As the years pass, we learn that gravity is not always our friend. It pulls our skin downward, making us look older. it's especially noticeable in the face and neck. When we add exposure to sunlight and other invironmental elements, the problem is exacerbated. Also, as we age, collagen fibers in the skin begin to break down, and we lose much of the skin's elesticity.

There are hundreds of products on the market that claim to eleimate or minimize wrinkles and to tighten the skin. unfortunately, even if a product works, it only functions as a short-term solution. The only way to get lasting results is from a facelift.

A traditional facelift involves moderate scarring, recovery time, and expense. It also requires general anesthesia, increasing the danger of undergoing the procedure. Today, however, there are several options to the traditional full facelift. Some of the more popular ones are briefly discussed below:

Lifestyle Lift: This procedure removes excess skin and fat from the jowls and neck. It is especially effective for defining the jaw line. Sutures under the skin are used for the lift. The Lifestyle lift is often recommended for those over the age of 40. Results vary. Some patients' lifts lasted for only eighteen months, while others lasted for several years. The average cost is $4,000-$6,000.

Anterior mini lift: This procedure removes fat and tightens skin and muscle tissue in the lower facial area, from an incision in front of the ear. Excess skin is also removed, and underlying muscle tissue is re-shaped. Deep sutures enable facial structures to lift. The surgery takes from 45-90 minutes and costs from $3,500-$6,500. Effects are noticed after a few weeks and can last for 5-7 years.

Posterior mini lift: With this procedure, anesthesia is injected behind the ear, where the incision is made. The skin is pulled up and secured with deep sutures. Excess skin is removed. The surgery takes 45-90 minutes and lasts for 5-7years, depending on the individual. The average cost is $3,500-$6,500 in the United States.

QuickLift: This procedure is often referred to as the "weekend facelift" because it's possible to have the surgery on Friday and return to work on Monday. It's recommended for ages 40-65 and uses a tiny S-shaped incision that begins at the sideburn area and extends around the ear lobe. Underlying muscle and connective tissue is stretched upward and held into place with purse-like sutures. Excess skin is removed in the 1-2 hour surgery. Same day results can be seen in the upper neck and jaw line. The average cost is around $4,500, and depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure, the results can last for several years.

Threadlift: This procedure is recommended for ages 40-60. A tiny incision is made behind the ear or at the hairline, and filaments are inserted that trigger the body to produce new collagen in the focal area. The affected area is also lifted as a result of tiny "hooks" on the threads. The Threadlift can be used for the brows, the neck, or the jowl area. The average cost in the US is $3,500-$5,000. Results typically last for 2-5 years.

Before having a procedure done, be sure to check out the doctor's qualifications. Ask to see before and after photos. If you can talk to patients who have had the specific precedure performed by that doctor, that's even better.