A facelift (also known as a rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgery that lifts and pulls back the skin on the face to make it look tighter and smoother.
It is a popular option for women who desire long-lasting anti-ageing effects, as they notice a loss of elasticity, collagen depletion and muscle slackening with age.
As defined by the NHS, a facelift is designed to reduce loose skin around the lower half of the face – mainly the jowls – and neck.
A mini facelift could cost a few thousand pounds, while a face and neck lift could set you back around £10,000.
‘I always recommend retinol, vitamin C and peptides to stimulate collagen production’
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But it’s possible to achieve the effects of a facelift without undergoing cosmetic surgery. GB News spoke exclusively to a facial plastic surgeon and an aesthetics doctor about how women can achieve a “facelift” at home.
Board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Arnold Breitbart, told GB News that the “foundation of a nonsurgical facelift” lies in good skin care.
He said: “I always recommend retinol, vitamin C and peptides to stimulate collagen production, which helps keep the skin firm and smooth.
“A high-quality hyaluronic acid serum is also important to keep the skin well hydrated. Using sunscreen consistently is also essential, as sun damage is one of the biggest accelerators of ageing.”
Improving your lifestyle can also work wonders, according to the expert. Dr Breitbart explained: “Quality sleep allows the skin to repair itself and can reduce puffiness and fine lines.”
The expert added that managing stress is “equally important”, as this helps to prevent inflammation and collagen breakdown.
In terms of exercise, regular movement can “improve circulation and deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin”.
In a similar vein, enjoying a nutrient-rich diet could be key to achieving a nonsurgical facelift.
“Don’t underestimate the power of a good diet,” the expert warned. “Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and lean proteins can support skin health from the inside out, combat free radical damage and promote skin hydration and elasticity.”
The facial plastic surgeon concluded: “The underlying key in all of these tips is consistency. The right skin care, staying well hydrated, and a nutrient-rich diet can keep your skin lifted and glowing for years. You just need to stick with it.”
GB News also spoke to aesthetics doctor Dr Tijion Esho – an expert in nonsurgical treatments – about how women can achieve a facelift effect sans surgery.
He stated: “Looking younger doesn’t have to mean going under the knife. A combination of skin care, lifestyle changes, facial exercises and in-clinic non-surgical treatments can deliver real results that don’t need the surgeon’s table.”
Like Dr Breitbart, he recommended an excellent skin care routine, a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep and minimal stress, exercise and a healthy diet.
Stressing the importance of complexion-boosting skin care, Dr Esho described it as “the foundation of youthful skin”.
He said: “Retinol and peptides help stimulate collagen, while hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates.
“Vitamin C protects against environmental damage and brightens the skin. Most importantly, SPF 30+ every day prevents premature ageing from UV exposure.”
Dr Esho also advised women to get their lifestyles in check by sleeping for seven to nine hours every night. They should also reduce their stress levels by using meditation and exercise to “slow the ageing process”.
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The aesthetics doctor continued: “You are what you eat; it directly affects your skin. Omega-3-rich foods such as salmon and walnuts, antioxidant-packed berries and vitamin C from leafy greens all support collagen production.
“Cutting back on sugar prevents glycation, which weakens collagen and leads to sagging.”
For those who do not want to go down the surgical route but would like to receive professional treatment, Dr Esho named the non-invasive options that can give “noticeable results without surgery”.
Advanced non-invasive treatments to lift, tighten and smooth the skin
- Radiofrequency Skin Tightening (RF): Stimulates collagen for firmer, lifted skin over time
- Ultherapy (Ultrasound Therapy): Targets deep layers of skin to improve sagging and define the jawline
- Profhilo (Injectable Hydration): Hyaluronic acid treatment that improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Dermal Fillers: Strategically placed fillers can restore lost volume and provide a more youthful structure
- Botox: Softens fine lines and lifts areas like the brows for a refreshed look
Before undergoing any treatments or procedures – surgical or nonsurgical – it’s crucial to do your research, as these can come with risks. If you decide to go ahead with anything cosmetic, ensure it is administered by a professional.
In a recent deep dive, GB News unveiled the best treatments for hyperpigmentation, as recommended by aestheticians.
