How to Decide if a Non-surgical Facelift is for You
By Sherril Steele-Carlin
Does the thought of a surgeon's knife send you into hiding? Are those "laugh lines" becoming a little too conspicuous? If so, there are some uplifting techniques for helping you look your best while avoiding the surgeon's scalpel.
Non-surgical facelifts are quite popular these days because they offer plenty of options that won't strain your wallet but will make you look just like your favorite star. However, not all non-surgical centers are created equal, so get savvy before you go for it.
Who's Doing It?
Find out more about the center itself and the doctors who offer treatments before you sign on the dotted line. Today, many unlicensed and uncertified spas and centers offer non-surgical treatments, but often they are not certified by any board or professional organization. You won't get the results you're hoping for if you don't use a professionally trained and certified doctor or dermatologist. Stick with those centers that have doctors certified by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' (ASPS), or members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS).
What's your Best Bet?
Many types of non-surgical procedures are available today, and new techniques are being developed all the time. From Botox ® to Endomologie® and Thermage, chances are you can find a procedure will make you look younger, rejuvenated, and simply healthier and more radiant.
Thermage is a relatively new technique that was approved by the FDA a little over a year ago. It's like a facelift, but without the surgery involved. The treatment uses radio-frequency waves to stimulate collagen underneath the skin, which ultimately gives a lifting effect to the skin and face. Thermage treatments last up to 18 months, and the optimum candidate is someone who is beginning to show signs of aging.
Many people are familiar with chemical peels, another way to keep aging skin at bay. According to the ASDS, these procedures use a chemical solution to peel or "blister" the skin and peel off, leaving smoother skin with fewer wrinkles. However, it can also be more sensitive to the sun.
Another new technique is Endomologie. This is the first treatment to get clearance in America for cellulite applications. This treatment uses special patented therapeutic massagers along with unique massaging movements that massage many layers of the skin. Endomologie is used over the entire body, and it can be adapted to specific types of cellulite.
Many other facial treatments are available that are non-invasive, non-surgical, and will have you back on the streets in no time. Before you choose, it's a good idea to make sure your doctor does a thorough evaluation of your skin before you undergo any procedure.
