Saving Face | The Best Alternatives to Cosmetic Surgery

Embrace your natural beauty with these alternatives to cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic surgery has become increasingly popular over the years as a way to enhance your appearance and reduce the signs of ageing. However, the risks and potential complications associated with these procedures have resulted in many seeking out non-surgical alternatives, which have fewer risks, quicker recovery and can still deliver beautiful results. We turned to Dr Kate Jameson, founder and medical director of Youth Lab, Australia’s leading medical aesthetics clinic specialising in non-surgical aesthetics and skin rejuvenation, about the advances in non-surgical procedures.

What are the most common non-surgical alternative treatments to have you looking (and feeling) fresher, younger and more confident?

Alternatives to a Face Lift: Collagen Stimulating Mono PDO Threads

A facelift is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce sagging skin and wrinkles. However, for those looking for a non-surgical alternative, collagen-stimulating Mono PDO threads offer an effective solution. PDO (polydioxanone) threads are thin, biodegradable sutures that are inserted under the skin to lift and tighten the face. The procedure is relatively quick and painless and there is limited downtime.

PDO threads not only provide an immediate lifting effect but also stimulate the production of collagen, which improves skin elasticity and firmness over time. They slowly dissolve within the skin over months, leaving behind new collagen and elastin, resulting in firmer and tighter skin. The procedure is minimally invasive and requires no incisions or anesthesia, making it a safer and more accessible option for those who wish to rejuvenate their appearance without undergoing surgery.

Alternatives to a Blepharoplasty: Radiofrequency Skin Tightening

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is often performed to address drooping eyelids and remove excess skin or fat from the eyelid area. It is the gold standard treatment for those with hooded eyes, eye bags and saggy skin. Unfortunately, non-surgical options have always been limited in the eye area but for some people seeking a non-surgical alternative, radiofrequency (RF) skin tightening can be an effective option.

RF skin tightening uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting skin tightening. As radiofrequency is not a laser, it is safe to do very close to the eyes and can effectively treat the skin around the eye to stimulate collagen production over time. This treatment can effectively reduce the appearance of sagging eyelids and fine lines around the eyes, giving a more rested appearance. It may not remove the excess skin but It is a non-invasive procedure with minimal downtime, allowing you to achieve a more youthful and refreshed look without the need for surgery.

Alternatives to Liposuction: Fat Dissolving Injections and Body Contouring

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat deposits from various areas of the body and can be very effective if large areas need to be treated or if the fat is stubborn and resistant to diet and exercise. Unfortunately, liposuction can be expensive with a long recovery. With recent technological advances those seeking body contouring and treatment of stubborn fat now have a wide array of non-surgical options at their disposal. The most popular of these are fat-dissolving injections and body contouring with CoolSculpting.

Fat-dissolving injections are an approved injectable treatment that contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid (a natural acid found within our body that breaks down fat in food). When injected into targeted areas, such as the chin or jawline, it destroys fat cells, resulting in a more contoured and defined appearance. The treatment requires a series of injections over several sessions, and the results gradually improve over time. It is a safe and effective alternative to liposuction, with minimal downtime and reduced risks associated with surgery.

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that uses controlled cooling to target and freeze fat cells. The frozen fat cells are then naturally eliminated from the body over time, resulting in a more sculpted and toned appearance. Coolsculpting can be used all over the body, from the abdomen, outer and inner thighs, arms and even double chins. The procedure is comfortable and relaxing and normal activities can be resumed straight away.

Alternatives to a Rhinoplasty: Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty with Dermal Fillers

Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, is a common procedure to address cosmetic and functional concerns of the nose. A rhinoplasty is not an easy decision for many, with significant recovery times, costs involved and a permanent outcome following the operation. Many who suffer from lumps and bumps in the nose, who may be considering surgery, may be suitable for a non-surgical rhinoplasty using dermal fillers. This treatment can provide a temporary but effective solution, all without the risks of surgery.

During a non-surgical rhinoplasty, dermal fillers using hyaluronic acid are strategically placed to reshape and contour the nose. This procedure can address concerns such as a dorsal hump, asymmetry, or a drooping nasal tip. The results are immediate, and there is minimal downtime involved. Many may eventually decide to progress with surgery, but this option can give the impression of a surgical result in the meantime.

Alternatives to Fat Transfer: Dermal Fillers and Collagen Stimulators

Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, involves harvesting fat from one part of the body and transferring it to another area to add volume and enhance facial contours. Popular areas for fat grafting are the breasts and the cheeks. When fat grafting is used in the face it can look very natural, unfortunately in some cases the fat does not last long and the results are very temporary. A downside of fat grafting is also the surgical procedure (liposuction to remove the fat) and the possible need for multiple treatments. The non-surgical alternatives such as hyaluronic acid dermal fillers and collagen stimulators can add facial volume, restructure the face and enhance the beauty in a single, 30-minute treatment with minimal downtime.

Dermal fillers can be used to add volume and restore youthful contours to the face. They can address concerns like hollowed cheeks, deep wrinkles and folds, loss of jawline definition and thin lips. Collagen-stimulating injections, such as Sculptra, work by stimulating the production of collagen in the skin. This gradual collagen production leads to improved skin texture, volume, and firmness over time. Sculptra is commonly used to restore volume in the cheeks, temples, and other areas of the face. When combined or used separately, dermal fillers and collagen stimulators can give far superior results than fat transfer without the need for surgery.

Cosmetic surgery may offer significant transformations, but it is not the only option for those seeking to enhance their appearance. With advancements in non-surgical procedures, alternatives to traditional surgeries have emerged, providing effective and safe solutions for various cosmetic concerns, without going under the knife. It is of course, important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine the most suitable alternative for your own unique goals.