The desire for a more sculpted, V-shaped face has led to a surge in popularity for non-surgical facial slimming procedures. From masseter injections and fillers, and treatments like thread lifting, these treatments offer a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods. But are they truly safe? Let’s delve into the common procedures and their associated risks.
Masseter Botox Injections for Facial Slimming
One of the most popular non-surgical facial slimming treatments is Botox. By temporarily relaxing the masseter muscles, which are found at the back of your jawline and are responsible for chewing, Botox can reduce their size and create a slimmer jawline. While generally considered safe, Botox injections can carry risks such as:
- Bruising: This is a common side effect that typically resolves within a few days.
- Smile weakness: This is uncommon, but resolves in a few weeks.
Dermal Fillers for Facial Slimming
Dermal fillers can be used to create a more defined chin, jawline and cheekbones, contributing to a slimmer facial appearance. While they are generally safe, potential risks include:
- Infection: If the injection site is not properly cared for, there is a risk of infection.
- Reactions: Some people may have reactions to the ingredients in dermal fillers. This is very rare with newer dermal filler formulations.
- Overcorrection: If too much filler is injected, it can create an unnatural or overfilled appearance.
Ultherapy for Facial Lifting
Ultherapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. While it claims to help to improve facial contours, it may not be suitable for everyone, and results are typically very subtle. Potential risks include:
- Discomfort: The procedure can be somewhat painful.
- Temporary redness or swelling: These side effects are common and typically resolve within a few days.
- Uneven results: In rare cases, Ultherapy can result in uneven tightening of the skin.
- Facial fat loss: Ultherapy has been reported to cause too much facial fat loss in some cases, causing a skeletal appearance.
Thread Lifts for Facial Slimming
Thread lifts involve inserting thin threads beneath the skin to lift and tighten sagging facial tissue. While they are great for treating a fuller face caused by sagging, they are somewhat unreliable, and have a range of risks which include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection if the threads are not inserted properly.
- Thread migration: The threads may migrate or become visible through the skin.
- Dimpling: In some cases, dimpling or unevenness can occur.
Key Considerations for Safety
To minimise the risks associated with non-surgical facial slimming procedures, it is important to:
- Choose a qualified practitioner: Ensure that your provider has experience and expertise in the specific procedure you are considering.
- Discuss your medical history: Inform your practitioner about any allergies, medications, or underlying health conditions.
- Follow post-procedure care instructions: Adhering to your provider’s recommendations can help prevent complications and ensure optimal results.
- Be realistic about expectations: Understand that non-surgical procedures may not provide permanent results, and there may be some limitations to what can be achieved.
While non-surgical facial slimming procedures can be a safe and effective way to achieve a more youthful and sculpted appearance, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. By working with a qualified practitioner and following proper care guidelines, you can minimise the likelihood of complications and enjoy the desired results.
