Look younger sans surgery

Everyone wants to look youthful. In this age of cosmetic procedures, there are number of ways to do that. Many involve invasive or surgical procedures, which act as a deterrent for some people who are against the concept of going under the knife. Plus, there is the cost factor. But now there is a solution.

It is quick, non-invasive and easy on the pocket. A facial rejuvenation and face lift without going under the knife is now possible. The technique is called 4D facial rejuvenation and face lift.

The procedure

Typically, a face lift involves surgical procedures, so how is the 4D facial rejuvenation and face lift conducted in a non-invasive way? Dr Gauri Desai (MD), aesthetic laser specialist, co-founder, Skinsense — Skin and Laser Clinic, explains, “Two laser wavelengths are used in four steps and modes to act synergistically to stimulate collagen and renew the skin and improve its texture, pore size and elasticity. Collagen stimulation restores lost volume and reduces the lines, folds and wrinkles. She further adds that no anaesthesia or tests and preparation are required. She informs that the procedure has been around for about three to four years abroad, and they have been offering in Mumbai over a year.

Lunch-time procedure

Dr Abhijit Desai, cosmetic dermatologist and laser specialist, founder, Skinsense — Skin and Laser Clinic, informs that about four to six sittings may be required depending upon the amount of visible aging in the individual. Each session takes about half an hour. So, yes it can be done in the lunch-hour and patients can get back to routine activity immediately.

Cost factor

The effect of the procedure lasts for up to two years. A package of four sessions, a month apart is usually advised. The total cost is about Rs 40,000.

Whom is it meant for?

Males and females showing early signs of aging, usually above the age of 40 are eligible for this treatment as it promotes growth of natural collagen and delays and reverses these signs. Also, individuals in their late 30s, those who have gone through excess weight loss, those who lead a very stressful life, those who smoke a lot, etc. can choose to opt for this procedure, says Dr Gauri adding that there are no special tests required to assess eligibility.

Patient demographic

At their clinic, they have witnessed females and males as well opting for this procedure. The procedure is safe and without injections or downtime, so both sexes find it convenient. Their client demographic is usually individuals in the 40+ age group from different backgrounds like corporate, glamour industry as well as homemakers. Also, it’s not limited to the affluent. There is no bearing on professions or economic strata.

USP of the treatment

The biggest USP of the 4D Laser Skin rejuvenation and Face Lift apart from being non-surgical, and that the effects last up to two years is that there’s no aftercare (no diet restrictions or taking medications) required except using sunblock post the procedure. There’s no downtime in recovery. One can resume daily activities immediately and not have to stay at home or hide their face for some period of time, as in other procedures.

What’s interesting is that in some cases, the results can be seen almost immediately after the treatment. While for others, the effect can be seen over the course of sittings. It varies from person to person depending at what age they seek the procedure, how much ageing is visible prior to the procedure.

Pros and cons

Dr Abhijit lists the pros, “It helps to reduce fine lines, laugh lines, wrinkles. It lifts the cheeks and corners of the mouth. It stimulates collagen leading to a younger looking plumper skin. It improves the texture, pore size and tone of the skin. As for side effects, there are none other than minimal redness which may last for an hour or so in some individuals.”