Combat Aging: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Options

Pursuing a more youthful appearance is a common desire among many individuals as they combat aging. While various options are available to achieve a rejuvenated look, deciding between surgical and non-surgical methods can be daunting. In this blog, we will compare surgical procedures, such as facelifts, and non-surgical alternatives, like Dysport and fillers.

Clarifying the differences and similarities between these options can help you make an informed decision about your cosmetic goals.

Surgical Facelifts

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, involves the removal of excess skin, tightening underlying facial muscles, and repositioning the skin surgically to achieve a more youthful appearance. Facelifts are typically performed by board-certified plastic surgeons and provide long-lasting results.

Pros of Surgical Facelifts:

Dramatic and long-lasting results: A facelift can provide significant improvements in sagging skin, wrinkles, and facial contours, with results that can last for several years.

Comprehensive rejuvenation: It addresses multiple signs of aging, including loose skin, jowls, and deep wrinkles.

Precision: Surgeons can tailor the procedure to meet the patient’s needs, ensuring a natural and customized outcome.

Cons of Surgical Facelifts:

Invasive: Facelifts involve anesthesia, incisions, and a more extended recovery than non-surgical options.

Risk of complications: All surgical procedures have inherent risks, such as infection, scarring, and anesthesia-related complications.

Downtime: Recovery can take several weeks, and patients may experience swelling and bruising.

Non-Surgical Options: Dysport

Dysport is a prescription medication. Similar to Botox, it contains botulinum toxin type A. Dysport works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles, typically in the upper face, such as forehead lines and crow’s feet.

Pros of Dysport:

Quick and virtually painless: Dysport injections are minimally invasive and require no downtime.

Temporary but effective: Results are noticeable within a few days and can last several months.

Versatile: Dysport can be used for preventive and corrective anti-aging purposes to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Cons of Dysport:

Temporary results: Dysport’s effects wear off over time, necessitating regular maintenance treatments.

Limited application: It primarily targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement and may not address all signs of aging.

Non-Surgical Options: Fillers

Dermal fillers at Hess, Sandeen, and Lee consist of fat transfers, collagen, and others that contain hyaluronic acid. These injectable treatments add volume to specific face areas, such as the lips, cheeks, and nasolabial folds.

Pros of Fillers:

Immediate results: The effects of fillers are noticeable immediately after treatment.

Minimal downtime: Patients can resume their regular activities shortly after the procedure.

Versatility: Fillers can address various concerns, including volume loss and fine lines

Fill and replenish: Fillers containing hyaluronic acid increase plumpness and can replenish your body’s natural production, which decreases as you age.

Cons of Fillers:

Temporary: Like Dysport, fillers provide temporary results that require maintenance treatments.

Risk of side effects: While rare, side effects can include swelling, bruising, and lumps if not administered correctly.

Our Tucson board-certified surgeons at Hess, Sandeen & Lee are here for you.

Regardless of the option you choose, our patient-centered approach prioritizes safety first. We analyze factors such as your individual goals, preferences, and tolerance for downtime to help us determine which surgical or non-surgical approach is the best to achieve your desired results.