As we age, so do the support structures of our skin. The loss of facial collagen decreases the skin’s elasticity, volume, and moisture-retaining qualities, bestowing upon us those telltale signs of maturing facial tissue—marionette lines, droopy jowls and a saggy chin or jaw. But here’s the good news: today there are a multitude of non-invasive treatment options that can effectively minimize the unwelcome appearance of excessive or loose skin around the chin and jawline, returning definition to the face, and help you reclaim a more youthful appearance (no time machine required!).
Non-surgical, injectable treatments: Adding volume to skin that’s beginning to sag can be a great, non-invasive option for those of us challenged by gravity. Sculptra, an injectable, long-lasting volumizer, is a great option for eliminating marionette or deep smile lines, helping to fill in and lift the skin around the mouth, chin and jawline. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Sculptra, has the added benefit of stimulating the body’s natural collagen production.
When more volume is necessary, hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane may be used. These fillers can be very successful in helping reverse age-related midface volume loss (volume loss in the cheek area) by contouring and lifting the skin to give a very natural looking result.
Although more commonly used in the upper facial area, a minimal amount of Botox can also be used to correct lines near the mouth or unwanted dimples or bumps around the chin and neck.
Non-surgical, radiofrequency treatments: Another non-invasive option for tightening and smoothing mild to moderately sagging skin is the use of microneedling radiofrequency treatment, such as the Infini. These treatments use a specialized device to deliver a dose of radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis, stimulating your body’s natural collagen production and giving you the equivalent of a non-surgical “facelift.” In addition to generally tightening and volumizing the skin, radiofrequency treatment is especially effective in lifting your jowls, treating wrinkles around the cheeks, and improving your skin’s overall texture .
In the event of severe volume loss in the jowl or chin area, surgery may be the only fully corrective option. While thicker, injectable fillers can penetrate deep into the dermis and give some lift to troublesome spots, they may not be effective enough to fully correct more complicated anatomy. Consult a plastic surgeon for more information on your options.
Everything from genetics to sun exposure can play a role in how the face ages. Luckily, an incredible array of non-surgical, minimally invasive options are now available to help boost your self-confidence and restore harmony to your mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Tamy M. Faierman is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and founder of the new Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa and Wellness Center. Her office is located at 17130 Royal Palm Boulevard, Suite 1, in the Windmill Professional Campus. For more information, please call her office at 954-322-2742 or visit www.reshapeyourimage.com.