: Before & After Photos

Non-surgical cosmetic procedures have been gaining popularity in recent years for good reasons. The fillers available and the results obtained, when performed appropriately, are better and better. I believe in fillers as an option, and I offer them and do all the injections myself in my practice. Unfortunately, I see all too many cases where they are used inappropriately. While dermal fillers offer promising results, they are not an alternative to a facelift. If you are looking to address minor early-on signs of aging with a quick, in-office visit, or to maintain the results of your facelift by addressing limited areas, fillers may be right for you. However, the majority of patients concerned about significant aging will see more advantages with traditional facelift procedures.

Injectables can be a tempting option for patients with busy lifestyles. That’s why, as a board-certified plastic surgeon, I pair advanced surgical techniques with the skill and artistry necessary to maximize your results with as little downtime as possible. Today, we’ll take a look at a few reasons you should consider a facelift over dermal fillers.

#1: Natural-Looking Results

When done incorrectly, dermal fillers can leave patients with an unnatural appearance. Many patients (and providers) tend to overcompensate with fillers, which can lead to distorted facial proportions or unwanted facial stiffness. If you decide to opt for injectables to address your anti-aging concerns, be sure to choose a skilled provider with expertise in facial anatomy.

#2: The No-Downtime Myth

It’s true – you’ll be able to get back to work and most of your normal routines directly after soft tissue fillers. However, many patients aren’t aware of the potential complications and side effects they face with fillers. Many patients can expect tenderness, swelling, and even bruising for up to 10-14 days following treatment with fillers. Fillers are temporary meaning multiple ongoing trips to the office – and that time takes you away from the office and your family. Pair that with potential bruising and swelling with each treatment, and your total downtime from fillers quickly surpasses the recovery from a well-performed facelift.

#3: Effectively Address More Concerns

Dermal fillers can be effective for limited volumizing of the face, but their main indication is addressing wrinkles and depressions in the skin. Pushing the envelope by using more and more fillers to avoid a facelift creates facial distortion – which we all see! A facelift can address sagging skin, reposition fat pads, and restore a more youthful appearance. The facelift alone can address limited facial volume loss and when paired with fat grafting, using your own body fat, can address moderate to severe volume loss with a natural supple result.

#4: Similar Price Tags

While dermal fillers are certainly less expensive initially, the cost of your treatments can quickly add up. Maintaining results means keeping up with treatments on a regular basis.

Furthermore, most patients need more and more product to get the results they want after each treatment making them less cost-effective in the long run. Facelift procedures are a one-time procedure with a single expense.

#5: Long-Term Results

Dermal fillers are naturally reabsorbed into the body over time. Your minimally-invasive procedure may need to be repeated several times per year depending on the treatment area and your natural aging process. With a traditional facelift,you’ll be able to enjoy long-lasting results for 10-15 years. Best yet, you’ll always have a younger-looking appearance than if you hadn’t had the procedure done.

Take the Next Step

Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D.to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 362-1221. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have! *Results may vary

Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure designed to reduce, lift, and reshape breasts to reduce the discomfort related to large breasts, and to create better proportion and balance with the rest of the body. The procedure is highly individualized but may include removal of excess skin, lifting and repositioning the breasts, removal of excess glandular tissue and fat to make the breast size smaller and reshaping to provide more symmetry between the breasts. Most women feel an immediate sense of relief after the procedure with an increase in their self-image.

New techniques, developed in France, have revolutionized the results, significantly reduced scarring, dramatically decreased pain following surgery, and create a long lasting lift. Not every woman is a candidate for these techniques, but in practice, over 90% of women do qualify.

Having performed well over 5,000 breast enhancement procedures, I feel confident in providing you with the best possible outcome. Prior to the procedure, there are several key elements I make sure to address in order to ensure your goals can be met without complications. I work with each woman independently to assess her candidacy for breast reduction.

#1: You are in otherwise good health

As a part of your pre-screening for breast reduction, you’ll need to undergo a brief medical evaluation, including blood work. The ideal candidate for the procedure is an otherwise healthy woman who is a non-smoker. While it is best for you to be close to your desired weight, generally being overweight does not prevent you from having breast reduction surgery.

#2: Overly large breasts cause you physical discomfort

If you have back, shoulder, or neck pain as a result of your large breasts, you may be a good fit for a reduction procedure. Overly large breasts can cause you physical discomfort, and interfere with your lifestyle. In some cases, large breasts can result in rashes or infections under the breasts.

#3: One or both breasts are disproportionate to your body

Many women choose a breast reduction for aesthetic reasons as well. After the procedure, clothing generally fits better, and patients gain a more balanced shape. Breast reduction has both physical and emotional benefits for the majority of women who undergo the procedure.

#4: You have time to commit to recovery

While a breast reduction can have life-changing results for the right woman, it is a surgical procedure that requires adequate time to heal properly. Typically, I recommend taking five to seven days off work, seven days before returning to the gym for somewhat limited activity, and approximately six weeks before returning to high impact activities like running.

#5: You have realistic expectations about the procedure

Women should go into the procedure with a good understanding of the anticipated results. You’re much more likely to have an optimal outcome once you have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you. No two procedures are performed exactly the same, nor are the results the same for any two women. During your initial consultation, in addition to an examination, I will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of your options and alternatives, discuss risks, potential complications, recovery time and anticipated results. You will view over 100 photographs of pre and post-operative results. You’re encouraged to ask lots of questions to ensure your concerns are addressed and your desired results are achieved.

Take the Next Step

Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D. to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 362-1221. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have! *Results may vary