A Complete Guide to Non-Surgical Facelifts

April 29th, 2025

A facelift is one of the most popular plastic surgeries performed in the cosmetic industry. Over the years, the procedure has evolved, enabling the emergence of new technologies.

This shift in technological advancements has given rise to more non-invasive options, offering non-surgical facelift alternatives for those who are not prepared to undergo surgery. 

Non-surgical facelifts are gaining popularity, and the technology used to perform them is becoming increasingly innovative.

In this article, we’ll take a deeper look into what non-surgical facelifts are and how they differ from their more traditional counterparts, while also providing insight into what we believe to be the best non-surgical facelift options available.

We will also address the question on everyone’s mind: ‘What is a non-surgical facelift?’ 

What is a Non-Surgical Facelift?

man getting botox, to his eyebrows

A non-surgical facelift refers to a variety of cosmetic procedures that aim to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of the face without the need for surgery. 

These procedures typically utilise minimally invasive techniques such as injections, laser therapy, or radiofrequency energy to address common signs of ageing. While being primarily popular among under-40s, there has been a growth in the number of people experimenting with non-surgical solutions. 

There has been a growth in the number of 60s using non-surgical solutions, with many choosing not to undergo permanent procedures.

Procedures such as dermal fillers and volume restoration are leading the way as the most popular and best non-surgical facelifts for the over-60s. 

Studies have been carried out which show how non-surgical approaches can improve facial ageing

The Best Non-Surgical Facelift For Over 60s

We always recommend a combination of non-surgical facelift treatments to address skin laxity and volume loss. Dermal fillers and Ultherapy are often the best combination for individuals over 60.  These treatments can help restore facial volume, tighten the skin, and smooth the appearance of wrinkles. 

Types of Non-Surgical Facelifts

male dermal fillers

There is a selection of non-surgical facelifts on offer, these include:

  • Dermal Fillers Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to restore volume, fill in wrinkles and lines, and enhance facial contours. 
  • Botox Botox injections temporarily relax facial muscles responsible for causing dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. By preventing muscle contractions, Botox can smooth out wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming.
  • Thread Lifts –Thread lifts involve the insertion of dissolvable threads into the skin to lift and support sagging tissue. These threads, usually made of biodegradable materials such as polydioxanone (PDO), provide immediate lifting effects while also stimulating collagen production. This process leads to firmer, more lifted skin over time.

  • Laser Resurfacing –Laser treatments, including fractional laser therapy and intense pulsed light (IPL), can enhance skin tone and texture, diminish pigmentation irregularities, and promote collagen production to tighten and rejuvenate the skin.
  • Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy – RF devices deliver controlled heat energy to the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening loose or sagging skin. 
  • Chemical Peels – Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the outer layers and stimulates cell turnover. Peels can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade pigmentation, and promote a more radiant complexion.

Traditional Facelift vs. Non-Surgical Facelift

laser therapy

A traditional facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the visible signs of ageing on the face and neck. 

The procedure involves making incisions along the hairline and/or behind the ears to access underlying tissues. 

These tissues are then repositioned, excess fat is removed, and muscles may be tightened to create a more youthful appearance.

The skin is then re-draped over the altered contours before the incisions are closed with sutures.

Key Differences Between Surgical and Non-Surgical Approaches

  • Invasiveness – Traditional facelift surgery is invasive, involving incisions and manipulation of underlying tissues. Non-surgical facelift procedures typically involve minimal to no incisions, using techniques such as injections or energy-based treatments.
  • Recovery time – Surgical facelifts generally require a longer recovery period compared to non-surgical options. You may need to take time off work and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks after surgery. Non-surgical treatments often have minimal downtime, allowing you to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
  • Longevity of results – Surgical facelifts typically provide more long-lasting results compared to non-surgical treatments. While non-surgical procedures can yield noticeable improvements, they may require ongoing maintenance sessions to sustain the effects.
  • Risk and complications – Surgical facelifts carry inherent risks associated with anaesthesia, infection, scarring, and other surgical complications. Non-surgical procedures generally have fewer risks and side effects, although they may still present minor risks such as bruising, swelling, or allergic reactions.

