With all the reported risks of plastic surgery, it is no wonder that women are seeking out other options. Plastic surgery requires anesthesia, usually takes several hours, and leaves the patient with a swollen, red, and sometimes bruised face. It takes around two weeks for complete recovery.

Cosmetic acupuncture, on the other hand, is completely safe and has no risks or side effects aside from the possibility of slight bruising. Don't expect an actual "facelift"; the benefits of facial cosmetic acupuncture are not magical and will not be noticed overnight. Rather than cutting the skin or using harsh chemical peels, cosmetic acupuncture provides more subtle results that are noticed over time.

A practitioner will insert tiny, thin needles into wrinkles and frown lines. The needles stimulate energy to flow around the face; blood rushes to the surface, and the muscles relax. The muscles then tighten, which decreases sagging of facial skin. The needles also stimulate the cells to create new collagen fibers under wrinkles, filling in fine lines. A recent study by the International Journal of Clinical acupuncture claims that 90% of those who tried facial acupuncture saw positive results such as softening of facial lines, improvement in skin tone, reduction of under-eye circles, and a general facial rejuvenation.

Prices and number of treatments vary from one practitioner to the next. When searching for a practitioner, be wary to choose someone with a license who has studied with a qualified teacher, and is part of the American cosmetic acupuncture association.

In addition to treating the body as a whole, Acupuncture also has benefits for patients who are undergoing cosmetic facial treatments. Typically, this type of Traditional Chinese medicine treatment is used to alleviate and treat stress, insomnia, anxiety and depression related illnesses, as well as countless other issues that we deal with today's society. Some doubt the validity of facial acupuncture; though the connection between positive well-being and improved skin appearance is easy to comprehend.

Opponents of the procedure will remind you that it is only a short term solution, lasting no more than a handful of years. However, surgical facelifts also have a limited period of effectiveness. There is no solution that will last forever. In less than a decade, the ravages of time will begin to show again, regardless of the number of surgeries completed.