WSVN -- For dogs, a droopy face is considered cute.
However, when it comes to humans, saggy can be unsightly.
Marianne Rael: "I looked in the mirror, and I would see my cheeks were sagging, my neck was sagging."
Norma Blum: "The sagging skin because as you age, your muscles don't have the power to hold up anymore."
But if going under the knife doesn't cut it, there are other options.
The FDA has recently approved two new treatments to firm up the skin without any down time.
At the Miami Institute, doctors are practicing the Aluma system.
In 30 minutes, it heats the skin, so old collagen breaks down and new, smoother collagen takes its place.
Jelenia Petkovic: "So the overall effect is tighter and more lifted skin."
Most patients have to undergo six to eight treatments.
But the process is painless as long as you don't overheat afterwards.
Jelenia Petkovic: "Avoid any sort of sauna, hot shower or bath and no direct sunlight for 48 hours."
Plus, you can use Aluma on other body parts.
Trainer Melissa Gaboury is impressed with what it did to her abs.
Melissa Gaboury: "I don't have the lines, like the skin aging, and the texture looks better and healthier."
Another way to look healthier is by trying Refirme.
Dr. Will Richardson in Fort Lauderdale was one of the first to get this laser.
It works by combining electrical energy and infrared light to promote new collagen.
Dr. Will Richardson: "The way the laser is used is we pass it across the face in certain patterns so these tight tissue bands are created that will lift the neck, lift the jowl, lift the cheek area."
To get the full effect, patients should expect to receive about five treatments.
Anybody can do it, unless you're pregnant or have a pacemaker.
But most will agree, once you look in the mirror it's worth it.
Marianne Rael: "My biggest benefit is definitely my neck. I'm really impressed with the way my neck tightened up."
Best of all, both procedures are almost always permanent, promising to lift your skin and your spirits.
Norma Blum: "I'm much more pleased with my appearance. It seems to be tightening up all the areas."
Both treatments cost about $2000 to $2500. That's half of what a facelift costs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
The Miami Institute for Age Management and Intervention
1441 Brickell Avenue
The Four Seasons Hotel and Tower
Third Floor, Sky Lobby
Miami, FL 33131
305-624-0009
Dr. Will Richardson
800 East Broward Blvd. Suite 507
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-763-4331
