlike traditional facelifts, PDO thread lifts do not require large incisions or general anesthesia. The procedure uses fine needles to insert the threads, making it less invasive and reducing the risk of complications and scarring. 
• Immediate results: Patients often notice an instant lift in the treated areas immediately after the procedure. This instant improvement is one of the most appealing aspects of the PDO thread lift. 
• Natural-looking results: The gradual increase in collagen production around the threads leads to natural-looking results. The skin becomes firmer, smoother, and more youthful as time goes on, enhancing the initial lifting effect. 
• Short recovery time: Recovery from a PDO thread lift is quick, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a few days. It's significantly shorter than the recovery time required for surgical facelifts. 
• Adjustable and reversible: If necessary, adjustments can be made post-procedure, and the effects of the thread lift are not permanent. This flexibility allows for changes or improvements in response to the natural aging process. 
• Long-lasting effects: While impermanent, the effects of a PDO thread lift can last between six to 18 months. The longevity of the results, combined with the minimal downtime and low risk, makes it an attractive option for many. 

These benefits make the PDO thread lift an appealing choice for individuals seeking a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option to combat the signs of aging, restore volume, and regain a youthful appearance.

PDO Thread Lift FAQs 

Here are some of the questions most frequently asked about this cosmetic procedure: 

• 'Is the PDO thread lift procedure painful?' 

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which minimally causes discomfort during the thread insertion. Patients may feel a slight pulling sensation but should not experience significant pain. Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

• 'Are there any side effects or risks associated with a PDO thread lift?' 

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, but they are relatively low for a PDO thread lift. Common side effects include soreness at the insertion points as well as some minor swelling and bruising in the treatment areas. There's also a low risk of infection, thread migration, or asymmetry, which can be minimized by choosing an experienced practitioner. 

• 'Can PDO thread lift be combined with other cosmetic procedures?' 

Yes, a PDO thread lift can be combined with other non-surgical treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, or laser therapies to enhance the overall rejuvenation effects. Combining treatments can address various signs of aging, such as volume loss, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin laxity, for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. 

• 'How do I choose a provider for a PDO thread lift?' 

Selecting a qualified, experienced practitioner for your PDO thread lift is crucial. Look for a provider with specific training and a good track record in performing thread lifts. During your consultation, discuss your aesthetic goals, ask about their experience, and request before-and-after photos of their previous work to ensure their results align with your expectations. 

Another factor to consider is the cost of a PDO thread lift, which can vary widely depending on the practitioner's experience, geographic location, and the extent of the treatment. Generally, prices can range from $1,500 to $4,500. It's essential to consider the provider's quality of care and expertise over the cost alone to ensure the best possible outcomes. 

Conclusion 

The PDO thread lift offers a compelling option for those seeking to reclaim their youthful glow with minimal downtime and without the invasiveness of traditional surgery. Its growing popularity is a testament to its effectiveness in providing a more youthful, refreshing appearance. 

As with any cosmetic procedure, consulting a qualified and experienced practitioner is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes. Embrace the magic of thread lift technology and step into a world where youthfulness and natural beauty go hand in hand.

Considering A Facelift? Here's What You Need To Know

Considering A Facelift? Here's What You Need To Know

Today, Barbie's Beauty Bits will be sharing everything you need to know about a facelift. The decision to undergo a facelift is a significant one, often accompanied by a mix of anticipation and apprehension. In a world where the pursuit of youthfulness is ever-present, the facelift has emerged as a popular cosmetic procedure.

Before delving into the intricacies of this transformative surgery, it is imperative to understand the key aspects that guide individuals through the decision-making process and the journey that follows.

The Motivation Behind A Facelift

A profoundly personal motivation lies at the heart of the decision to pursue a facelift. Individuals considering this procedure often seek a refreshed appearance and a renewed sense of confidence despite societal pressures and beauty standards that may influence their decisions. 

Whether it's the desire to address sagging skin, reduce wrinkles, restore facial contours, or even a neck lift, the motivation is inherently tied to one's perception of self and the pursuit of aesthetic enhancement.

