Ask the Experts

You ask the questions and we get the answers from the top practitioners in their field...

For over a decade, leading oral & maxillofacial surgeon Dr Stavros Eleftheriou MD FIACS (www.surgicalart.co.uk) has performed facial reconstruction surgery. Frustrated by 'jack of all trade' surgeons dabbling in facial surgery, he moved into the area of cosmetic face and neck rejuvenation. Offering ground-breaking and highly-skilled techniques at his boutique surgical clinic in Cyprus, Dr Eleftheriou's reputation as 'the face and neck man' has quickly grown, with his skills being sought by patients all over Europe. In much demand as a lecturer on the international conference circuit, Dr Eleftheriou's sympathetic approach to face and neck lifts, and his desire to offer the best service possible, means he is a much sought-after surgeon in his field. Dr Eleftheriou consults at 117 Harley Street, London.

Q: I am 56 and very bothered by saggy jowls. I have been told about Thermage but would a facelift produce a better result:

Dr Stavros Eleftheriou: "A Thermage has earned its place as one of the non-invasive ways to tighten skin, however, in my experience, results can be variable with improvements in tone lasting two to five years and treatment can be costly. In my opinion, if you are keen to find a non-surgical solution then fractional CO2 laser resurfacing gives better value for money - skin can be tightened with one or two sessions, fending off the "need" for surgery.

Of course, cost is an issue but it should not be and overriding factor when seeking plastic surgery; a surgical facelift will last around ten years - longer if you maintain it well and can be seen as a more cost-effective solution. Keep in mind that surgery is a big step.

There are several effective surgical options for removing jowls and, of these, one of my favorite techniques is the minimal scar facelift, often combined with a bit of liposuction to the neck. This innovative approach gives very predictable results leaving the jaw with a smooth, natural contour and tightens the upper neck reducing any signs of 'turkey neck', all incisions are hidden behind and around the ear and in the hairline.

Maintaining your facelift is vital to get the best from it and I think this is where non-invasive treatments come in.

Skin resurfacing is the key with lasers making a huge difference - both fractional CO2 and Fraxel help keep the skin in optimum condition by essentially boosting collagen levels and elasticity.