Liquid Facelift Overview

Want to look years younger without going under the knife? At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, our liquid facelift combines dermal fillers and Botox to restore your natural youthfulness – no surgery needed. Think of it as your non-surgical facelift alternative that lets you return to your day right after treatment.

Benefits of a Liquid Facelift

  1. No Surgery or Scars: Get remarkable results without incisionsbefore and after results from a liquid facelift in San Diego, CA
  2. Quick Recovery: Return to most activities right away
  3. Natural Results: No pulled or overdone look
  4. Customizable: Adjust treatment to your exact needs
  5. Gradual Change: People notice you look better, not different
  6. Long-Lasting: Enjoy results for 1-2 years
  7. Reversible: Most fillers can be dissolved if needed

What’s a Liquid Facelift?

A liquid facelift combines injections of dermal fillers and Botox to lift, smooth, and rejuvenate your face. Think of it as a non-surgical facelift that:

  • Restores lost volume
  • Smooths wrinkles and fine lines
  • Lifts sagging areas
  • Defines facial contours
  • Creates a more youthful appearance

When paired with Botox (sometimes called a Botox facelift), this treatment can:

What to Expect from Your Non-Surgical Facelift

Before Treatment

Your liquid facelift journey begins with a thorough consultation at our San Diego office. We’ll take time to understand what bothers you about your appearance and what results you’re hoping to achieve. During this visit, we’ll analyze your facial structure and design a custom treatment plan that might include both dermal fillers and Botox. We’ll take “before” photos and make sure all your questions are answered before moving forward.

During Your Treatment

The actual treatment is very comfortable and methodical. We start by applying a topical numbing cream that takes about 15-20 minutes to work. While you’re waiting, you can relax in our treatment room – many patients use this time to catch up on emails or read.

Before and after front image of Radiesse treatment on a female's face performed by Dr. Butterwick at our San Diego medical clinic

Once you’re numb, your provider will:

  • Cleanse your skin thoroughly
  • Mark injection points
  • Begin placing fillers and Botox
  • Apply cool compresses between areas as needed

The entire treatment usually takes about an hour, though this can vary depending on how many areas we’re treating. Many patients are surprised by how comfortable the process is, thanks to our gentle technique and effective numbing.

Right After Treatment

Immediately after your liquid facelift, you’ll notice some immediate changes – especially from the fillers. Your face might feel a bit full, and you’ll likely see:

  • Some redness at injection sites
  • Small bumps where filler was placed
  • Initial volume improvement

These effects are all normal and temporary. We’ll provide you with ice packs and detailed aftercare instructions before you leave.

The First Few Days

Your results will develop gradually over about two weeks. During the first few days, any swelling usually peaks around day 2 before starting to subside. The Botox component begins taking effect around days 3-5, while your fillers settle beautifully into place.

Important aftercare tips for optimal results:

  • Sleep with your head elevated the first night
  • Skip makeup for 12 hours
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
  • Stay hydrated
  • Protect your skin from sun exposure

Most of our patients return to their normal activities right away, though some prefer taking the rest of the treatment day to relax. If you have a special event coming up, we recommend scheduling your liquid facelift at least two weeks in advance.

When to Reach Out

While complications are rare, we want you to feel completely supported throughout your recovery. Contact our office if you experience:
• Unusual swelling or pain
• Severe bruising
• Any concerns about your treatment areas

Ready for a Facelift Without the Scalpel?

Schedule the consultation and experience the rejuvenating effects of a liquid facelift at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology. Our expert team has helped countless patients throughout Southern California achieve natural-looking youth restoration without surgery.

