For a comprehensive understanding of the remarkable effects of a full-face rejuvenation involving neurotoxin and filler, let’s delve into the fascinating world of a “liquid facelift.” Referred to as a “liquid lift,” this innovative cosmetic procedure combines various injectable and filler products to create a smoother, fuller, and line-free complexion. To illustrate the transformative power of this technique, we’ll examine the case of Beth, who sought treatment from West Palm Beach, FL dermatologist Kenneth R. Beer, MD. “She has good skin, but adding a little volume to some of the areas where she’s a little hollow made a huge difference,” he said.
Featured Experts
- Kenneth R. Beer, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in West Palm Beach, FL
- Joel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Omaha, NE
- Daniel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Omaha, NE
What is a liquid facelift?
“Essentially, a ‘liquid facelift’ is the use of fillers to revolumize areas of the face that have lost volume over the years,” begins Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD. “As we age, our fat can shrink or totally disappear, only to be redistributed over other areas of our body such as the hips, thighs and abdomen. We also lose bone density in the face, just as we lose it in our spinal column and thighs. For many years, the mantra was to get a facelift, which tightened the skin, but often didn’t look natural. This led to the ‘overdone’ look that changed the appearance and looked somewhat odd.”
So, why can’t we just graft fat from our body into our face? As Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains, “While fat from other areas of the body can be liposuctioned and then injected in the facial area (called fat grafting), not all the fat cells survive equally, which can lead to variable or even asymmetric results that clearly are dependent upon total weight, and dieting and exercise—or changes from weight loss drugs like Ozempic—can lead to changes for the worse. For this reason, fillers such as Juvéderm, Restylane can replenish the lost fat. A ‘liquid facelift’ simply uses these to fill areas that are lacking.”
How long does a liquid facelift last?
While many patients would prefer a noninvasive solution to their facial insecurities, one of the main reasons people opt to make the plunge into plastic surgery is because the results tend to last longer. How long does a “liquid facelift ask?” As Omaha, NE dermatologist Daniel Schlessinger, MD explains, the duration of results are dependent on the type of filler used.
“I prefer the safety of fillers from the Juvéderm or Restylane family, but there are many fillers on the horizon that will be similarly safe and provide longer-lasting results,” says Dr. Daniel Schlessinger. “Generally, hyaluronic acid fillers last anywhere from six months to two years, but results can absolutely vary from individual to individual. I have patients who ‘chew up’ filler more quickly if they are runners or have a higher metabolism. Whatever the case, there is no doubt that the more filler is used—and the average ‘liquid facelift’ is anywhere from 6-18 syringes of filler)—the longer the results will last.”
What does a liquid facelift cost?
While the price of a “liquid facelift” will vary from provider to provider, Dr. Joel Schlessinger says that a “ballpark figure” for the procedure is anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000. While that may sound like a lot, it’s worth it, as Dr. Joel Schlessinger notes, “This is at the low end for the average price of a deep plane surgical facelift, which may range from $10,000 to $25,000 or even multiples of that depending on your area, and the benefits of the ‘liquid facelift’ include little or no downtime (bruising can occur and there are the standard risks of any filler) and a scarless, more natural, satisfying appearance than traditional plastic surgery.” However, it’s important to note that “liquid facelifts” offer temporary results.
Who is a good candidate for a liquid facelift?
Cosmetic treatments, whether surgical or nonsurgical, are never one size fits all. In terms of who fits the bill for a “liquid facelift,” Dr. Daniel Schlessinger tends to look for patients who have “lost cheek or chin volume over a period of several years, has reasonable expectations, aren’t opposed to needles and are preferably not on blood thinners, though that isn’t an absolute requirement. Oftentimes, I will compare a picture of these patients from 10-15 years earlier to visualize the best options for replenishment and then use that to explain the opportunities we have to improve their facial appearance.”
Liquid Facelift: Real Life Example
Dr. Beer’s goal for Beth was to rejuvenate her appearance by restoring fullness to her cheeks and temples while enhancing the definition of her nose and chin. Despite having excellent skin, Beth experienced slight hollowness in certain areas, and Dr. Beer believed that adding volume to these regions would make a significant difference.
A “liquid facelift” primarily relies on the strategic use of injectable dermal fillers. Among these, hyaluronic acid–based products like Juvéderm and Restylane are commonly employed. This noninvasive procedure is tailored to address common signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and the loss of facial volume. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver a more youthful and revitalized appearance without the necessity of surgery. The results are often immediately noticeable, and recovery time is minimal, rendering it a preferred choice for individuals seeking a more youthful look.
Dr. Beer’s approach to Beth’s transformation involved a meticulous analysis of her facial structure and the identification of areas that would benefit from enhancement. Through the strategic injection of fillers, he was able to smooth out wrinkles, add volume, and reshape her facial features. The result was a striking and rejuvenated appearance that effectively turned back the hands of time, instilling a renewed sense of youth and radiance.
Beth’s journey serves as a testament to the incredible potential of “liquid facelifts.” By skillfully harnessing the power of dermal fillers, these procedures have the capacity to breathe new life into one’s appearance, erasing the telltale signs of aging and unveiling a more youthful, refreshed, and confident version of themselves.
