As masks disappear, facial rejuvenation requests rise again

The post-pandemic effect is clearly visible in the world of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. As masks progressively disappear from daily life, there has been a true “rush” toward cosmetic procedures—especially those focused on facial rejuvenation. Showing a youthful face, now that it is no longer hidden behind a mask, has become a priority for many men and women in Italy. The end of the state of emergency is perceived as a psychological “rebirth,” prompting the desire to improve facial features that do not make us feel fully comfortable.

Italian cosmetic surgeons confirm a steady increase in requests for treatments that make the face smoother and more radiant as summer holidays approach.

The most requested procedures? Lips, nose, chin, neck and cheekbones. Among the most innovative facial lifting techniques—less invasive and longer-lasting than the classic lift—is the Composite Minilift. It offers fewer risks, faster recovery, and effective improvement of cheeks, neck and cheekbones. The procedure is performed in day hospital under local anesthesia with sedation.

There is also growing interest in facial micro-implants for cheekbones, nose and lips. These tiny medical-grade implants help rejuvenate and harmonize facial features in a minimally invasive way.

This is also the ideal time to refresh not only the face and neck but all sun-exposed areas that may appear more fragile. How? With microinjections containing hyaluronic acid and vitamins, which restore hydration, luminosity and smoothness. Biostimulation is particularly effective on the neck, décolleté and face, with visible improvements in 2–3 sessions (spaced 20–30 days apart).

To further stimulate skin cells, the Dermapen (micro-needles on a rotating device, without anesthesia) offers visible results from the very first session and is ideal for treating wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid fillers in various concentrations and botulinum toxin remain essential tools to enhance volume.

Even younger patients turn to cosmetic procedures when they feel their skin looks tired and dull. For young but stressed skin, a vitamin-, amino acid- and hyaluronic acid–based mesotherapy treatment is recommended. Another highly effective option is Ultherapy, a sophisticated FDA-approved technology using micro-focused ultrasound to provide a lifting-like effect without surgery.

However, any cosmetic procedure must be combined with a healthy lifestyle to maintain results: avoid smoking, sleep adequately, exercise, maintain good hydration and nutrition, and avoid excessive stress on both body and mind. Summer is an excellent moment to reset habits, taking advantage of time away from work-related stress and urban pollution—both major contributors to skin aging.

by Maria Serena Patriarca