They say less is more — but does that really count when it comes to cosmetic procedures? Yes, we know that conservative is better when it comes to things like too many facelifts or too-big implants, but are non surgical options actually solid alternatives to surgical ones?
In many cases, yes. In fact, in the right situation, this is a case where less really can do more, assuming you choose a professional office and not a cheap clinic. From injectables to non surgical body contouring, here’s the details you need to know.
Non surgical procedures offer big benefits to those looking to skip plastic surgery.
Non Surgical Cosmetic Procedures: The Basics
Also known as med spa treatments, these are procedures that are handled completely in office without the need for anything more than local anesthesia and, in most cases, without incisions or stitches (though there are a few non surgical options that require very small incisions to work). Typically, they require little to no downtime aside from staying out of the sun and letting the redness settle down before any big events or meetings. These are also fairly quick treatments, taking 1-2 hours in most cases.
Non surgical procedures are best for those who are seeing smaller signs of aging or want to address minimal amounts of excess fat through body contouring. They are also great for prejuvenation, or the prevention of signs of aging.
Popular Non Surgical Cosmetic Procedures
You probably know what aspects of your appearance are bothering you; you just might not know which tweakments are ideal for addressing them. In most cases, you’ll have multiple options but below are some of the most popular.
Fat Reduction, Skin Tightening and Cellulite Reduction: VelaShape® and Kybella®
Both of these treatments target fat cells, destroy them and allow the body to flush them out. VelaShape® combines infrared light, bi-polar radio frequency energy and vacuum suction, deep heating the fat cells, the surrounding connective tissue and the collagen fibers. This stimulates the growth of new collagen and elastin, resulting in tighter skin, reduced body volume and even less cellulite.
Kybella® is an injectable treatment specifically for the chin. It kills the fat cells, allowing the body to remove them over a period of months, steadily reducing the appearance of a double chin. Most people need two treatments for full results.
Prejuvenation and Rejuvenation: BOTOX®, Fillers and Medical-Grade Skincare
These are the non surgical treatments people are most familiar with. BOTOX® helps reduce or prevent signs of aging by stopping muscle movement in targeted areas. Fillers add volume, which can help eliminate fine lines as well as create an overall more youthful look. Medical grade skin does the same while also improving everything from skin texture to pigmentation.
Benefits of Non Surgical Procedures
Now you know what non surgical procedures are and some of the options available to you. But what about why you should consider these procedures over surgery when the results would last longer? There are some important benefits.
- Minimal to No Pain: While there might be some discomfort depending on the procedure, actual pain is rare.
- Minimal Downtime: In most cases, the only recovery steps you need to take are keeping out of the sun and avoiding harsh products.
- No Incisions: Or at least that is true in most cases. This means that there is no wound care to manage or scars left behind.
- Lower Risk of Complications: While there are occasions where people have reactions to non surgical procedures, these are rare and generally much less severe than what one might experience with surgery.
- Greater Affordability: Plastic surgery is many things, but affordable isn’t one of them. While non surgical procedures aren’t cheap — at least not with reputable providers — they are significantly more affordable than surgery.
So, what’s right for you: surgical or non surgical? To determine this, sit down for a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
