Common Questions
Non-Surgical Face Lift FAQ
Straight answers about facial tightening, EMFACE, results, cost and whether these treatments are right for you.
Everything You'd Like to Know
Questions, answered honestly
If your question isn't here, call us at (508) 687-9950 — we're happy to talk it through with no obligation.
General
Yes. Every treatment in the Vineyard Glow Protocol™ — EMFACE®, LipLase® and Fotona laser — is completely non-invasive. There are no needles, no synthetic fillers, no Botox and no incisions. We work with your body's own collagen and muscle tone to restore natural firmness and lift.
A surgical facelift removes and repositions tissue under anesthesia, with weeks of recovery. Non-surgical facial tightening does not cut or remove anything — it strengthens the muscles that lift your face and stimulates collagen so your skin firms up on its own. The trade-off is honest: surgery produces a more dramatic change and non-surgical treatment produces a natural, gradual improvement with no downtime and far less risk.
No. Because nothing is injected or pulled, results read as rested rather than altered. The most common feedback our patients get is some version of “you look great — did you get away somewhere?”
Pricing depends on which treatments you need and how many sessions we recommend, so we quote it at your consultation rather than guessing online. We will give you a clear total before you commit to anything, and there is no obligation to book.
Treatment & Results
Most patients see their best results after a series of six EMFACE treatments, typically scheduled over several weeks. LipLase and Fotona laser series are usually shorter. At your consultation, Dr. Karen Gear will design a personalised plan based on your goals, your skin and your schedule.
Many patients notice a difference partway through their series, with the fullest effect appearing in the weeks after the final session as collagen matures and muscle tone builds. Results typically hold for months, and periodic maintenance sessions help sustain them — much like exercise, the effect keeps best when it is topped up.
Treatments are gentle and relaxing — many patients compare the sensation to a warm facial massage with a tingling, tightening feeling as the muscles contract. EMFACE sessions take just 20 minutes, and because everything is non-invasive there is no downtime at all; you can return to work, errands or the beach immediately.
Yes, and many seasonal residents and visitors do. Because there is no downtime, treatments fit easily around a stay. If you are here for a limited window, call us early and we will do our best to schedule your series around your dates.
Medical & Suitability
Neither, in most cases. Patients in their forties often use these treatments preventively, to hold the line as facial muscles begin to weaken. Patients in their sixties, seventies and beyond use them to reverse noticeable sagging. Our oldest EMFACE patient to date was 91, and her before and after photos are on our results page.
A few situations make EMFACE inappropriate, including certain implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers, metal implants in the treatment area, and pregnancy. Very advanced skin laxity may also be better addressed surgically. We review your health history at your consultation and will tell you honestly if we do not think we can help you.
Yes. We offer energy-based facial muscle therapy to help manage Bell's palsy and TMJ. After a series of six EMFACE treatments, patients experience meaningful improvement in facial symmetry, jaw comfort and reduced clenching — all with natural, non-invasive care. Our endodontic background means we understand the jaw and facial anatomy involved.
Because facial aesthetics and facial anatomy are the same subject. Dr. Gear's specialist training covers the muscles, nerves and jaw structures that these treatments target — which is precisely the knowledge that makes muscle-stimulating and laser treatments both safe and effective.
Getting Started
We talk. You tell us what is bothering you and what you are hoping for, we examine your skin and facial structure, and we tell you honestly what these treatments can and cannot achieve for you. You will leave knowing your recommended plan, the number of sessions and the cost. There is no pressure to book on the spot.
Fill in the short form on our consultation page and we will contact you to arrange a time, or call us directly at (508) 687-9950. We will welcome you to our peaceful, spa-like office in Vineyard Haven and design a plan that helps you look and feel your absolute best.
Ready for a lifted, tighter, more toned look?
Tell us a little about your goals and our team will reach out to schedule your personal consultation on Martha's Vineyard — no obligation, no pressure.