Pros and Cons of Non-Surgical Facelifts

chemical peels

Pros

Minimal Invasiveness 

Non-surgical facelift procedures are minimally invasive or non-invasive. 

They do not require incisions or extensive tissue manipulation, resulting in less trauma to the skin and a reduced risk of complications.

Shorter Recovery Time 

Compared to surgical facelifts, non-surgical procedures generally have shorter recovery periods.

You can typically resume normal activities shortly after treatment, with minimal downtime required.

This allows your daily life to be minimally impacted when receiving treatment.

Lower Risk of Complications 

Non-surgical facelifts carry fewer risks compared to surgical procedures, such as infection, scarring, and anaesthesia-related complications. 

While minor side effects like bruising, swelling, or redness may occur, they are usually temporary and resolve quickly.

Customisable Treatments 

Non-surgical facelift procedures can be customised to address specific ageing concerns and target different areas of your face. 

Cosmetic practitioners can tailor treatment plans to meet your individual needs and preferences, ensuring natural-looking results.

Gradual Results 

Many non-surgical facelift procedures provide gradual improvements over time, allowing you to achieve subtle yet noticeable enhancements without drastic changes to your appearance. 

This gradual approach can help avoid the “overdone” look often associated with more invasive procedures.

dermal fillers

Cons

Temporary Results 

While non-surgical facelift procedures can yield noticeable improvements in the appearance of the skin and facial contours, the results are often temporary. 

Maintenance treatments may be required to sustain the effects over time, leading to ongoing costs and commitment.

Less Dramatic Changes 

Non-surgical facelifts may not be as effective as surgical procedures for addressing severe sagging, excess skin, or significant facial ageing. 

They are generally more suitable for mild to moderate concerns and may not produce the same level of transformation as a surgical facelift.

Limited Longevity 

Non-surgical facelift procedures typically provide results that last for a limited time. The duration varies from several months to a few years, depending on the specific treatment used and individual factors such as skin type and lifestyle habits.

To maintain the effects, regular follow-up sessions may be necessary.

Potential for Side Effects 

While non-surgical facelift procedures are generally safe, they may still carry risks of side effects such as bruising, swelling, redness, or allergic reactions. 

What is the Best Non-Surgical Facelift Option?

When selecting the best non-surgical facelift options, it is essential first to understand your individual needs and desired results.  As of now, Ultherapy and HIFU treatments are extremely popular, with dermal fillers and Botox gaining popularity every year. 

If you are unsure which non-surgical facelift solution is the best option for you, it is essential to discuss your desired look and budget with an aesthetician or medical professional, as they can clearly outline which non-surgical option would be best suited to your individual needs. 

Who is Suitable for Non-Surgical Facelifts?

Non-surgical facelift procedures are most effective if you have mild to moderate concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, mild sagging, and loss of facial volume. 

These procedures can help rejuvenate your skin, improve texture, and restore a more youthful appearance.

If you want to avoid the risks and downtime associated with surgery, you may find non-surgical facelifts appealing.

Get in touch with New Birkdale to see how we can help with your non-surgical facelift.

People Also Ask

Some questions that patients also ask include:

How long does a non-surgical facelift last? 

Non-surgical facelift options are by no means a permanent solution, but they do last a considerable amount of time. Non-surgical facelifts typically last from 12 to 18 months, but this duration can vary depending on the treatment type and whether maintenance appointments are required. 

How much does a non-surgical facelift cost? 

Once again, the answer to this question depends largely on the type of treatment you are undergoing.  A non-surgical facelift can cost anything between £750 and £3,000. Again, numerous factors determine the overall price of the procedure, with the cost ultimately being at the surgeon’s discretion. 

How to lift face skin after 50

Lifestyle adjustments, skincare, and cosmetic procedures can all help lift the skin on your face after the age of 50. Depending on the severity of your skin sagging, there are a range of options to choose from, both surgical and non-surgical. For more pronounced results, laser or surgical treatment may be the best option. 

 

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