Information on the liquid facelift
“Liquid facelift” is a name for planning several injectable treatments for different areas of the face together, without surgery. Usually hyaluronic acid fillers for volume loss, botulinum toxin for expression lines and skin boosters for skin quality are combined. It is not a single procedure but an individually planned approach.
Difference from a surgical facelift
A liquid facelift does not remove excess skin or tissue, does not replace a surgical facelift and does not give an equivalent result. It may be considered for mild to moderate volume loss and a tired appearance; for marked sagging and excess skin, surgical options may be more appropriate.
Planning
Facial proportions, volume distribution, expression movements, skin quality and the person's expectations are assessed together. Which treatment goes where, and in what order, is decided from this assessment. Not all treatments need to be done in the same session.
Evidence and expectations
Clinical studies of full-face plans combining botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid fillers and skin-quality treatments have reported improved appearance and satisfaction; however, these studies used specific products and their results cannot be generalized to every product or person. Effects are temporary; their duration depends on the products and individual factors.
Treatment details
Duration: About 45–90 minutes depending on the planned treatments.
Who it is for: Adults with mild to moderate volume loss and a tired appearance without marked excess skin.
Number of sessions: Usually completed in 1–2 sessions; a check-up after about 2 weeks. The final plan is set by the physician after the examination.
Possible risks
Each treatment has its own risks: swelling, bruising, tenderness, asymmetry, temporary irregularities; eyebrow or eyelid drooping with botulinum toxin; and with fillers the rare but serious complication of vascular occlusion. Severe increasing pain, whitening of the skin, purplish discoloration or a change in vision requires urgent assessment.
Who may not be suitable?
Active infection in the area, allergy to product components, pregnancy and breastfeeding, a history of neuromuscular disease, immune-related diseases and a bleeding tendency are assessed separately.
Aftercare
Avoiding massage and pressure on treated areas on the first day and briefly avoiding intense exercise and heat such as saunas may be advised. A follow-up after the swelling settles is recommended.
Frequently asked questions
Does a liquid facelift replace surgery?
No. It does not remove excess skin and should not be considered equivalent to a surgical facelift.
How long does it last?
The effect is not permanent; it depends on the products, areas and individual factors.
Is it done in one session?
The plan is individual; treatments are sometimes split over several sessions.
This text is intended for general information and is not personalized diagnostic or treatment advice. Eligibility is determined after a medical history and examination. Outcomes may vary from person to person; a specific result cannot be guaranteed.
References
- Hedén P, et al. Effective and Safe Repeated Full-Face Treatments With AbobotulinumtoxinA, Hyaluronic Acid Filler, and Skin Boosting Hyaluronic Acid. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019. PMID: 31334927.
- Cartier H, et al. Repeated Full-Face Aesthetic Combination Treatment With AbobotulinumtoxinA, Hyaluronic Acid Filler, and Skin-Boosting Hyaluronic Acid After Monotherapy With AbobotulinumtoxinA or Hyaluronic Acid Filler. Dermatol Surg. 2020. PMID: 31592825.
- Signorini M, et al. Global Aesthetics Consensus: Avoidance and Management of Complications from Hyaluronic Acid Fillers. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2016;137(6):961e-971e. PMID: 27219265.
