Two Girlfriends Get Real About—Fillers, Fillers, and More Fillers

Last month we touched on “quick fixes” for rejuvenation. We promised to delve deeper into the choices and possibilities for looking younger without surgery. So here it goes!

Dear 2GGR:

Is there really such a thing as a “liquid facelift”? — Anonymous

SAM:

Yes…in a way. A “liquid facelift” is when injectable fillers—Restylane, Artefill, and Radiesse (our favorites), Perlane, Juvederm, Sculptra, Boletero, or fat transplantation—and neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport are used to add fullness, lift, and rejuvenation to the face without surgery. This is much more involved than plumping up the usual targets for fillers: the “11s” between the brows and the smile lines. Listen, Girlfriends, what we’re talking about here is a total contouring of the face. In the right hands, this can be a VERY effective “uplift” for those not interested in surgery. The downside is that the amount of fillers needed can be very pricey. In fact, the cost can be half that of a facelift or more, and injections must be repeated after a time to keep the same look. On the upside—the results can be amazing!!!!

CHARLEE:

I don’t know anything about liquid facelifts, but I sure can testify about the joys and heartbreaks of fillers. All my life, being nearsighted and light-sensitive, I’ve had a squint to rival Mr. Magoo’s. By the time I was twenty-five I had frown lines as deep as the Grand Canyon. No lie. I looked as if I was worried and/or scowling 24/7. I leaped on the collagen bandwagon way back in the 1990s. One treatment lasted only 48 hours but I was paying off my AmEx card for months. Then I tried getting my own butt fat injected into my face (my butt had plenty to share). That “filler” only lasted a few weeks, but left me a permanent dent in my derriere. Thank goodness times have changed! Botox (to stop the frowning) and Restylane (to fill the grooves) have erased the frown for nearly a year now. The results are magical. Poof the deep wrinkles vanished. I’m Mr. Magoo no more…and I look at least a decade younger.

The 2GGR summary for fillers taken to the nth degree–or a “liquid facelift”

Down time: A good one to two weeks (expect a lot of swelling)

Longevity: It depends! Each filler is different. Each person is different. Results can vary from as short as 6 months to as long as a few years. You won’t know until you try it.

Affordability: Getting some Botox and filler won’t break the bank, but a real liquid lift? Sell the family silver.

Wow Factor: A great liquid lift will make you look fantastic, but the effect will be subtle, beautiful, and as if you are glowing with good health. People will say you look great, but no one will ever guess why. Perfecto!

Today’s 2GGR motto: Aging gracefully and beautifully requires maintenance. Yes, Girlfriends, just like your car or your house, you need maintenance!

Next month: “Is Bigger Better? All about breast enlargement!” Send your questions to: 2GGR@Collini.com