While one plastic surgery procedure is good, recent success with innovative facial rejuvenation techniques proves that aesthetic synergy can be produced when cosmetic procedures are combined. Plastic surgeons have discovered that a combination of a facelift, dermal fillers or fat grafting for mid-face volumization, and laser resurfacing can be safely performed in tandem to achieve dramatic anti-aging results. Recent studies allay concerns of plastic surgeons regarding the risk of complications when performing simultaneous procedures, and assure patients looking to combine procedures of the safety and efficacy of the process.
1. Facelift
A facelift is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens sagging skin while eliminating deep wrinkles and facial creases. The procedure is particularly effective for the lower face and neck, where sagging skin can create the look of “jowling” and significant wrinkling. However, some patients may experience an unnatural tightening in the mid-face area after this procedure, due to volume loss that can result in a flattened look. Dr. Andrews uses advanced techniques to prevent a unnatural appearance, by tightening skin along with the deeper tissues and facial muscles.
2. Voluma Injections or Fat Transfer
Mid-face volumization (restoring lost volume), particularly in the cheek, can restore some of the youthful volume lost during the aging process. By combining volumization with a facelift procedure, we can often achieve a more natural appearance by enhancing your youthful contours. Volumization of the mid-face can be achieved in two ways. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Voluma are less invasive and only require a few injections to reduce wrinkles and restore volume in the mid-face, contouring the cheeks and jawline. Results typically last 12-24 months. For longer-lasting results, patients can consider a surgical fat transfer procedure. The fat transfer is a two-step procedure that involves liposuction to remove excess fat from areas like the thighs, stomach, or buttock. Next, fat injections are performed to transfer the harvested fat cells into the treated area to restore volume.
3. Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that targets superficial cocnerns like irregular skin texture and tone caused by natural aging, sun exposure, and other factors. Various types of laser skin resurfacing work differently to target various levels of skin conditions. Ablative lasers remove the outer layer of skin, revealing softer, smoother new skin once the outer layer regenerates. Non-ablative lasers of intense-pulsed light technologies use concentrated pulsating beams of laser or light energy to target the underlying skin, heating the deep tissues and stimulating collagen production. Treated skin on the outer layers is not removed, offering a shorter recovery time. Laser treatment effectively minimizes the appearance of fine lines, sun damaged skin, age spots, acne scars, and other superficial concerns. The procedure can be tailored to specific concerns, with lighter treatments resulting in shorter recovery periods.
Who is a Candidate for This Procedure?
Combination procedures can be a great option for patients experiencing moderate to severe signs of aging. To ensure this treatment will be safe and can effectively meet your goals, Dr. Andrews will start with a consultation to review your medical history to make sure you are in good health, examine your facial anatomy, and discuss your concerns in detail. Before surgery or minimally invasive procedures, patients must avoid blood thinners and certain medications that could affect the healing process. Patients should have realistic expectations for both their procedure and recovery period. General anesthesia is required for facelift surgery, and patients should prepare to rest at home for up to two weeks after their procedure.
What Results Can I Expect?
When all three procedures are performed simultaneously, patients enjoy significant anti-aging results and a refreshed appearance. It’s important to be aware that results can take several weeks to develop, as swelling and bruising improve. Laser procedure also stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers to rejuvenate youthful skin, and collagen production is a gradual process. However once your results are developed, they can last for a number of years, making this a good investment of time and money for patients looking for an efficient way to address a number of skin concerns at one time. Dr. Andrews prioritizes natural-looking results to rejuvenate a more youthful appearance that enhances your natural features.
Schedule a Consultation
If you want to rejuvenate a more youthful appearance with long-lasting results, this combination procedure might be perfect for you! To learn more about these procedures and other options for cosmetic surgery in Coralsville, IA, contact Dr. Andrews or his staff at Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery: 319-220-4644.