Photos

Actual un-retouched patient before and after Belotero filler treatment for liquid facelift by Dr. Groff. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Belotero filler treatment for liquid facelift by Dr. Groff
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Belotero injections for a liquid facelift by Dr Groff. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Belotero injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Groff
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Belotero injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Groff. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Belotero injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Groff
Actual un-retouched patient before and after filler treatment for liquid facelift by Dr. Goldman. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after filler injections for liquid facelift by Dr. Goldman
Actual unretouched patient before and after Voluma, Sculptra and Perlane injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Voluma, Sculptra and Perlane injections for liquid facelift by Dr. Fabi
Actual unretouched patient before and after Belotero and Voluma injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Belotero and Voluma injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Fabi
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Radiesse injections for a liquid facelift by Dr. Butterwick. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Radiesse filler injections for liquid facelift by Dr. Butterwick
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Radiesse injections to augment the cheeks by Dr. Butterwick. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Radiesse injections to augment the cheeks by Dr. Butterwick
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Radiesse injections to augment the cheeks by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Radiesse injections to augment cheeks by Dr. Fabi
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Radiesse injections for cheek augmentation by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Radiesse injections to augment cheeks by Dr. Fabi
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Radiesse, Belotero and Sculptra for wrinkles and facial rejuvenation by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Radiesse, Belotero and Sculptra for wrinkles and facial rejuvenation by Dr. Fabi
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Sculptra, Radiesse and Belotero for wrinkles and facial rejuvenation by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Belotero, Radiesse and Sculptra for wrinkles and facial rejuvenation by Dr. Fabi
Actual un-retouched patient before and after Sculptra, Belotero and Radiesse for wrinkles and skin rejuvenation by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after Belotero, Sculptra and Radiesse for wrinkles and skin rejuvenation by Dr. Fabi
Actual un-retouched patient before and after filler treatment to augment cheeks and reduce wrinkles by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed. Before and after filler treatment to augment cheeks and reduce wrinkles by Dr. Fabi

Videos

Injectables at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology
Dr. Fabi Performs a Liquid Facelift (3:07)
Facelift Alternatives (1:04)

FAQs

Q: How is this procedure performed?

A:

First, you will have a consultation with one of our cosmetic dermatologists, who will design a treatment plan that will address your specific anti-aging needs and goals. Our doctors will determine the best combination of dermal fillers and Botox to rejuvenate your face. The treatment itself will be performed in our San Diego office. Filler injections will be used to smooth out the wrinkles you have, while the Botox injections are used to relax facial muscles to prevent new wrinkles from forming. Depending on the number of injection sites and the injectables used, the treatment can be as quick as 30 minutes or as long as an hour.

Q: How many treatments will I need?

A:

Patients generally only need one treatment to achieve the desired results. However, if Sculptra is used, you will need a few treatments before you see the full effects. Also, keep in mind that the results of a liquid facelift are temporary. You will need to come back for touch-up treatments as the injectables begin to wear off.

Q: When will I see results?

A:

You will see results almost immediately, but this depends on which injectables are used. In general, you can expect to see full results within a week of the treatment. Botox and Dysport take a few days to take effect. If hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are used, you will see the results immediately after the treatment. If Sculptra is used it will take a couple of months before you see full results because the volume is not created by the product itself, but by Sculptra’s ability to stimulate the body’s own production of new collagen.

Q: What injectables are used in a combination treatment?

A:

The injectables used in a liquid facelift depend on the patient’s individual needs. Any combination of temporary hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm and Restylane), long-lasting fillers (Radiesse and Sculptra) and neurotoxins (Botox and Dysport) can be used to rejuvenate the face.

Q: Can fat grafting be used?

A:

Yes, fat grafting is another option that can be used in a liquid facelift. A multi-level fat transfer is a longer-lasting alternative to injectable fillers. The fat that is harvested from another location on your body is injected into your face to replace lost volume or contour the face. Fat grafting is a very specialized procedure and our doctors are known experts for their technique.

Q: How much recovery time should I expect?

A:

Since this is a nonsurgical procedure there is minimal downtime. Most patients are able to return to work or their normal daily activities immediately after the treatment. You may experience some redness or swelling at the injection site, but this can be covered with makeup.

Q: How long do the results last?

A:

The duration depends on which fillers were used in the procedure. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers (Juvederm and Restylane) can last from 6-12 months, while the semi-permanent fillers (Radiesse and Sculptra) can last up to 2 years. Botox and Dysport generally last up to 6 months. You can come back for touch up treatments as the effects start to wear off so that you can maintain your youthful look.

Q: What are the side effects?

A:

The side effects are minimal. However, common side effects for most injectables can include localized pain, bruising, inflammation, redness, itching, bruising and/or swelling.

Q: How much does it cost?

A:

Since each patient’s personal treatment is customized to his or her individual needs and goals the cost varies. To find out the cost, set up a consultation with one of our dermatologists.

Other Options

Fat grafting is another alternative for a liquid facelift and provides wonderful results for facial rejuvenation. Please schedule a consultation with the skincare experts at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology today. During your consultation, we will discuss your individual treatment goals and results and help you choose a procedure that’s right for you.

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Get answers directly from Mitchel P. Goldman, MD and Leysin Fletcher, PA-C at our live webinar with an open Q&A.

First 3 attendees to book with Leysin will receive 10% off their treatment + a complimentary skincare basket*

Register Here

*Treatment must be completed by end of June 2025. Skincare basket will be provided upon completion of treatment. Terms & conditions may apply.