Understanding The Facelift Procedure

Facelift or rhytidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, tightens underlying tissues, and sometimes repositions fat deposits to address visible aging signs in the face and neck. A successful facelift will tighten sagging skin in the neck, face, and jaw, eliminate deep wrinkles, reduce double chins, and smooth out facial fat for a more youthful appearance. To minimize visible scarring, skilled surgeons place incisions strategically. Afterward, they raise and relocate the facial tissues, creating a sculpted and genuine-looking outcome.

Advancements in surgical techniques have led to different types of facelifts, including traditional facelifts, mini facelifts, and nonsurgical alternatives like thread lifts. For example, while a traditional facelift usually requires general anesthesia and prolonged downtime, a mini facelift at Hadlock Facial Plastic Surgery may be done without anesthesia or only under local anesthesia. The patient can return home the same day. Ultimately, the goal is the same: to address signs of aging and loose facial skin.

Before Getting A Facelift, Get Real About Your Expectations

Are you a good candidate for a facelift? Well, before embarking on the facelift journey, a crucial step is a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to help you understand the realistic facelift results. Various factors, including overall health, skin elasticity, facial muscles, and the specific concerns of the individual, determine candidacy for the procedure. It is essential to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of a facelift. While the procedure can turn back the clock, it cannot halt the natural aging process entirely.

Recovery And Downtime For A Facelift

Post-surgery, a period of recovery is inevitable. Swelling and bruising are common, and patients are advised to follow specific postoperative care instructions diligently. Downtime varies depending on the extent of the procedure, ranging from a week to several weeks for a complete recovery. Patience and adherence to recovery guidelines are crucial for optimal results.

Possible Side Effects Of A Facelift Surgery

Performing a facelift surgery may cause side effects similar to any other surgical procedure. See some of the possible side effects below. 

• There is a small amount of bleeding from the incision sites
• Bruising and swelling
• Difficulty chewing
• The feeling of tightness around the cheeks and neck
• Mild pain or discomfort

These things will go away after some time, as they are common parts of the recovery process. At any rate, it is best to discuss these issues thoroughly with your surgeon and make an informed decision based on your individual health considerations. If you are well-informed, it becomes easier to plan ahead of the surgery.

Choosing a skilled and reputable provider will also minimize your risks of complications.

Alternatives To Surgical Facelifts

For those seeking facial rejuvenation without the commitment of surgery, nonsurgical alternatives exist. Injectables like dermal fillers and Botox can address fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of volume, providing a more subtle enhancement. While these treatments offer a less invasive option to lift and tighten, their effects are temporary compared to the more long-lasting results of a facelift.

How Facelift Surgery Can Boost Your Confidence And Well-Being

Our face is an essential part of our identity, affecting how we interact with others and feel about ourselves. Our facial appearance can change as we age, making us look tired, sad, or angry. This can lead to a decrease in our self-esteem and affect our emotional well-being.

Facelift surgery can not only enhance our physical appearance, but this cosmetic treatment can boost our confidence and well-being. It can help us feel more aligned with our inner vitality and spirit and rediscover our true selves.

However, it’s important to remember that the decision to undergo surgery should come from a personal desire to improve oneself rather than external pressure or societal influences. Everyone's journey to self-assurance is unique; for some, a facelift can be a transformative step on this path. Clear communication with the surgeon and support from loved ones can contribute significantly to a positive emotional experience.

Post-Facelift Maintenance

A facelift does not halt the aging process; it merely resets the clock. Long-term results depend on factors such as lifestyle, sun protection, and skin care. Making the right choices for your skin, like adopting a consistent skincare routine and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, contributes to preserving the youthful results achieved through a facelift.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it, everything you need to know about a facelift. Remember, a facelift is a personal journey requiring thoughtful consideration and realistic expectations. Consultation with a qualified surgeon is crucial, emphasizing the importance of patience during the recovery period.

While nonsurgical options exist, the enduring confidence from a facelift's long-lasting results aligns physical appearance with inner vitality. Remember, it's a reset, not a permanent solution; post-facelift maintenance involves informed skincare and a healthy lifestyle. The decision should be driven by personal improvement, supported by clear communication and loved ones. Here's to embracing a new chapter with confidence and radiance!

Nano Fat Grafting Vs. Dermal Fillers, Which Is Better For Facial Rejuvenation

 

Which Is Better For Facial Rejuvenation, Nano Fat Grafting or Dermal Fillers? Well, before we answer that question, let's see how many of you can relate to this.

