"Liquid facelift" is a term generally used to describe combined use of botulinum toxin (only BotoxTM & DysportTM are both legally registered brands in Malaysia) together with fillers (many brands available in Malaysia) to achieve a more youthful, relaxed & aesthetically pleasing face shape. It doesn't deliver anti-gravity results like a surgical facelift but they are excellent methods of accomplishing rapid, minimal down time corrections with relatively low risk.
Who will benefit most from this procedure?
Men or women in their mid-30's up to age 60 who are beginning to notice a loss of facial volume, lines, wrinkles & folds. Ideally they should be non-smokers who have realistic expectations. If one already has excessive loose skin or has too much droopy facial fat, then a surgical facelift should be the procedure of choice.
Is it painful? How long does it take? What is the downtime?
Complete anaesthesia can be achieved with a topical cream +/- nerve blocks. The whole procedure usually takes about 1 hour. You might experience mild swelling & pink skin for a few hours. You will be OK to go back to work the next day with makeup. The may be slight bruising which can last about 1 week - easily concealed with makeup.
How long do the effects last?
The botulinum toxin effects generally last 3-6 months depending on dose injected, location, muscle activity, etc. The filler effect can last anything from 3-18 months depending on product used & technique of injection. The results continue to improve over the next 3 months as the filler absorbs fluids & the body builds more collagen around the filler.
Does it matter which brand of product is used?
For botulinum toxin, there is generally not much difference between Botox or Dysport brand.
As for fillers, it does matter very much. I prefer temporary fillers like hyaluronic acid (HA). Permanent fillers are just that - it resides permanently under the skin & will stay despite changes in face shape with age.
Can I combine this with other lasers & peels?
Yes, but it is recommended to wait at least 1 month before embarking on other procedures.
How does it compare with other "nonsurgical facelift" procedures like radiofrequency & threadlift?
Radiofrequency devices like Thermacool are more expensive & doesn't improve skin hydration or restore lost volume like HA fillers do. Results also take >3 months to become apparent whereas you do see an instant improvement with filler volume restoration & line filling. Results with botulinum toxin are apparent within 48-72 hours.
Threadlift does deliver immediate lifting but it does not improve skin hydration, texture or increased volume. How long it lasts is very much technique dependent.
