Published on January 2024
Dr. Raggio’s Beautification Timeline
Recently, we’ve discussed the various surgical and non-surgical options available to reverse the signs of facial aging. Yet, the question remains: When is the best time to undergo such treatments? With the Holiday Season fast approaching, that question becomes all too relevant. That said, I’ll answer that elusive question by presenting a “beautification timeline” with multiple treatment options, ranging from professional-grade skincare to plastic surgery, to help you put your best face forward for your next big event.
Starting now: Skincare
The basis for any facial rejuvenation plan starts with using high-quality, professional-grade skincare. What’s more important than the skincare line you choose, however, is the daily use of the product. In brief, nearly every person wanting to optimize their skin’s appearance would benefit from the routine use of the following skincare items: facial cleanser, antioxidants (Vitamin C/E), Retinol/tretinoin (Vitamin A), Moisturizer, and sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater). If you’re looking to splurge, Growth Factor Serums are also an excellent additive. Regardless of what you decide to buy, I can’t stress this enough: daily use is critical!
Event in 2-4 weeks: Microneedling, Microdermabrasion, Dermaplaning
Microneedling (i.e., SkinPen) relies on the principle of inciting controlled damage to the skin to induce collagen stimulation. Microdermabrasion (i.e., DiamondGlow) combines the power of exfoliation plus the infusion of custom serums to treat various skin issues. Dermaplaning uses a sharp blade to remove dead skin and fine vellus hair (aka “peach fuzz”). These treatments, used alone or combined are great tools to get your skin glowing before your special event. Estimated Cost: $50-100.
Event in 1-2 months:
Botox and Dermal Fillers: Facial injectables, namely botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox, Xeomin, Dysport) and dermal fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane, RHA), represent a powerful, minimally invasive tool to reverse the signs of facial aging. By restoring volume and softening wrinkles, injectables represent an affordable alternative to surgery with immediate results, minimal discomfort, and little to no downtime. Results last approximately one year. NOTE: While toxin and filler results are appreciable 1-2 weeks after treatment, I encourage patients not to wait so close to events to allow time for any required correction or “touch-up.” Estimated Cost: $10-15/unit for toxin; $500-850/syringe of filler.
Event in 3 months: Skin Resurfacing (Chemical Peels, Laser Treatments)
Chemical Peels and laser treatments represent a great way to improve the texture, tone, and discoloration of the skin. While non-ablative lasers and light peels offer little to no downtime, multiple treatments are often required to obtain (and maintain) good results. On the other hand, more aggressive treatments (ie., CO2 laser, Phenol Peels) achieve more dramatic results but with longer downtimes (1-2
weeks). Estimated Cost: $200 for light treatments; $2,000 for more aggressive treatments.
Event in 4-6 months: Facial Plastic Surgery
Although a cosmetic procedure may sound off-putting or dramatic to some, modern-day plastic surgery techniques allow for subtle, natural refinements to the face with minimal downtime and low risks of complications. For example, a Facelift/Necklift is a great way to create a youthful appearance to the midface and jawline. These patients should plan for 2-3 weeks of “social downtime” and understand that results take 2-4 months to appreciate fully. Another standard facial rejuvenation procedure includes a Blepharoplasty (Fig. 1), a quick and well-tolerated in-office procedure used to refresh the appearance of one’s eyes. Lastly, an increasingly popular facial rejuvenation procedure is the Surgical Lip Lift (Fig. 2), an in- office procedure used to create a more youthful but natural appearance to the lips. Estimated Cost: Facelift/Necklift ($10,000 and up), Blepharoplasty ($3000), Lip Lift ($3000).
How can I learn more?
If you want to learn more about looking your best for your next big event, I suggest consulting with a surgeon with expertise in facial rejuvenation procedures. This will ensure you receive a comprehensive, non-biased assessment and treatment plan.
Lastly, choose a surgeon whom you trust.
There are few things more important than
your relationship with your doctor.
In Good Health,
Blake Raggio, M.D
Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
