Are Facelifts Dead? The Laser Skin Rejuvenation Alternative
A recent article in Harper’s Bazaar succinctly describes the benefits of facelift alternatives like laser skin rejuvenation:
“The idea of a facelift is dated. As my friend said, ‘Nobody is having facelifts anymore. There’s no need to.’ Interestingly, since having a combination of these new treatments, she has stopped having Botox as she feels she doesn’t need it. Her glowy skin, cheekbones and taut jawline were more than enough to make me call her skin doctor and book in.”
Facelift alternatives like laser skin rejuvenation take a less invasive approach to smoothing wrinkles, lines, and “crows feet” that are the natural effects of aging. These signs of aging are the result of our bodies not processing collagen as fast as we did when we were younger. Laser skin rejuvenation uses radiofrequency to trigger the body’s natural reaction to produce new collagen. This results in tighter skin fibers that have a beautiful and youthful look. It tightens the skin and reduces cellulite.
Essentially, the heat from the lasers creates a “fountain of youth” for our skin, helping us look younger and healthier without the risk of surgery or having to “go under the knife.”
“The brilliant thing about these new procedures is that you still look exactly like you — just fresher, smoother and more airbrushed,” Lucia Ferrari explains in Harpers. “Needle and knife-free, these treatments don’t add anything into the skin; they work more naturally (either stimulating a mega boost of our own collagen production or working on the facial muscles themselves). Also, they can all be done in a lunch hour (and with minimum downtime).”
What’s the Procedure Like?
Radio frequency treatments use handpieces that have been carefully designed to safely treat delicate areas, where skin has become thin during the natural aging process. The instruments gently and gradually increase skin temperature for a defined, therapeutic time. Our Cincinnati patients often liken the process to a relaxing hot stone massage. Gentle, soothing music can played during the treatment process, much like a meditative retreat or soothing yoga session. This medical procedure feels more like a therapeutic day at the spa than a clinical treatment.
The entire face can be done in 30 to 60 minutes. A specific area can be done in as little as 30 minutes. The collagen rebuilding process continues to work days, weeks and even months after the initial treatment. For best results, a series of treatments are recommended, usually about 4 to 5 treatments, each a month apart. Your doctor can recommend the best treatment plan.
Is It Safe?
Absolutely! Photorejuvenation is extremely safe and can be performed on all skin types.
Plus, there is no recovery time. You can return to normal living immediately after the procedure. Have a treatment done during your lunch hour and return to normal living as soon as you leave the parking lot.
Photorejuvenation is not recommended for pregnant women, people on certain wound healing medications, or those who have seizure disorders triggered by light. Ask your doctor if laser skin resurfacing is right for you.
