Aesthetic procedures are minimally invasive, but the results are short-lived. Plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Lex comments on some of the top non-surgical cosmetic treatments popularized by TikTok and Instagram influencers, including the botox lip flip, baby botox, thread lifts, and more.
In an era where self-care and self-expression are celebrated, aesthetics has radically transformed over the past two decades. Advancements in non-surgical and surgical cosmetic treatments have created opportunities for individuals to enhance their natural beauty and embrace a more youthful appearance at various price points and with minimal downtime.
Among the many aesthetic trends, the “botox lip flip” and “baby botox” procedures stand out as two procedures we get asked about today that we didn’t a few years ago. This article delves into the top aesthetic trends of 2023 from a clinical perspective.
Aesthetic Evolution: Moving Beyond the Traditional
Methods to achieve youthful beauty have evolved significantly over the years. Today, individuals seek subtle enhancements highlighting their unique features rather than striving for radical, “cookie-cutter” changes. This shift has led to the emergence of non-surgical and minimally invasive procedures that offer impressive results without the downtime associated with traditional surgical approaches.
The Botox Lip Flip: A Subtle Enhancement
The “botox lip flip” is a trending non-surgical procedure designed to enhance the lips’ appearance subtly. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume to the lips, the botox lip flip uses botulinum toxin injections strategically placed around the lips to create the illusion of a fuller, more pronounced lip line. This technique relaxes the muscles, allowing the upper lip to gently roll outward, giving the appearance of a fuller lip without requiring filler injections. This procedure particularly appeals to those seeking a delicate enhancement that maintains the natural proportions of their lips. It’s important to note that the effects are temporary and typically last around 2 to 3 months, after which we can repeat the procedure.
Baby Botox
“Baby botox,” another popular aesthetic trend, refers to using lower doses of botulinum toxin to achieve a more subtle and natural appearance. This approach avoids the “frozen” look associated with higher doses of neuromodulators, allowing for nuanced muscle movement and expression while still reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Clinically, the technique requires precision and an understanding of facial anatomy to achieve a smoother, more youthful appearance while preserving natural expressions.
Our practice has seen plenty of patients overworked with botox and fillers, so we take a conservative approach. While “baby botox” may be a buzz term today, it’s always been a practical approach to appropriately dosing botulinum to achieve natural-looking results. Learn More About Botox.
Thread Lifts
Thread lifts have gained popularity as a non-surgical alternative to traditional facelifts – but they aren’t a treatment we recommend or perform. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting dissolvable threads under the skin and is purported to lift and tighten sagging areas of the face. Over time, these threads are purported to stimulate collagen production, contributing to a more youthful appearance; however, evidence does not support these results. Thread lifts are commonly marketed to address sagging cheeks, jowls, and necks. To learn more about the downsides of thread lifts and what we recommend instead, read our recent article.
Liquid Nose Jobs
Here’s another popular – yet potentially dangerous procedure we do not perform. Nose filler, or non-surgical rhinoplasty or liquid rhinoplasty, entails the injection of dermal fillers into the nose to either reshape it or enhance its aesthetic appeal. This subject sparks debates within the realm of plastic surgeons and other practitioners of cosmetic injections. From my standpoint, I am inclined to believe that the potential risks associated with nose fillers tend to outweigh the benefits.
The nasal region boasts an intricate network of blood vessels, and any mishandling in injection technique or improper filler placement can result in vascular complications. Injecting filler into a blood vessel can obstruct blood circulation, potentially leading to tissue damage, necrosis, or blindness. Although such complications are infrequent, they are grave.
In contrast to surgical rhinoplasty, which offers meticulous and controlled alterations, nose filler procedures are marked by a lack of consistency and predictability. Furthermore, this approach is transient in nature. The administered fillers gradually degrade over time, necessitating periodic injections to sustain the desired appearance. This requirement translates to ongoing expenses (typically $800 to $1,500 per session) and potential risks with each successive appointment.
Microneedling
Microneedling, a minimally invasive procedure, uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, producing smoother, more youthful skin. Learn More About Microneedling
Botox Brow Lift
Sometimes referred to as “Hollywood’s well-kept secret,” the botox brow lift has become a sought-after non-surgical cosmetic procedure. This innovative technique effectively lifts the eyebrows, smoothens wrinkles, and slows down the visible signs of aging. This procedure particularly appeals to my patients because of its minimal downtime, non-invasive nature, and ability to achieve a more youthful and revitalized appearance.
At the core of the botox brow lift’s effectiveness lies the action of botulinum toxin, which works by temporarily relaxing muscle fibers. By strategically injecting this toxin into the muscles that pull the eyebrows downward, we can subtly achieve a lifted and rejuvenated appearance. The results are often remarkable, offering patients a more youthful and refreshed look without invasive surgery.
It’s important to understand that while the botox brow lift can effectively create a temporary opening in the eye area, elevate the brows, and diminish the appearance of wrinkles, it is not a permanent solution. The effects of botox are temporary, typically lasting for a period of three to four months. As a result, patients generally return for maintenance treatments to uphold and prolong the achieved results.
In conclusion, the botox brow lift has emerged as a popular cosmetic procedure, offering a convenient and effective way to combat the effects of aging. By harnessing the power of botulinum toxin to lift and rejuvenate the brow area, patients can enjoy a refreshed and youthful appearance with minimal disruption to their daily lives. Read More About the Botox Brow Lift.
Jawline Contouring
Jawline contouring procedures involve enhancing the definition of the jawline using dermal fillers or botulinum toxin injections. Dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based products, are strategically injected along the jawline to sculpt and refine its contours. By strategically placing these fillers, practitioners can add volume, create sharper angles, and emphasize the jawline’s natural structure. Botox injections in the masseters can relax those muscles, further defining the submalar hollow between the cheekbone and jawline. This trend has gained popularity due to its ability to create a more defined and sculpted jawline, contributing to an overall youthful appearance. The results are typically noticeable immediately and can last several months, making jawline contouring with injectables attractive for those seeking temporary yet impactful facial enhancements. Learn more about Dermal Fillers. Learn more about Botox.
Hand Rejuvenation
Hand rejuvenation procedures are becoming more sought after as individuals recognize that the hands can betray signs of aging as much as the face. Treatments may involve using fat grafting to restore volume and laser treatments, chemical peels, and IPL treatments to address age spots and skin texture. Some providers inject fillers into the hand, but this usually results in sub-par, short-term, and inconsistent results compared to fat grafting. Learn More About Hand Rejuvenation.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing procedures use controlled laser energy to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production. These treatments can address wrinkles, moles, scars, sun damage, and skin texture. Learn More About Laser Treatments.
Chin Augmentation
Chin augmentation procedures involve enhancing the chin’s appearance using dermal fillers or implants. This can create better facial balance and profile, creating a more attractive look. Learn More About Chin Procedures.
Final Thoughts
Remember that trends in aesthetics are ever-evolving, and what might be popular now could change. It’s essential to consult with a qualified medical professional to discuss your goals, concerns, and the most appropriate treatments for your individual needs. Always prioritize safety, expertise, and realistic expectations when considering aesthetic procedures.
Book A Cosmetic Consult Today
Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and experienced providers at Plastic Surgeons of Northern Arizona can answer your questions and discuss a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
