What is a non-surgical facelift?

 

A non-surgical facelift is otherwise known as an 8-point facelift. It is performed at the Urban Aesthetix Clinic, using HA (hyaluronic acid) fillers as a non-invasive alternative to undergoing surgery, to target specific areas to lift and rejuvenate the face.

 

The 8-point lift was developed by plastic surgeon Dr Mauricio de Maio using HA fillers to replenish volume under the skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles for a naturally refreshed and more youthful-looking appearance.

 

The hyaluronic acid used, which naturally occurs in our skin, comes from a non-animal source. Hyaluronic acid is vital for the skin’s general moisture and helping maintain its elasticity, tone and appearance. HA facial fillers are therefore biocompatible and biodegradable; they are clinically approved and have been safely used for years worldwide.

 

With the 8-point facelift, the whole face is considered carefully in order to restore structure and volume for a youthful appearance though completely natural-looking results.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why consider a non-surgical facelift?

In the 8-point facelift, HA fillers are used to temporarily improve facial contours and volumise the face in key areas:

 

  • Cheekbones: to enhance cheekbone definition to regain a flattering curve
  • Cheek fat pads (Malar fat pads): to volumise the fat pad and lift the cheeks
  • Sagging jawline (Pre-jowl sulcus): to volumise the cavity at the side of the chin.
  • Tear troughs: to eliminate lower eyelid dark circles and dark eye
  • Nasolabial lines: to treat smile lines and deep creases running from the nose to the mouth that can make you look older than you really are
  • Mouth corners/ oral commissures/marionette lines: to treat ageing folds running down from the mouth angle

What does the 8-point facelift treatment involve?

Treatment is simple and safe if carried out by Dr Unnati, who is an experienced and fully qualified clinician, following a detailed consultation to examine the areas to treat and decide on the best HA filler for you.

 

Before carrying out the treatment, Dr Unnati may administer a topical local anaesthetic cream or anaesthetic injection (nerve block) for a comfortable and pain free treatment. Some HA fillers have a built-in anaesthetic.

 

A small amount of hyaluronic acid filler is injected in 8 separate points using a needle or a blunt cannula to create a lifting effect and give your face a fuller, more youthful appearance. The 8-point facelift may also be combined with PRP in a Vampire Facelift®.

 

The treatment can take 30 – 45 minutes and you can resume most normal daily activities immediately afterwards.

How soon should you notice a difference?

Results are noticeable immediately.

How long does a non-surgical facelift last?

An 8-point facelift will last between 12 – 24 months depending on which HA filler is used. Dr Unnati will advise you at your consultation.

 

The length of time also depends on a number of factors such as your age, smoking status, sun exposure, lifestyle and your general skin structure.

Are there any side effects to HA fillers?

The short-lived side effects associated with the injection process include bleeding, swelling, tenderness and redness which settle within a few hours, and bruising which settles within a few days. If the lips have been treated, the swelling can be significant and may take several days to settle.

 

There is a minimal risk of infection as the needle breaks the natural barrier to infection when creating a small wound in the skin. Please therefore avoid touching the area or using any unsterile make-up for 6 hours after treatment, although mineral make-up or sterile medical make-up can be used immediately. You may experience some itching and discolouration at the site of treatment which should settle within a few days.

 

Rarer complications include the formation of a small cyst, granuloma or nodule in the treated area which is generally due to an immunological reaction, and will either eventually settle spontaneously after a prolonged period or may require treatment. Extremely rare complications include interruption to the blood supply, which can result in longterm complications.

 

If you’re an overseas patient, advance booking is highly recommended in case a course of treatments is required.

When should HA fillers not be used/be used with caution?

  • While pregnant or breast feeding
  • If you are highly sensitive/ allergic to ingredients in the compound
  • After recent use with Roaccutane in the last 12 months
  • After treatment with permanent fillers or implants
  • If you have a tendency to keloid or hypertrophic scarring
  • With certain medical conditions: auto-immune disorders/ skin cancer/ angina/diabetes/ epilepsy/ hepatitis/Immunocompromised conditions/bleeding disorders
  • In combination with certain medications: anticoagulants/aspirin/anti-inflammatories/ steroids
  • If the areas to be treated are inflamed or infected

Points to consider

Any clinical procedure carries a risk of complications, which is why it is always highly advisable to have cosmetic treatments safely performed by a doctor. Dr Unnati is a GP and specialist Non-Surgical Aesthetic Physician, trained in dermatology and medical cosmetics.

 

The Urban Aesthetix Clinic follows strict guidelines in making patients fully aware of any possible cautions and complications, and in offering post treatment advice. Dr Unnati will undertake a full consultation before any new treatment can be given.