Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging? (photos)

Question

I just turned 43 and the lower half of my face is really starting to sag due to weight fluctuation and age. Would Silhouette Instalift done by an accredited plastic surgeon give a good correction or do I need a facelift? If I get a facelift or mini-lift now, will that impact my ability to get a full facelift later? P.s I've already tried filler and am afraid that ultherapy and FaceTite will melt fat so I'd rather avoid those options.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concerns and you are exploring two reasonable options for your particular case. Silhouette Instalift is essentially a thread lift and while it is a nice bridge between Fillers and mini facelift, it is a temporary solution, as results last only 6 to 12 months(thread manufacturers claim longer results, don’t believe it). However this option offers a shorter recovery time.
Mini facelift offers much longer lasting more noticeable results, however a short recovery time after this surgery is needed. My favorite technique is the MACS short scar Mini-Facelift. Developed in Europe, it is the ideal approach for the younger patient, not ready for a full facelift, or patients who desire a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time. It can last as long as 8 to 10 years and has no bearing on a full facelift at a later date.
I agree with your concerns regarding Ultherapy and FaceTite as results are minimal at best. Be certain to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Choosing the right procedure will depend on your specific goals. While the Silhouette InstaLift can treat sagging skin in your lower face, it only provides temporary improvement that lasts about one year. A facelift is not only more long-lasting, but it can produce more dramatic results too. 
As for the question regarding if a mini lift now will prevent you from having a lift later in life or affect its results, the answer is no. Especially when performed by a skilled and experienced facial plastic surgeon, having a revision lift later on should be possible. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with a reputable, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Your surgeon can do a proper evaluation of your skin and facial profile, recommend the best approach to achieve your desired goals, and ensure the best possible results.

Dominick Gadaleta, MD · Answer

Hello PAGirl,
Thanks for your question and sharing your photos.Although it's hard to tell exactly what's going on with just two photos, I can certainly see what's bothering you.
You are in your early stages of aging and your mid- and lower face is starting to succumb to gravitation forces. The question you are asking is a typical question that I get asked in my clinic on a weekly basis. I think it's great that you are doing your research and trying to make the best informed decision for yourself.
Although I do think there are people who benefit from instalifts and other thread lift, I don't think it provides a great or long lasting outcome for the expense. If you are willing to undergo surgery, both from a cost and recovery standpoint, I truly believe you will be more satisfied with your results. As for the question regarding if a lift now will preclude you from having a lift later in life, absolutely not. Revision lifts are common in my practice and are often performed 15-20 years after the initial lift depending on the patient. 
You are right with your concern regarding Ulthera and facetite. These procedures are best for people unwilling or unable to go through surgery. They do damage the soft tissues of the face and neck and make facelifting surgery more difficult due to the scarring that they leave behind.I hope this helps with your decision!
All the best,
Dr. Dominick GadaletaFacial Plastic SurgeonPalo Alto, CA

Kerem Sami Kaya, MD · Answer

I think that thread lifts, one of the face rejuvenation application, has a limited area of use and does not have a long-term effect. Deep plan face lift has a the long-term effect and it is the best method to solve the symptoms that occur in the middle and lower face with aging. The effect of classical face lift techniques on the face is limited. More photos or inspection are needed to decide which one is best for you.Have a nice day.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Only a mii FL w SMAS can offer semi 5 year permanent results. Do not waste $$ on InstaLift! Expect fees in $8,000 ranges.

Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging? (photos)

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Answer: Early Facelift

Answer: Early Facelift

Answer: Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging?

Answer: Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging?

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Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Early Facelift

Answer: Early Facelift

Answer: Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging?

Answer: Early Facelift or Silhouette Instalift - which would be best for lower face sagging?

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.