Vivian Hernandez, MD, FACS

Frequently Asked Questions: Liquid Facelift

1. What is a Liquid Facelift?

The term Liquid Facelift applies to non-surgical rejuvenation of the face using

injectables, which may include dermal fillers, that add instant volume and a more

youthful and natural appearance to the face. Some of the fillers used include Juvederm®,

Voluma®, Restylane® and Radiesse®. The filler Sculptra® acts more like a volumizer

because it stimulates collagen production. Neuromodulators, such as Botox, Dysport

and Xeomin may also be used to eliminate or soften forehead and laugh lines.

2. What is achieved with a Liquid Facelift?

A Liquid Facelift solves various problems related to facial aging, such as volume loss,

and fine to severe lines and wrinkles. Age can also cause the appearance of sagging

jowls and sunken areas in the cheeks. Fillers can soften facial lines and wrinkles,

eliminate depressions and enhance the contour of the cheek and jaw area. Lips can also

be plumped to their youthful fullness and shape.

3. How long does a Liquid Facelift last?

The improvements from a Liquid Facelift may last from six months to two years

depending on the type of injectable used. Most dermal fillers such Juvederm, Voluma,

Restylane, and Radiesse give immediate results. Volumizers like Sculptra, a collagen

stimulator, give more gradual, longer lasting results.

4. How is a Liquid Facelift performed?

A Liquid Facelift is performed by injecting dermal fillers into multiple sites of the face to

replenish the lost volume and ultimately meet the needs of each individual patient. It is an

outpatient procedure that takes approximately from 15 to 30 minutes. A topical anesthetic

may be used for added comfort. Results are seen immediately.

5. How many treatments are needed?

Most fillers provide immediate results with just one treatment. Nevertheless, some

specific injectables require several treatments. Follow up treatments are often desirable

especially when a patient wishes additional enhancements or the improvements begin to

dissipate over time.

6. What kind of downtime is there with a Liquid Facelift?

There is no downtime with a Liquid Facelift. Patients may return to their normal routine

and activities the same day. Since some bruising and or swelling may occur it is a good

idea to schedule your Liquid Lifts treatment a few days before any important social event

that you may attend.

7. Is a Liquid Facelift the best alternative to a traditional surgical facelift?

A Liquid Facelift is a good alternative to a surgical facelift as it provides a minimally

invasive way to achieve a more natural and youthful appearance without surgery. There

is minimal downtime compared to a traditional facelift, no general anesthesia, no hospital

recovery, and the results with a Liquid Facelift are immediate. However a Surgical Face

Lift is preferable if you are a good candidate for surgery.

8. What are the most common risks?

Common risks with a Liquid Lift, similar to any injectable treatment, are minor discomfort,

swelling, and bruising. Less commonly, tiny bumps may appear under the skin with

Sculptra. Allergic reactions are rare. The circulation of the skin may be compromised if

the filler is injected into a vessel by error. These are good reasons to choose a competent

and experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is familiar with the full range of

product options and has the expertise to understand both the superficial and deep

anatomical facial structures.

9. Who is a good candidate for a Liquid facelift?

A good candidate for a Liquid Facelift is a person who has experienced some loss of

facial volume. They may see increased folds of the skin, as well as, lines and wrinkles,

and some sagging of the face causing jowling. Through the procedure of a Liquid Facelift,

you can eliminate some of these conditions and restore a more youthful, rested, and

radiant image. At the same time you will be reinvigorating your self-esteem and self-

confidence. Your physician will individualize a Liquid Lift according to your age and

desires.