BOTOX® VS Facelifts – Risks, Rewards, Results
By Dr. Corey Hartman
It’s not a stretch to say that the cosmetic industry is bigger today than at any time in the last century. Technological, chemical, and medical advancements have allowed the field to safely diversify and expand, offering consumers different options for achieving similar results. But with more options comes more deliberation about which procedure, method, or tech is best for you.
If you’ve noticed a sagging brow, deepening fine lines and wrinkles, or flattening lips, you might consider chemical peels or microneedling, hydrafacials or intense pulsed light therapy. But for the discerning consumer who demands the safest and longest lasting results, there are two options that stand out most: facelifts and BOTOX®.
Beyond the obvious and most telling difference—one procedure is an injectable, the other purely surgical—there are other concerns that separate these two popular options in America today. Let’s take a look at the pros, cons, and everything in between.
Price
For many of us, price is the first barrier when trying to decide between facelifts and BOTOX® injections. While price may not be our only concern, it’s certainly a significant aspect to consider when choosing the right option for you.
Facelifts
Starting with facelifts, the average price in the US today runs about $8,000. The operative word here is “average,” with some consumers paying more and others paying less than the $8,000 middleground.
Of course, when considering providers for elective surgeries, the price tag is bound to reflect certain safety measures and personnel expertise. Surgical procedures typically require several highly-trained professionals to complete effectively and safely, raising the price for good reason.
BOTOX®
As an injectable rather than a detailed surgery, BOTOX® injections are much more affordable on average than facelifts. Depending on the area being treated, BOTOX® can cost anywhere between $100 and $600 per injection. But as with surgical procedures, expertise matters with BOTOX® injections too.
A trained provider understands the muscular system in the face well enough to create the best and longest lasting results, maximizing the value of each injection that much more.
Results
With both options, the ultimate goal is to smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While the facelift works by tightening the skin along targeted incisions around the face, BOTOX® relaxes the muscles responsible for the development and significance of wrinkles.
Facelifts
No procedure lasts forever, no matter how surgically involved or drastic it may be. Facelifts are no exception, lasting on average for about 10 years with results diminishing naturally over that decade.
BOTOX®
Depending on the area being treated, the skill of your provider, and your own individual goals for your BOTOX® injection, the treatment can create enduring results for anywhere from 4-6 months. Patients typically return for follow-up treatments 2-3 times each year. BOTOX® injections can be completed during a lunch break, requiring only a few minutes to administer.
Rundown
To put things into perspective, here are some additional details about each procedure in an easy to reference format.
Facelifts
- $8,000 average price tag
- 10-year results
- Surgical in nature
- Mildly successful (natural vs. unnatural looking results)
- Requires anesthesia/incisions
- Results can’t be easily undone
BOTOX®
- $100-$600 average price tag
- 4-6 month results (or longer)
- Injectable in nature
- High track record of success (natural looking results)
- Requires a few minutes to complete
- Results are reversible
Verdict
No matter how passionately you feel about facial rejuvenation procedures, surgery may be a step too far. Every surgery (lifesaving or elective) carries significant risks. The results may look unnatural, and the recovery period may be extensive and painful. While facelifts may last nearly a decade, the results (if undesired) cannot be easily reversed, leaving patients with little recourse after the fact.
BOTOX®, meanwhile, requires only minutes to complete, lasts up to half a year or longer, and won’t create permanent issues if you dislike your results. BOTOX® is also affordable and sustainable. So, before committing to more drastic and severe surgical measures, it may be wise to try out a BOTOX® appointment at Skin Wellness Dermatology.
Call Skin Wellness for a BOTOX® consultation today!
If you’re not quite convinced by the costs, results, or serious risks of facelifts, but still want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, consider BOTOX® instead. Skin Wellness has the experience to administer BOTOX® safely and for maximum effect throughout the Birmingham, AL area. To learn more or schedule your consultation on a lunch hour, visit us online or call us today at 205-871-7332.