Facelift vs. Liquid Facelift: Is Surgery Right for You?

facelift vs liquid facelift

In your pursuit to reverse the aging process, you may consider both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Dr. Joshua Greenwald, a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Harrison, Carmel and Manhattan, New York, enjoys guiding his patients through the process of deciding on treatments that feel right for them. If you can’t decide whether to choose traditional facelift or liquid facelift for your premature signs of aging, he offers this blog to help you make an informed decision.

Facelift

Facelift is a comprehensive procedure that addresses signs of aging on the neck and lower portion of the face. Dr. Greenwald customizes each surgery to meet the goals of the patient. Changes that he can achieve include minimizing lines and wrinkles, reducing jowls by removing deposits of fat along the jawline and tightening loose skin and visible neck bands for a smoother neck. When combined, these techniques create a younger appearance that avoids looking “pulled” or unnatural. 

Liquid Facelift

Liquid facelift is a non-invasive treatment that achieves many of the same benefits as surgical facelift, except with injectables rather than a scalpel. Dr. Greenwald strategically places injections of dermal filler and/or neurotoxins into the face to diminish wrinkles, restore volume to the cheeks, smooth out the contours of the neck and restore definition along the jawline. Through years of practice, he understands the precise amount and type of injectable (Botox, Juvederm, Radiesse or Restylane) that will best produce your desired results.

Weighing Your Options

The most obvious difference between facelift and liquid facelift is how long the results last. Understandably, surgery produces results that are more dramatic and remain visible for approximately one decade. On the other hand, transformations with injectables are usually subtler, with a duration of a few months to about one year. To maintain the results from liquid facelift, you need to periodically return for additional injections.

Another notable factor is the recovery. After surgical facelift, you need to devote a couple weeks to rest and relaxation, taking 10 to 14 days off from work while you heal. You can expect some discomfort, swelling and bruising during that period. In contrast, liquid facelift has no recovery period. As soon as your appointment is complete, you may walk out of Dr. Greenwald’s office and resume your normal work and social schedule.

Schedule a Consultation

After listening to your concerns and goals during a consultation, Dr. Greenwald can assist you in developing a treatment plan for facial rejuvenation that has you feeling both comfortable and satisfied. Whether you ultimately decide to take a surgical or non-surgical route, he can provide high-quality results with attentive care.

To meet with Dr. Greenwald in-person or virtually, please schedule a consultation at your soonest convenience.

Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.