Plastic surgery is ALL about TRADE-OFFS. We trade smoothness for scars. Perky breasts for scars and full breasts for all the potential complications associated with having breast implants.
The term "alternative" implies that one can choose between EQUALLY effective choices to reach the same goal. But, that is usually not the case.
Every operation has a predictable goal and purpose. Unfortunately, the greater and loftier the cosmetic goal, the more involved the operation and the greater the potential inseparable associated surgical risks.
If someone has "sagging jowls and loose neck skin" and wants them smoothed away, a Facelift has to be performed. There is NO EQUIVALENT EFFECTIVE substitute to a properly done Facelift.
However - in exchange for lowering your expectations, you could compromise by picking a less invasive procedure (IE "Liquid Facelift" -using a lot of Botox and fillers instead ). In such cases, you will not get as good a result BUT will not take as much of a risk either.
Good Luck.
Peter A Aldea, MD
