Facial lifting methods
As we age, many people begin searching for effective ways to lift and tighten their face, restoring firmness and a more youthful appearance. Today, there are multiple options to achieve a slimmer, more defined facial contour and improve skin elasticity. These range from medical procedures such as injectables and advanced lifting technologies like HIFU, Ulthera, and Thermage, all the way to surgical interventions.
For anyone considering facial lifting, we’ve summarized 10 effective methods — including their advantages and limitations — to help guide you in choosing the approach most suitable for your needs.
Table of content : Facial lifting
Facial lifting to restore youthfulness
Facial lifting is a treatment that helps restore a youthful appearance by reducing sagging of the face and neck. It improves facial proportions, smooths wrinkles, tightens the skin, and stimulates collagen and elastin production beneath the skin. This results in firmer, healthier-looking skin with a naturally youthful glow.
Facial lifting with medical procedures
(Dr.Wanyarat Sajjasakulchai .47920)
*Results from medical treatment may vary depending on the individual patient.
Apart from enhancing beauty and restoring youthfulness, facial lifting also improves self-confidence and quality of life. When the face looks firmer and younger, patients often feel more comfortable expressing themselves and enjoy better social interactions.
What causes skin sagging?
Skin sagging is the most common reason people seek facial lifting treatments. To choose the right method, it is important to first understand the underlying causes. Sagging skin can result from:
- Aging: The body produces less collagen and elastin over time, reducing skin elasticity and firmness. This natural decline leads to sagging caused by gravity.
- Sun exposure (UV rays): The most significant external factor that damages collagen structure, resulting in premature wrinkles and sagging skin.
- Hormonal changes: Especially during menopause, declining estrogen levels contribute to reduced skin firmness.
- Genetics and lifestyle factors: Poor skincare habits, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise all accelerate skin laxity.
These factors cause different degrees of sagging. Choosing the most effective and suitable lifting method depends on both the cause and the severity of the condition.
Choosing the right facial lifting method based on skin laxity
The degree of skin laxity plays a significant role in determining the most suitable facial lifting approach. Below are the four levels of changes that cause the skin to lose firmness, along with recommended treatments for each:
1. Dermis layer collagen breakdown
The dermis contains collagen and elastin as its main structural components. From the age of 20, collagen production naturally declines by about 1–1.5% per year. As collagen deteriorates, the skin loses elasticity, firmness, and the ability to return to its original shape, leading to fine lines and early-stage sagging.
Treatment approach: Stimulating collagen production in the dermis layer is key. Options include Sculptra, Radiesse, or energy-based devices such as Thermage, which help restore skin volume, improve firmness, and create a more youthful appearance.
2. SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) degeneration
The SMAS layer lies beneath the skin, consisting of facial muscles and connective tissue that support and anchor facial structures. When the SMAS weakens, facial muscles lose strength, and the connection between the skin and deeper structures loosens. This leads to deeper sagging, especially around the cheeks and neck.
Treatment approach: Devices that deliver energy directly to the SMAS layer are most effective, such as Ulthera and HIFU Ultraformer
3. Loss of subcutaneous fat (Volume loss)
Facial fat acts as natural cushioning that provides softness and youthful contours. With age, fat pads in areas like the cheeks, temples, and under the eyes gradually diminish. This loss of volume causes the face to look sunken, the skin to sag, and deep folds to appear, making the face look older.
Treatment approach: Restoring volume with Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers or biostimulator injectables can replenish lost fat pads, stimulate collagen production, and bring back firmness and a youthful appearance.
4. Bone resorption and structural changes
Facial bones act as the foundation that supports the skin and soft tissue. As we age, bone density gradually decreases, leading to resorption, especially in the orbital bone, cheekbones, and jawline. This weakens structural support, contributing to sagging, facial drooping, and an overall aged appearance.
Treatment approach: Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers can be injected to replace lost bone volume and provide support. This helps lift the overlying tissue, reduce sagging, and restore natural facial contours.
