31 Jul Minimally invasive vs. facelift
In the field of aesthetic medicine, a trend towards minimally invasive treatments has been emerging for years. Botulinum toxin and filler treatments in particular are on the rise. But ultrasound, radio frequency, peelings and laser treatments have also taken their place among the top treatments. But how good are the minimally invasive methods and what are their limitations? When is a facelift the right choice? And what about the risks of surgery? You can read the answers in the following interview with Dr. Frank Muggenthaler on the subject of minimally invasive versus facelift surgery.
Dr. Muggenthaler, minimally invasive methods are very much in vogue. Why?
This is correct and completely understandable, as minimally invasive procedures usually promise quick results, shorter downtimes and, if used correctly, natural and good results. Last but not least, the lower costs compared to operational measures also play a role.
Are minimally invasive methods now replacing traditional cosmetic surgery?
Minimally invasive methods are a valuable addition to plastic surgery. In my opinion, every aesthetic plastic surgeon should be familiar with these methods. This is because it usually makes sense to combine different procedures in order to achieve optimum results.
For example?
For example, laser therapies, peelings or a retinol treatment can be combined very well with a facelift. In addition to a face lift, pigmentation disorders, enlarged pores or wrinkles can also be treated. However, LED applications or a HydraFacial® can also help to regenerate the skin after surgical procedures and maintain skin health in the long term. We therefore pursue a holistic treatment concept in our practice – always with the aim of achieving a natural and lasting improvement in appearance.
What are the limits of minimally invasive methods?
If the facial structures are severely sagging and there is excess skin, a minimally invasive procedure will no longer achieve the desired result. With a facelift, on the other hand, we achieve a significant tightening and harmonization of the face/neck area and a rejuvenation of 8 to 10 years.
The same applies to drooping eyelids (drooping eyelids). Thanks to our procedure(the modified subcutaneous brow lift), it is possible to lift the brows to almost any desired position through very short and later virtually invisible incisions at the hairline, even under local anesthesia. The result is particularly natural and long-lasting. In addition, wrinkles are often treated with laser or peelings.
What is the risk associated with a facelift?
As with any operation, a small residual risk remains with a facelift. However, this is very low if the surgeon has the necessary experience and expertise. Anesthesia is just as important. Together with our experienced anesthesia team, we have developed a sophisticated concept for twilight sedation. This allows us to perform the facelift without general anesthesia. Twilight sedation has a whole range of medical advantages: we can largely eliminate the risk of thrombosis and embolism. In addition, facial expressions can be better controlled during the procedure, making it much easier to prevent damage to the facial nerves.
Back to the minimally invasive methods. How will things develop over the next few years?
New devices come onto the market every day and the methods of aesthetic treatments are constantly being developed and improved. This will also be the case in the coming years. Personally, I am always open to new things, but at the same time I am also critical and questioning. The basic rule is: not everything that is advertised in the media and at trade fairs as a trend in aesthetic medicine is also a promising method.
I consider it all the more important to separate the wheat from the chaff, especially because of the many treatment options available. To perfect and further develop proven methods through continuous further training, without ignoring new innovations. Last but not least, a plastic surgeon must listen carefully to the patient, take their needs and expectations into account and create a coherent treatment concept. This also includes taking into account the latest anatomical findings.
More exciting articles:
Skin rejuvenation with a WOW effect – from non-invasive to surgical
Neck rejuvenation and neck lift: the top treatments from non-invasive to surgical
The brow lift
