What is the difference between a face lift and facial rejuvenation?

As stated, facelift is a surgical procedure while facial rejuvenation is really a concept of attaining and maintaining a youthful appearance. It incorporates skin care, surgical and non-surgical options. I like to tell patients that a facelift will restore the architecture by elevating the sagging tissues and tightening the loose skin, but it alone does not slow down the aging process. That is accomplished with the other treatment options to improve your skin texture, complexion, and improve collagen production.

The definition of facial rejuvenation varies from surgeon to
surgeon and means different things to different patients. In general it is the
process to try to reverse the facial appearance caused by aging, whether through non-surgical or surgical procedures like a facelift. It may involve
improving the skin texture and complexion, diminishing skin discoloration, minimizing
fine lines and wrinkles, contouring hollows, or tightening loose tissue that
has lost its elasticity.The variety of non-surgical and
surgical techniques which can be utilized to achieve these various goals of cosmetic improvement include: Fillers, Botox
or Dysport, micro-fat grafts, chemical peels, a supervised skin care program, IPL, lasers, skin tightening,
and surgical lifts of the eyes, neck and face. Each has advantages and disadvantages as well as limitations of
what they can achieve. The best technique or combination of procedures depends
on desired outcome, individual anatomy, underlying medical health, and extent
of aging. There is no one approach that is ideal for everyone, nor are there any "non-surgical facelifts", in spite of many marketing claims.I would suggest you find a plastic surgeon certified by
the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American
Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that you trust and are
comfortable with who has all of the modalities of treatment available. By being able to use any of the techniques, the plastic surgeon together with input from the patient can opt for the most optimal procedure rather than trying to fit the patient into a less desirable treatment because that is all the practitioner has available.You
should discuss your concerns with that plastic surgeon in person. Facial rejuvenation needs to be individualized. What
would be an ideal approach for one patient is not necessarily the same for
someone else. Based on the examination and discussion at the consultation, you
should have a better understanding of the various options that can achieve the
best cosmetic result for you.Robert Singer, MD FACSLa Jolla, California