10 proven facial lifting methods
1. Sculptra – Stimulates collagen, lifts the face, and rejuvenates skin
Sculptra is an injectable collagen biostimulator made primarily from Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA). It is highly safe and works by stimulating the skin’s natural collagen production, helping to replace what has been lost with age. The result is firmer, plumper skin with a naturally youthful appearance. Sculptra is suitable for individuals aged 25 and above with mild to moderate skin laxity who want natural-looking results.
Advantages
- Stimulates natural collagen production.
- Provides natural-looking results.
- Results can last up to 2 years.
- Non-surgical treatment.
Limitations
- Requires 2–3 sessions, spaced one month apart.
- Gradual improvement; initial results appear at 3 weeks, with full effects in 3 months.
2. Radiesse – Fills wrinkles and provides natural facial lifting
Radiesse is a rejuvenating treatment composed of Calcium Hydroxylapatite microspheres (CaHA). It delivers immediate results while also stimulating new collagen production. The skin becomes firmer, plumper, and lifted, with wrinkles reduced for a more youthful look. It is ideal for those with moderate skin laxity who want both instant and long-lasting results.
Advantages
- Immediate visible results, with continued improvement over time.
- Stimulates new collagen production.
- Effective for both lifting and volume restoration.
- Results last up to 2 years.
Limitations
- Typically requires 1–3 sessions, spaced one month apart.
- Mild swelling may occur after injection but usually subsides within 2–3 days.
3. Thermage – Non-surgical facial lifting and contouring
Thermage uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to stimulate new collagen production, tightening the skin and effectively treating sagging. After treatment, the skin feels firmer, the face looks slimmer, and wrinkles are softened. Thermage is most suitable for individuals with mild to moderate sagging and facial fat who want noticeable results without surgery.
Advantages
- Non-surgical procedure.
- About 20% immediate improvement, with continued results over 2–3 months.
- Long-lasting effects up to 1–2 years.
- FDA-approved in both the U.S. and Thailand.
- Short procedure time with no downtime.
Limitations
- May cause mild discomfort during treatment.
- Best suited for patients with moderate facial fat (for thin faces or hollow areas, Ulthera may be a better option).
4. Ulthera – Precise lifting for firmer skin and sharper contours
Ulthera is the original High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology, designed to deliver precise and safe lifting by targeting deep layers of the skin, including the SMAS. It is effective for tightening sagging skin, reducing wrinkles, and restoring youthful firmness — without surgery.
Currently, there are two versions: Ulthera SPT and Ulthera Prime. Both deliver similar results, but Ulthera Prime features an improved design with a clearer display and faster processing system, enabling quicker energy delivery with reduced discomfort.
Advantages
- Accurately lifts by targeting the SMAS layer.
- FDA-approved in both the U.S. and Thailand.
- Results last up to 1 year.
- About 30% improvement is visible immediately.
- No downtime required.
Limitations
- May cause slight pain or tingling during treatment.
- Relatively higher cost, but only one session per year is usually sufficient.
5. HIFU-Ultraformer – Non-surgical facial lifting
HIFU-Ultraformer is a skin lifting device that delivers focused ultrasound energy into the deeper skin layers, generating heat that causes tissue contraction and tightening of the overlying skin. This stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles, firms the skin, and improves facial contour for a more youthful appearance.
Currently, there are two models: Ultraformer III and Ultraformer MPT. Both effectively lift sagging skin, but the Ultraformer MPT is the upgraded version with more cartridges and advanced energy patterns, providing broader treatment coverage. It is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate sagging who are looking for cost-effective results.
Advantages
- Penetrates deeply into the SMAS layer for effective facial lifting.
- More affordable than Ulthera.
- Can treat multiple areas: face, neck, and abdomen.
- No downtime required.
Limitations
- Results typically last about 6 months (shorter than Ulthera).
- Maintenance sessions every 3–6 months are recommended to prolong results.
6. Volnewmer – Facial lifting for firmer skin
Volnewmer is an advanced technology from South Korea that uses Monopolar Radiofrequency (RF) energy to stimulate collagen production, tighten skin, and rejuvenate the face, neck, and other areas — all without surgery.