Have you ever seen yourself tagged in a photo on Facebook and think something about your face looks older or looks more tired than you are?  Taking it a step further for those on those numerous zoom calls, who may notice some more unpleasantries, like some loose sagging skin around the mouth, flattened cheeks, even some slight notices of a possible jowl forming?

Well, beauties, you are not alone as what you are experiencing is the loss of facial volume, and there are facial rejuvenation treatments that can help with this. But before I get into these, we at Barbie's Beauty Bits think it is important that you understand why this change is happening, so those who may want to add volume, improve skin texture, etc., can better understand the options, reasons, and outcomes.

What Causes Facial Volume Loss
One quick way to look older than you are is the changes in our skin texture, shape, and volume. These changes come from the loss of collagen, elastin, and fatty tissue that once gave the skin a youthful appearance.

Think round full cheeks, smooth skin, even something I once called an upper lip.  And guess what, this volume loss can start as early as in our 30's. That's right, studies have shown that by the age of 35, our natural aging process causes us to lose about 10% volume in our face, with an additional 5-10% facial fat every 5-10 years. 

This means by the age of 55, the facial muscles are working closer to the skin's surface as many of us have lost about 40% off of facial volume, causing our cheeks to drop and sag, eyes start to appear sallow, and other signs of aging.

Add that to stress, hormonal changes, and environmental exposures, like makeup, smoke, and over-exposure to the sun. Your skin is going to be looser, thinner, and rougher. Leaving many left with more than they bargained for.

So, what treatments can we get that can help with facial volume loss?

Whether you’re struggling with sallow, sunken eye sockets, thinning lips, deflated” flattened cheeks, hollow temples, or loose sagging skin around the jawline, also known as jowls. Two main cosmetic remedies are using injectable fillers that will make a significant difference in the appearance of your face: Nano fat grafting and dermal fillers.

Well, to help me share these answers with you, I got with Dr. David Sieber Plastic Surgery in San Francisco. Let's see what he had to say on the subject.

Nano Fat Grafting vs. Dermal Fillers, Which Procedure Is Better To Help With Facial Volume Loss

If you’ve ever seen a plastic surgeon about the issue of facial volume loss, they have probably already listed both of these procedures as options. 

Still, you may have some follow-up questions — namely: What’s the difference between nano fat grafting and dermal fillers? What works better? What looks more natural? And which lasts longer?

Up ahead, we'll go over the basics of each one of these cosmetic procedures, followed by the major pros and cons, so that we can hopefully answer any questions you may still have about nano fat grafting and dermal fillers. By the end of this article, you’ll have a strong understanding of your options regarding loss of facial volume and will be able to make a sound decision moving forward.

Why Do We Lose Volume In Our Faces As We Age?
I touched briefly on this above. But let's see how Dr. David Sieber expands on this further.

Before we can examine the pros and cons of nano fat grafting vs. dermal fillers, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the aging process itself. Everyone knows our faces change as we age. But what’s actually going on beneath the skin?

For starters, when you’re young, you have mostly evenly distributed fat, and certain fat pockets nicely plump up all the right areas: the cheeks, forehead, lips, and temples and around the eyes. With gravity and time, however, small amounts of fat tend to shift downward. This causes bags to form beneath the eyes, jowls to form near the chin and neck, loose skin to gather at the bottom of the face, and fat to clump up in inconvenient locations.

The result is often a thin bony appearance, hollow-looking cheeks, and an overall tired and sullen look.

Fortunately, these signs of aging can be remedied with either nano fat grafting or dermal fillers.

The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Nano Fat Grafting Vs. Dermal Fillers

The skin rejuvenation process depends on many factors, but most healthy adults are good candidates for either nano fat grafting or dermal fillers. Let’s take a look at each of these facial fillers.

What Is Nano Fat Grafting?
The key to facial rejuvenation may already be hidden in your body with fat grafting (also known as fat transfer). This process can be performed on many parts of the body, including the breasts, buttocks, thighs, and more. It involves injecting fat (live) cells from one area of the body to another.

