Anything but the Knife: Nonsurgical Facial Plastic Surgery

Deborah Watson, MD, FACS

David B. Hom, MD, FACS

Facial plastic surgical procedures have increasingly embraced more minimally invasive options over the last two decades. Consumers are interested in shorter or simpler treatments that are more cost-effective. In addition, patients have become more focused on maximizing their overall comfort, decreasing the post-procedural recovery time, and returning to normal activity levels sooner than later. In this issue of Facial Plastic Surgery, we have asked colleagues from several disciplines to share their expertise on how they are improving the appearance of the aging face using a variety of nonsurgical methods. The minimally invasive procedures described in this collection of articles encompass a wide range of techniques that improve facial appearance at various anatomical levels (dermis, subcutaneous tissue, adipose tissue, and muscle) without using a scalpel.

The goal of this journal issue is to lead the reader through targeted techniques that are considered safe, effective, and have some evidence of longevity. From all our experience, we have found that the benefit of these procedures is frequently associated with excellent patient satisfaction and, consequently, increased quality of life. These parameters are some of the main metrics by which surgeons can conclude that a treatment is a success.

As guest co-editors, it has truly been a pleasure covering this contemporary and evolving topic in facial plastic surgery. We would like to sincerely thank our esteemed article authors for sharing their expertise. We hope this issue will be both informative and enjoyable.