Deciding to get plastic surgery can feel overwhelming and requires careful consideration of many different factors. Whether you’re looking to enhance your facial features, redefine your jawline, or address signs of aging, selecting the right procedure is crucial to achieving your desired results. This extensive guide will walk you through what to look for when choosing the best facial plastic surgery procedure for your needs.
1. Define What You Want to Change
Start by getting specific about your goals. Ask yourself:
- Are you hoping to look younger or more refreshed?
- Do you want to improve balance or symmetry in your face?
- Is there a feature (like your nose or chin) you want to enhance or correct?
- Are you concerned about sagging, volume loss, or fat under the chin?
Pro Tip: Bring photos of yourself at a younger age or inspirational examples to your consultation. These can help your surgeon better understand your desired outcome.
2. Compare Facial Plastic Surgery Options Based on Your Goals
Different procedures target different concerns. Here’s a breakdown of common options available at Synergy Face + Body by Dr. Travis Shaw—including what they’re best for:
| Procedure | Best For |
|---|---|
| Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) | Tired or aging eyes, excess skin, undereye bags |
| Submental Liposuction | Double chin, lack of jawline definition |
| Rhinoplasty + Septoplasty | Nose size, shape, symmetry, breathing issues |
| MyEllevate (Minimally Invasive Lift) | Sagging under the chin and jawline, mild to moderate laxity |
| Chin Implant | Weak chin, improving profile balance, enhancing jawline projection |
3. Considering Recovery Time and Downtime
One of the most important factors in your decision is how much recovery time you can realistically manage:
| Procedure | Typical Downtime | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blepharoplasty | 7–10 days | Bruising and swelling may take up to 2 weeks to resolve |
| Submental Lipo | 3–5 days | Compression garment may be needed for a few days |
| Rhinoplasty | 10–14 days | Final results take months to settle |
| MyEllevate | 1–3 days | Minimal bruising, often combined with lipo for best results |
| Chin Implant | 5–7 days | May include temporary facial tightness or swelling |
If you have a tight schedule, a special event coming up, or don’t want visible downtime, minimally invasive procedures may be the better fit.
4. Longevity of Results
| Procedure | How Long Results Last | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Blepharoplasty | 7–10 years or more (depends on skin quality and aging process) | Good skincare, sun protection; repeat procedure possible later if desired |
| Submental Liposuction | Permanent removal of existing fat; future weight gain can deposit new fat | Maintain stable weight and healthy lifestyle |
| Rhinoplasty + Septoplasty | Effectively permanent once swelling fully resolves (6–12 months) | Protect nose from trauma; minor touch-ups rare |
| MyEllevate (Minimally Invasive Lift) | 3–5 years on average; gradual laxity returns with natural aging | Skin-tightening treatments (e.g., Ultherapy) can extend lift |
| Chin Implant | Permanent (implant remains in place); can be exchanged or removed if desired | Rarely needs revision; maintain stable weight |
Note: “Permanent” in cosmetic surgery means the change stays until you choose otherwise or until extreme aging—routine healthy living helps your results last longer.
5. Know the Risks—And How to Minimize Them
Every procedure comes with potential risks such as infection, scarring, or unsatisfactory results. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Follow pre- and post-op instructions carefully to support healing
- Choose a board-certified facial plastic surgeon (like Dr. Travis Shaw)
- Ask about complication rates and revision policies
Make sure you’re a good candidate based on your medical history.
6. Don’t Skip the Consultation
No online guide can replace a personalized, in-depth consultation. Your surgeon should:
- Evaluate your facial anatomy and skin quality
- Understand your medical history and concerns
- Recommend the most appropriate procedures for your goals
- Show you before-and-after photos of similar cases
- Discuss costs, financing, and what’s realistic
Conclusion
The “right” facial plastic surgery procedure depends on more than just what’s trending—it depends on you. Your facial structure, your lifestyle, your aesthetic goals, and your timeline all play a role.
At Synergy Face + Body, we help you find a plan that works for you, whether it’s a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation. If you’re curious about what’s possible, scheduling a consultation is the best first step.
Common Questions We Hear
Q: What is the most popular facial plastic surgery?
A: Rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty are consistently among the most requested. However, minimally invasive procedures like MyEllevate are growing in popularity due to lower downtime.
Q: Can I combine multiple procedures?
A: Yes. Many patients combine treatments (e.g., chin implant + submental lipo or rhinoplasty + septoplasty) for more dramatic and harmonious results.
Q: How long do results last?
A: It depends on the procedure—some last years or even decades, while others (like liposuction or implants) are considered permanent. Lifestyle and skincare also play a role.
