Is There a Non Surgical Face Lift That Works?

"Non-surgical facelift" is a bad term--it should be called "Non-surgical facial rejuvenation." There are a number of different approaches:

1. Energy transfer. In this case, energy of some type (radiofrequency, infrared, etc) is used to 'heat' the deeper facial tissues and ostensibly cause tightening of the face. The first and most 'famous' was the Thermage system but several others exist. Most reputable studies have shown that these systems (at least in their initial incarnations--newer systems come out all the time) are mildly effective in about 30% of people. That means, minimal to no effect in about 2/3. It probably has it's place in some cases, but is not by any means a 'nonsurgical facelift'.

2. Volume replacement. In this case, fillers or fat are used to restore and reshape facial volume to give a more youthful look. This, too, is not a replacement for facelift, as it does not do the same things. However, as our knowledge of aging continues to evolve, we know that some volume replacement is a good thing.

3. Resurfacing procedures. These have been around for a while, and consist of the various types of 'peels'. With newer fractionated lasers and other technologies, downtime and side effects (bleaching, etc) are decreased. Again, though, this treats the face superficially and does not tighten deeper tissues that have 'sagged' nor does it restore volume.

These major categories of procedures can be used in combination to good effect in the right patient. The results are simply not the same, as they correct different issues. An experienced surgeon can help determine if any of these are right for you. Not everyone is ready or appropriate for a facelift, and the same goes for these.

I hope this helps.

Thank you for your question regarding non-surgical face lifts. There are many different techniques on the market today that offer some lifting, tightening, and contouring of the face.  Since you are in your early 50's it is impossible to evaluate without photos and knowing the elasticity of your skin which, if any, of these techniques might be of benefit to you. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience and expertise in facial aesthetics will be a good place for you to start. In our office we offer Ultherapy, which is an ultrasonic, non-invasive method of lifting and tightening the skin, but full results are not realized immediately but after around 3 months.  Most of my patients are very satisifed with their results, but they will not be the same as with a surgical facelift.  For our Ultherapy patients we also offer complimentary Radiesse, Botox, Belotero or Juvederm to help fill in lines and create volume and contour in the face.  You should also know that a MACS lift, which is my number one choice for most of my facelift patients, offers minimal downtime with excellent results.  I hope this helps. 

FaceTite can internally tighten the skin in the lower face and neck. After all the skin has been heated and contracted, we shape the neck with liposuction to give definition and remove stubborn pockets of fat. In one quick treatment, we can tighten skin, remove fat, and contour the lower face, jawline, and jowls with only a weekend of downtime. Keep in mind that combination approaches will give you a more significant improvement as opposed to a single procedure. I recommend getting a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer