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4 Expensive Cosmetic Procedures and Their More Affordable Counterparts

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Americans (both women and men) spend tens of billions or dollars each year on cosmetic procedures – both surgical and non-surgical. Some of the most popular (and most expensive) cosmetic procedures include breast reductions/augmentations, facelifts, lower body lifts, and tummy tucks. This is why plastic surgeons are some of the highest paid doctors.

However, not everyone can afford these cosmetic procedures – even the ones that may be necessary for one’s health (such as breast reduction surgery). The good news is that there are more affordable, nonsurgical options to many common cosmetic procedures.

Blepharoplasty vs dermal fillers

A blepharoplasty is the surgery of the eyelids. During this procedure, also known as droopy eyelid surgery, a plastic surgeon cuts into the creases of the eyelids to remove excess fat and correct sagging skin – which makes it difficult to wear makeup, such as eye shadow, eyeliner, and mascara. Sometimes the under eyes are corrected surgically as well. The average cost for surgery on the eyelids is around $3,000. 

If the reason for eyelid surgery is medical or for better functioning (such as being able to see clearly), then it’s covered by most insurance plans. However, it is not if it’s simply for cosmetic purposes, which is why many people focus more on their under eyes.  Dermal fillers, the more affordable alternative, is an injection of collagen or hyaluronic acid to reduce folds and wrinkles. They can be inexpensive ($450) or more pricey ($1,700), depending on the filler.

Brow lift/facelift vs botox

A facelift is a surgical cosmetic procedure that lifts up and pulls the skin on the face to make the face appear smoother and tighter. The average cost of a full facelift is over $8,000, which is probably why some people choose a brow lift or forehead lift, which costs about $3,400 on average. Either way, lifting any part of the face to smooth out sagging skin and wrinkles is pretty pricey.

Because lifting any part of the face is expensive, this could be why Botox is popular. Botox (botulinum toxin) is a toxin that is injected into the face to paralyse the muscles temporarily. It’s also used for certain medical conditions, such as migraines. Instead of spending thousands of dollars on a facelift, you’ll spend (on average) $400 on each Botox session.

Neck lift vs thread lift

Also known as platysmaplasty or a rhytidectomy, a neck lift is a surgical procedure that removes signs of ageing on the neck and jawline. The procedure takes several hours as a plastic surgeon carefully lifts the neck muscles and removes fat and extra skin, making the neck look more firm and youthful. The average cost of a neck lift is close to $6,000.

Thread lifts, on the other hand, use temporary sutures to help lift the skin, giving the same effect as a neck lift or facelift. They’re more affordable than neck lifts and full face lifts but can range from $1,500 to $4,500. Botox and dermal fillers can also be used on the neck to tighten and smooth out wrinkles.

Non-surgical facelifts are becoming very popular so it’s essential you  know exactly what you’ve done, we recommend visiting 
https://www.skinandmedicalcosmetics.co.uk/treatments/non-surgical-facelift/ for more information on the procedure.

Veneers vs clip-on veneers

Skin isn’t the only thing that people spend thousands of dollars on to correct; teeth are another thing. More commonly, people get veneers, which are thin porcelain coverings for teeth. They’re used to correct broken, chipped/cracked, crooked, and/or gapped teeth. Costing anywhere from $250 to $1,500 per tooth, an orthodontist shaves down the natural teeth before permanently adhering the veneers.

A more affordable alternative would be clip-on veneers, which cost about $600 for a full set (top and bottom), versus $600 (or more) per tooth. They’re also removable – yet fully functional – so you don’t have to worry about having your natural teeth shaved down and permanently attaching porcelain to them. However, you should keep in mind that even though they look natural, they’re not as durable as true porcelain veneers.

Keep in mind that the more affordable options may not work for everyone, but it’s still worth it to try the inexpensive option before trying the more expensive option. When it comes to cosmetic procedures affecting the face, remember that a good and consistent skincare routine can help your skin retain its youthful and glowing appearance, both before and after a cosmetic procedure. The same goes for veneers: it’s important to practice good dental hygiene both with and without them.


David Tobin did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.

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© Copyright 2014–2023 Psychreg Ltd