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A Surgery-Free Facelift: The Basics Of Non-Surgical Skin Tightening

Long gone are the days where your only option for skin tightening was a bunch of different face creams or invasive surgery.

In today’s technological age there are a number of groundbreaking techniques available for skin tightening. And none of them involve scalpels or scars.

If you’re looking for a skin tightening solution, here’s everything you need to know about the technology and the procedure.

The Non-Surgical Benefits of Skin Tightening Treatment

Non-surgical skin tightening has become extremely popular over the past few years. This is because of the proven results in correcting skin laxity and skin quality issues with little to no down-time.

Here are just a few reasons you should consider non-surgical skin tightening therapy:

  • This therapy tightens mild to moderately loose skin without the effects of surgery
  • The treatment also provides a noticeable lifting effect on the face
  • There is little to no downtime in terms of recovery
  • The treatment is considered low risk, with little to no adverse side effects
  • Treatments are performed in the surgeon’s office and last no more than one hour at a time
  • Results can last up to one year or more

But how do you know if you’re a good candidate for this type of procedure and you’ll get the results you’re looking for?

Who is a Good Candidate For Skin Tightening?

It’s important to bear in mind that certain factors make for a better result when it comes to non-surgical skin tightening.

For example, if you have mild to moderate skin laxity on your face, neck, arms, or abdomen, you’d be ideal. If you have minimal skin laxity but want to be pro-active about your skincare, this is a good treatment for you.

If you’ve had a previous facelift or any surgical procedure, skin tightening therapy is a good way to prolong these results and improve skin quality. Likewise, if you have residual skin laxity after an operation, weight loss or pregnancy, you’re a good candidate for this treatment.

And finally, if you’re simply unable or unwilling to undergo invasive surgery for skin tightening, this non-surgical option is your best bet.

How is Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Performed?

Depending on the surgeon you choose, the treatment procedure may differ. It also depends on your skin quality and the area being treated.

Generally, there are three different types of technology that are used in skin tightening therapies:

1. Radiofrequency Therapy 

Radiofrequency devices are used to penetrate deep into the tissue underneath the skin, heating the area, and stimulating collagen production. Over time, this encourages the skin to tighten and smooth out in the treated area.

A specially designed treatment tip is pressed against the skin. You’ll feel gentle vibrations, cooling, and heating sensations with each pulse. Depending on the device, your skin may be cooled for comfort and safety before and after the treatment.

2. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy

During this treatment, intense pulsed light is used to heat the area and penetrate deep into the dermis – the deepest layer of your skin. IPL therapy is also used to treat dyschromia, red and brown skin discoloration.

IPL treatment requires a number of visitations in order to see proven results.

3. Ultrasound Therapy 

During ultrasound therapy, a handpiece is placed on the skin and scans the area before treatment in order to identify underlying structures.

From here, small thermal bursts are used to stimulate deep structural support layers. This way, the surface of the skin is not damaged, but structures underneath it are stimulated.

You’ll need to have multiple sessions at varying skin depths in order to see real results.

What to Expect From Your Treatment Plan

Before your therapy begins, you’ll have an initial consultation with your surgeon. Here you’ll discuss your goals in terms of skin tightening and the areas you’d like to have treated.

Your surgeon will evaluate you as a candidate and be open and honest with as to whether skin tightening would work for you. During your initial consultation, the surgeon will go over your entire medical history. This includes previous surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, medications, skincare regime and more.

If you’re a good candidate for this procedure, a treatment plan is then drawn up. This is generally based around your goals, available technology, costs, and any associated risks.

What to Expect From Aftercare and Recovery

As mentioned, non-surgical skin tightening therapies require minimal amounts of downtime and recovery. Usually, you can head back to your everyday life immediately after each treatment.

If not, your surgeon will openly discuss any restrictions on your activity level. You should also receive a thorough briefing on normal post-treatment symptoms and signs of complications.

Some common post-treatment symptoms include:

  • A little pain immediately after the treatment as the anesthesia wears off, if it was used
  • You may experience temporary skin redness, swelling, or numbness in certain treatment areas

Bear in mind that your ”recovery” period could last anywhere from two-six months as this is how long results can take to unfold. This is because creating new collagen takes time. Your results will become more evident as time passes and your collagen supply is built up over this period.

How Long-Lasting Are The Results?

On average, the results of non-surgical skin tightening therapies can last anywhere from one to three years. Follow-up procedures may need to be scheduled in order to best maintain your results.

Remember that it’s super important to follow your surgeon’s post-treatment instructions and commit to the follow-up evaluations, as prescribed. If you notice any major changes in the skin that’s been treated, make a point of calling your surgeon and letting them know.

Get The Results You're Looking For With Pure Aesthetics

At Pure Aesthetics, we offer a range of treatments to help you find the best possible results. Whether it’s for skin tightening, fine lines, cellulite reduction, or laser hair removal, we are your beauty experts.

Visit our offices in Gainsville, Florida, for a consultation about the best treatment options for you. Otherwise, don’t hesitate to get in touch for more.

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Outer beauty attracts, but inner beauty captivates.— Kate Angell