Facial Rejuvenation Files: Laser Resurfacing or Facelift Surgery?
Aging changes the skin in three distinct ways. These include volume loss, textural irregularities, and laxity. Historically, facial aging has been corrected with facelift surgery. More recently, though, a number of non-surgical techniques have been developed to smooth, lift, and tighten the skin. In our Main Line plastic surgery practice, we offer patients several options for facial rejuvenation, including facelift surgery and laser skin resurfacing. Here, we discuss aspects of each to help you recognize which approach may be right for your needs.
When Laser Resurfacing is a Good Choice
Laser skin resurfacing has evolved over the years. It is rare for a person to undergo fully ablative CO2 resurfacing these days. Fractionated techniques, in which a single laser beam is broken up into tiny pinpoints of energy, are less intense and require a shorter recovery period. Fractional laser resurfacing creates tiny channels in the superficial layers of dermal tissue. This invites an infusion of collagen to occur over time, progressively improving texture, tone, and firmness.
Laser skin resurfacing may be performed to correct:
- Hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage
- Scars
- Textural irregularities such as roughness
- Tissue laxity
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Dull skin tone
When Facelift Surgery is a Good Choice
A surgical facelift does involve anesthesia and incisions. However, these are not aspects that should exclude this technique as beneficial. To accommodate a surgical facelift, incisions are made near the hairline. A short incision may be made in front of each ear. During the procedure, small instruments are inserted through incisions to reposition deep muscle and fatty tissue. After structure is secured across the cheekbones, excess skin is trimmed and incisions are closed. A patient requires a week to two weeks of recovery for swelling and bruising to subside. After this time, light activities can be resumed.
The results of a surgical facelift are more dramatic than laser resurfacing because the surgical technique addresses the deep musculature of the face, resulting in changed structure. A facelift can:
- Sharpen the jawline by lifting jowls
- Restore volume to the cheeks
- Reduce or eliminate deep creases around the nose and mouth
The best way to know your ideal approach to facial rejuvenation is to consult with a board-certified physician. During a consultation in our Bryn Mawr office, you can explore numerous options including and beyond laser resurfacing and facelift surgery. Call 610.527.4833 to schedule your visit.