Volnewmer helps generate new collagen, plumping and firming the skin while improving overall texture. It also enhances facial proportions, reduces pore size, and leaves the skin smoother and more youthful.
Advantages
- Stimulates collagen for firmer, tighter skin.
- Provides immediate lifting of about 20–30%, with gradual improvement over time.
- Results last 6–8 months.
- Non-surgical, no downtime.
- Minimal discomfort, with a Hydro Cooling System to reduce heat sensation.
- FDA-approved in the U.S., KFDA-approved in Korea, and certified in Thailand.
Limitations
- Temporary redness or mild swelling may occur, but it resolves naturally.
7. Botox – Facial lifting and contouring
Botox injections are a popular, affordable, and minimally invasive way to achieve facial lifting. Using specific injection techniques, Botox can lift the jawline and facial contours, giving the face a more defined, youthful appearance. Results typically become noticeable within 2 weeks.
There are two main Botox lifting techniques:
- Dermolift – Botox is injected upward along the jawline to tighten and lift the skin. This technique is best for quick results, but frequent use is not recommended as it may increase the risk of Botox resistance.
- Nefertiti lift – Botox is injected into the platysma muscles in the neck, which normally pull the skin downward. Once relaxed, the lifting muscles on the face become stronger, resulting in a naturally lifted and firmer appearance.
Advantages
- Quick results within 3–4 days.
- Short treatment time.
- Affordable cost.
Limitations
- Temporary results lasting about 3–4 months.
8. Filler – Facial lifting and restoring lost volume
Filler injections use Hyaluronic Acid (HA) as the main component to restore volume and support facial lifting. When combined with proper lifting techniques, fillers can redefine facial contours, improve symmetry, and deliver natural-looking results.
Advantages
- Immediate results with sharper contours and more definition.
- Adjustable outcomes for natural aesthetics.
- No downtime required.
Limitations
- Temporary effect; fillers naturally dissolve over 6–24 months.
9. Thread lifting (Non-surgical facelift with PDO threads)
Thread lifting is a minimally invasive treatment that uses barbed threads placed under the skin to lift and reposition sagging tissue, working like a sling to support the face. Results are visible immediately after the procedure, making it a popular choice for those seeking quick lifting effects.
However, outcomes depend heavily on the doctor’s expertise. Incorrect placement or poor facial analysis can result in suboptimal results.
Advantages
- Instant results, suitable for patients who want fast improvement.
- Stimulates collagen production for firmer skin.
- Relatively affordable.
- Can be combined with other treatments for enhanced outcomes.
Limitations
- Results last about 4–12 months, depending on the thread type.
- Possible side effects: swelling, bruising, inflammation.
- Highly technique-dependent; requires an experienced doctor for natural results.
10. Surgical facelift – Long-term facial lifting
A surgical facelift provides the most dramatic and long-lasting results for severe sagging. It is often recommended for patients over 50 who are comfortable with surgery, recovery time and want a permanent facial lifting solution.
Advantages
- Clear, long-lasting results.
- Corrects multiple aging concerns simultaneously.
Limitations
- Involves surgical risks.
- Higher cost.
- Longer recovery period.
- Potential scarring.
- Outcome depends largely on the surgeon’s skill.
Can natural facial lifting methods work?
Natural methods for facial lifting are safe, cost-effective alternatives. While they do not provide results as quickly or dramatically as medical treatments, they can help delay skin aging and serve as supportive care for overall skin health.
1. Facial yoga for skin tightening
Facial yoga exercises help lift and tone the face by strengthening facial muscles. A common exercise is the Satchmo pose, where you inflate one cheek with air, then switch to the other side, repeating 3 times. This alternation helps firm the cheek muscles and improve skin tightness.
2. Facial massage for circulation and lifting
Facial massage stimulates blood circulation and improves skin elasticity. Techniques involve pressing specific points such as the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and corners of the mouth — 4–5 presses per point, followed by circular movements. Palms are then used to massage upward from the chin to the ears and neck. This can be repeated 4–5 times. Professional facial massage at clinics may deliver even more noticeable lifting effects.
