Plastic Surgery Is Not The Only Way To Get Results

No matter your age, eventually the time will come when you finally decide to make an appointment to see a plastic surgeon regarding that fountain of youth you have heard so much about. Once that time comes, there are a few things to consider before picking up the phone. Just know that many minimally invasive procedures available today are actually quite effective in reducing or virtually eliminating the signs of aging, at least temporarily, meaning you do not have to get invasive plastic surgery to see a difference. The side effects from these procedures are usually minimal, and the healing period is often a matter of just a day or two. Costs do vary, and as some treatments require multiple applications, you should keep that in mind.

The number one anti-aging procedure performed last year was that of Botox injections, which more than five million women have undergone. This involves the injection of a small amount of botulinum toxin into the muscles of the face, which then blocks the contraction of the muscle. This is particularly effective on the forehead area, especially between the brows, and the wrinkles known as crow's feet at the outer corners of the eyes. You should expect slight bleeding and bruising at the injection sites, and other side effects reported include eyelid drooping, headache, and infection.

Some women opt to use dermal fillers instead of invasive plastic surgery to reduce the signs of aging, especially on the lower part of the face. This involves the use of natural agents such as hyaluronic acid or colloidal agents that work by plumping up the facial areas injected, making them appear smoother. Fillers can also be used on the lips to make them fuller as well as on the cheeks and under the eyes. The results can last several months, although the process can be repeated as needed. Like Botox, the side effects are minimal and include slight bleeding at the injection site.

A chemical peel is another popular noninvasive procedure used by over one million women last year. This involves the use of a chemical solution, which is applied to your face to exfoliate it, leaving smoother, younger-looking skin in its place. You need a series of peels for the best results, and you must protect your skin from the sun for several months after the procedure. It is especially effective for treating acne scars, fine lines or wrinkles, and skin that is sun damaged.

Laser hair removal is a procedure used to reduce unwanted hair on the body, although it will not permanently remove the hair. Using a laser-pulsed light to target the dark pigment of the hair follicles, the follicles are thus impaired, which causes the hair to fall out for up to two weeks. Multiple treatments are necessary for the best effects, and the procedure can be costly, anywhere from $200 to $1000 depending on the size of the area treated. Complications include burns and blisters, and the treatment is somewhat painful.

As you can see, there are new ways to stave off the aging process that are cost effective and with fewer complications than some of the most common plastic surgery procedures. Consult with a plastic surgeon in your area for more information about all of the anti-aging treatment options available.