For example, if you have excess fat on your hips/thighs that you’d like to reduce, and you’d also like to increase the volume of your breasts, we can take fat from your hips (via liposuction), harvest, and process it, and move it to your breasts.

Nano fat grafting is very similar. The key difference between nano fat grafting and traditional fat grafting is the size of the grafts. With nano fat grafting, extremely small particle sizes are used. This is because smaller-sized fat particles are best at injecting into the face, repairing facial skin issues — namely, loss of volume, fine lines and wrinkles, and scarring.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is always some level of reabsorption when it comes to fat grafting. That is, not all of the transferred fat will survive; some will die, and your body will reabsorb it. This is totally normal, and your surgeon will anticipate this issue by slightly overshooting the amount of fat they transfer.

Using Your Own Fat For Facial Rejuvenation...Pros of Nano Fat Grafting For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• Uses your own fat-derived stem cells to rejuvenate and improve the overall tone, texture and appearance of aging or sun-damaged skin. Best for significant loss of volume on the face
• Usually less expensive than fillers
• Harvesting unwanted fat is a simple process (typically no shortage of fat supply for facial transfers)
• The area the fat is harvested from can appear slimmer and more contoured
• Long-lasting (usually lasts longer than dermal fillers)
• Bonus: They can even be used as alternatives to injectables like Botox to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles around the forehead and eyes
  

Cons Of Nano Fat Grafting For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• You will need to have the cosmetic surgery to remove the fat
• The fat-removal surgical procedure usually requires the use of an anesthetic
• Post-procedure swelling and bruising may last longer than with dermal fillers
  
• Long-lasting for those that may wanna test the waters so to speak

What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are chemical substances used to augment the face in some way. Usually, fillers are used to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and they can also be extremely effective at adding plumpness where volume has been lost due to aging or significant weight loss.

Most dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), but there are several different types that include such recognizable brands as Juvéderm, Restylane, and Sculptra.

HA is found naturally in the skin and is responsible for hydration and plumpness. Your cosmetic surgeon will decide which filler will work best for your problem areas and ultimate goals. Some fillers are constituted best for areas like the undereye, while others do better in the lips, along the jawline, or on the cheeks.

Unlike the process of fat grafting, dermal fillers do not require anesthesia because there’s no liposuction step. The process is quick and simple and this cosmetic procedure is usually done in as little as 30 minutes right in your plastic surgeon’s office.

Pros of Dermal Fillers For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• A cost-effective way to “test drive” facial rejuvenation methods
• Good for "small jobs” (adding volume to the lips, for example)
• Fillers add volume, smooth facial folds, improve contour deficiencies and diminish wrinkles.
• Particularly beneficial for contouring near the eyes — great for sunken, sullen eyes with dark circles
• No anesthetics are needed
• Recovery time is fast
  

Cons of Dermal Fillers For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• Not quite as long-lasting as fat grafting (the skin eventually absorbs fillers and will require additional fillers to maintain volume)
• Long term cost can be more expensive than the fat transfer process, as it has to be done more often
• Although fillers are considered safe, you are injecting a foreign substance into your body.  It is important to choose a skilled plastic surgeon to perform this procedure to ensure that it is done properly.
  

To Sum It Up...Nano Fat Grafting Vs. Dermal Fillers, Which Is Better?
There is not a definitive answer as the both treatments work great for facial rejuvenation. The goal in deciding is to look at the pros and cons of both and see which one better fits your lifestyle. 

More About San Francisco’s Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. David Sieber And His Practice
Dr. David Sieber is board-certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery, making him one of the few double board-certified plastics and reconstructive surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area.

After graduating from Loyola University-Stritch School of Medicine, Dr. Sieber went on to the Loyola University Medical Center to complete a five-year residency in general surgery. This was followed by a three-year residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Minnesota and a one-year aesthetic surgery fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern program in Dallas.

Among his many accolades, in 2015, Dr. Sieber received the award for best research paper from the Aesthetic Surgery Journal editorial board. He was the recipient of the inaugural Frederic Brandt, MD Memorial Scholarship. He currently serves on committees for the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF).

For more information about Dr. Sieber, visit his practice online at Dr. David Sieber Plastic Surgery in San Francisco.

References:

What Are Dermal Fillers
History Of Fat Grafting