3. Gua Sha – Traditional Chinese lifting technique
Gua Sha uses a stone or scraping tool to gently massage along the facial meridians. This improves circulation, detoxifies the skin, and enhances brightness, firmness, and lifting.
Note: If performed incorrectly, Gua Sha may worsen sagging, particularly around the eyelids, leading to drooping skin.
4. Firming creams for hydration and collagen support
Firming creams containing Retinol, Vitamin C, Peptides, and Hyaluronic Acid can help reduce wrinkles, hydrate the skin, and stimulate collagen production. They are widely available, from general skincare to age-specific firming creams.
However, visible results usually take at least 3–4 months of consistent use, and topical creams cannot address deeper causes of sagging, such as bone resorption.
5. Drinking water to delay sagging
Proper hydration improves skin elasticity and reduces dryness-related wrinkles. While water alone cannot directly lift the face, it helps slow down sagging by supporting healthy skin function.
Recommendation: Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day and eat antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to boost collagen production and maintain youthful skin.
6. Getting enough rest to repair skin and reduce sagging
Adequate rest is one of the simplest ways to keep the skin firm and delay sagging. During proper sleep, the body produces growth hormones that repair skin cells, slowing the formation of wrinkles and laxity. It is recommended to sleep at least 7–8 hours per night for optimal skin rejuvenation.
Which facial lifting method delivers the fastest results?
Choosing the right facial lifting method depends on several factors:
- Severity of skin concerns: For mild wrinkles, natural methods or injectables like Botox for wrinkle reduction and jawline lift can improve skin smoothness. For moderate sagging, HIFU, Ulthera, or Sculptra are recommended to stimulate collagen. For severe sagging requiring permanent results, a surgical facelift is the best option.
- Budget: Natural methods are the most affordable but provide limited results. Injectable options such as Botox and filler, or device-based treatments like HIFU, offer more visible outcomes. Patients with higher budgets and advanced sagging can benefit from Sculptra combined with Ulthera or other energy-based devices.
- Timeline for results: For immediate effects, filler injections or thread lifting provide fast, noticeable changes.
- Safety: Natural methods are the safest, followed by injectables and energy devices. Surgery carries the highest risk.
- Longevity of results: Sculptra combined with HIFU, Ulthera, Volnewmer, or Thermage typically provides long-lasting improvement, while fillers and Botox need periodic maintenance.
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For safe, effective, and worthwhile results, we recommend consulting with an experienced doctor. During consultation, your skin condition, personal goals, and budget will be assessed to design the most suitable facial lifting plan.
Facial lifting reviews at V Square Clinic
FAQ – Common questions about facial lifting
Which facial lifting treatment is the most painful — HIFU, Ulthera, or Thermage?
- HIFU: Produces a warm sensation beneath the skin during treatment, with minimal discomfort.
- Ulthera: Generally more painful than the others, as its transducers deliver energy deeper into the SMAS layer.
- Thermage: Feels like a snapping or tapping sensation caused by heat, but usually not very painful.
For all three facial lifting procedures, numbing cream is applied beforehand to minimize discomfort, so they can be performed without major concern about pain.
Can both women and men undergo facial lifting treatments?
Yes, both women and men can benefit from the facial lifting treatments described in this article. The main difference lies in technique and desired outcome: women often prefer a softer, more refined look, while men usually want a sharper jawline, reduced double chin, and a more defined facial structure. Treatments are tailored to suit each individual’s needs.
Conclusion – Multiple facial lifting options based on skin condition
When considering facial lifting, the first step is to identify your personal goals — whether you want subtle improvement or fast, visible results. Consulting with an experienced doctor is essential to analyze your skin condition and determine the most suitable treatment.
For those who want noticeable results quickly and with minimal downtime, options such as HIFU, Thermage, Ulthera, Botox, filler, or thread lift are excellent choices that address different levels of skin laxity and rejuvenation needs.
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