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In today’s social media age (and the constant usage of beauty filters), the desire to capture your angles and achieve your best selfie is at an all time high. If you find yourself yearning for a well-balanced, more contoured facial structure without having to go under the knife then maybe a facial balancing treatment is just the trick to achieve the mug of your dreams.
This non-invasive cosmetic procedure subtly addresses imperfections in areas such as the jawline, cheekbones, and hairline. Still need more convincing? Luckily, we’ve called on a team of experts for a comprehensive breakdown of all things facial balancing — from best practices to cost and projected downtime. Have no fear! Ahead is the gateway to putting your best (symmetrical) facecard forward.
What is Facial Balancing?
According to board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs skin cancer surgeon, Dr. Sheila Farhang, “Facial balancing refers to cosmetic enhancements that help with symmetry and facial proportions”. And get this – the cosmetic treatment calls for minimal downtime. Despite the reemergence in popularity, the procedure has been around for decades.
“Facial balancing has become popular because it is not as invasive as larger treatments like rhinoplasty or a surgical face lift,” says board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology, Dr. Corey L. Hartman. Many patients rave about feeling like a refreshed, youthful version of themselves after undergoing just one treatment.
“Facial balancing is all about using ‘phi’ the golden ratio, to get the face closer to ideal proportions and angles,” explains board-certified, fellowship-trained dermatologist, Dr. Jessie Cheung. “This is achieved by injecting fillers on a more holistic level as opposed to injecting just one area of the face,” explains board-certified dermatologist, researcher, and the founder of Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in NYC, Dhaval G. Bhanusali, MD FAAD. It is a very easy and a relatively safe approach to create a long-lasting filtered effect.
“If you love your filtered selfie, fillers can be injected to recreate the same aesthetically pleasing contours, highlights, and shadows,” adds Dr. Cheung. When done correctly by a licensed professional, the intent of facial balancing is for patients to walk away with a very natural, symmetric facial structure without overdoing it.” It can truly transform someone and allow them to still look like themselves,” explains Dr. Bhanusali.
Who is The Best Candidate for Facial Balancing?
Like most injectable treatments, facial balancing is not a one-size-fits all procedure. It’s important to consult with a licensed dermatologist before undergoing treatment to ensure that your needs are met. “While any adult is suited for facial balancing with filler as they have completely grown into their natural genetic features, post-puberty — facial balancing is usually most effective for patients starting to see the aging process in their 30s up until their 80s,” explains Dr. Farhang.
Treatments are customizable to patients depending on their facial features, types of filler being used, and the patient’s desired goal. “Patients that can benefit the most from facial balancing usually battle with mild to moderate asymmetry in the face, typically around the nose, lips, chin and forehead areas,” says Dr. Hartman.
How Long Does a Face Balancing Procedure Last?
“Treatments last anywhere from 1-1.5 years with minor maintenance touch ups needed,” shares Dr. Bhanusali. Although the full lifespan of a facial balancing treatment is a year or more, Dr. Cheung advises patients to check-in with their dermatologist periodically for possible tweaks as a person’s age, stressors, and overall lifestyle can play a role in whether or not maintenance is required.
According to all of the dermatologists polled, there is a very small chance of major swelling or bruising post-procedure and many patients achieve their desired look in just one session. “I have witnessed many of my patients come in for treatment in the morning and return to work in the afternoon,” adds Dr.Hartman.
What are the Pros and Cons of Facial Balancing Using Fillers?
Pros: Aside from the fact that facial balancing is non-surgical and highly customizable treatment, many derms and patients marvel over the procedure for its flawless results. “Major pros of facial balancing treatments is that they are on the lower end price-wise compared to larger surgical procedures, making the treatment more accessible, plus, patients really enjoy the natural looking results,” says Dr. Hartman. Another green flag is that the majority of the filler used is reversible if a patient is not satisfied with their results. “A lot of the fillers used for balancing treatments are hyaluronic acid based that can easily be dissolved,” adds Dr.Farhang.
Cons: Yes, there is typically very little downtime but there is still a slight chance for light swelling and temporary bruising to occur in the days following your appointment. “I advise patients to stay away from applying makeup to the injected areas for a day after their treatment. Also, refrain from facial massages and the usage of skincare tools like a gua sha stone on the face for 3-5 days post-treatment,” explains Dr. Hartman.
For patients that still experience light bruising, Dr. Cheung has a few remedies to quickly banish their appearance. “We use lasers to zap bruises away, LED light therapy to reduce swelling and bruising. I also recommend arnica, antihistamines, prednisone and water pills to help reduce downtime,” she adds.
The last but arguably most important con to consider before scheduling a treatment is to ensure that you are receiving services from a licensed medical physician. “Some people think they can see an esthetician for this type of treatment,” says Dr. Hartman. “For the best results, it is highly recommended that you see a trained MD,” he says.
How to Achieve the Best Results?
Garnering optimal results is all in how you prep your skin pre-procedure and treat your skin post-appointment. You want to be sure to use mild cleansers on your face and refrain from harsh acids within the week leading up to your appointment. “Also, be sure to avoid anything that may contribute to swelling such as heavy cardio and saunas,” advises Cheung. “It is always best to avoid blood thinners during the week leading up to your treatment – this includes alcohol, aspirin, Motrin, Advil, fish oil, gingko, and vitamin E,” she adds.
Also, reduce your alcohol in-take in the days leading up and days following to further prevent swelling and/or bruising. It is also recommended to avoid getting dental work within 3-4 days following your appointment as there is a greater risk of causing infection. For added precaution, Dr. Hartman advises patients to sleep on their back for 1-2 nights after treatment, as not to run the risk of migrating the filler.
What is a Common Price Range for a Treatment?
The price tag for face balancing varies based on the area of the face being treated, the amount of filler being used, and the number of treatments needed. For one facial balancing treatment to correct mild asymmetry, patients can expect to pay $500 – $750,” says Dr. Hartman. He goes on to add that moderate cases typically range from $1500 – $1800 or more per treatment. According to Dr. Cheung and Dr. Farhang, if a patient is seeking a full-face optimization, costs can range from $3,000-$6,000.
Mild Cleansers to Shop
Biossance Squalane + Amino Aloe Gentle Pore-Minimizing Cleanser
Caudalie Vinoclean Gentle Foam Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser for Dry Skin
Obagi Medical Nu-Derm Gentle Cleanser
Chelsea Hall is a fashion and beauty writer based in New York City.