Jeffrey Kenkel, M.D. Answers Questions On: Laser or Facial Rejuvenation

Laser or facial rejuvenation refers to surgical and nonsurgical options that can improve the appearance and texture of facial skin. One or more procedures can be combined with a face lift to help give you a naturally refreshed, more youthful appearance, addressing issues such as:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sagging skin
• Sun damage
• Uneven skin tone

Procedures include:

• Injectables such as Botox® cosmetic and dermal fillers
• Laser resurfacing, using either fractional or full-field lasers to improve the quality of the skin
• Fat transfer, which uses unwanted fat from one area of your body (removed via liposuction) to augment, fill, or soften another area of your body
• Brow lift, for a more alert and open appearance
• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), to help smooth away wrinkles, lift sagging or drooping skin, or remove “bags” under the eyes
• Lip lift, to help add definition and fullness to the upper lip

It depends. The “best” procedure is the one that gives you the improvements you want with an acceptable amount of downtime.

Since individual concerns vary, each treatment plan is different. However, one or more of the following options is common:

• Injectables such as Botox® cosmetic and dermal fillers
• IPL/BBL photorejuvenation, which delivers a broad spectrum of light that penetrates multiple skin layers, targeting pigment and vascular imperfections
• Laser skin resurfacing
• Nonsurgical skin tightening treatments such as FaceTite and Morpheus8
• Chemical peels

I approach facial rejuvenation by marrying the goals and priorities with the patient’s tolerance for downtime. During your consultation, I’ll explain the pros and cons of appropriate surgical and nonsurgical options and help you choose the ones best suited for your needs, cosmetic goals, and available downtime.

Combining nonsurgical procedures with facial cosmetic surgery is safe — and often recommended. My in-depth understanding of the interplay between facial features and the overlying skin allows me to create treatment plans that help patients look younger and natural.

Surgery provides more noticeable results than nonsurgical procedures and lasts years instead of months. There are ways to extend the life of facial rejuvenation results, including avoiding significant weight changes, using sunscreen consistently, drinking plenty of water, and getting consistent sleep.