| • Minimally-Invasive Therapies
While the list of catchy brand names used to market minimally-invasive treatments grows almost monthly, the procedures generally included in this grouping of non-surgical therapies include botulinum toxin, injectable fillers, radiofrequency energy, and non-ablative lasers.
Each is discussed in some detail in the Insider's Guide to Blepharoplasty.
• Do They Work?
Neurotoxins will indeed paralyze nerve and muscle, and injected fillers will indeed add tissue volume. For some minor problems (for instance, frown lines), they offer the best means of treatment.
Radiofrequency energy, non-ablative lasers, and pulsed light treatments are a bit more "iffy." Most patients do note some modest benefit, but others claim almost no help at all.
Why undergo a procedure that offers the potential for minimal improvement at best? Heavily marketed, such seemingly painless and effortless approaches can seem irresistibly appealing.
• Are They Effective Alternatives to Eyelid Surgery?
The short answer is "no," but of course it all depends upon what condition you are seeking to change, how much help your eyelids require to look better, and whether you are willing to settle for "understated" and temporary results . . . |
