The Aging Face and Facial Rejuvenation

By Steven J. Yoon, MD

Maryland Eye Associates

. http://marylandeyeassociates.com

More Beauty Skin Care & Gorgeous Smiles Articles

The Aging Face and Facial Rejuvenation

Aging changes of the face are far more evident, and occur earlier compared to other areas of the body. With decreased muscle tone, thinning of the skin, and volume loss, the regions around the eyes are particularly vulnerable, and may portray a very tired, sad appearance. Facial rejuvenation includes cosmetic and medical procedures, involving anti-aging skin care, skin-resurfacing techniques, non-surgical injectables, such as Botox and dermal fillers, as well as surgical procedures.

Factors involved in facial aging include cumulative UV-exposure, decreased collagen production, diminished elasticity, hormonal changes, environmental toxins, and genetics. The loss of bone mass and tendon laxity permits sagging of the soft tissue, and an aged appearance.

Skin care is aimed at maintaining skin tone, and preventing skin damage. Exfoliation and moisturizing are important for the appearance of healthy skin. Skin care treatments should be tailored based on your skin type, pigmentation, and ethnicity. Sunscreens, cleansers, toners, antioxidant therapy, vitamin C, and retinol can all be important elements of your individual skin care routine. Prescription strength products and treatments may also be recommended.

Skin resurfacing treatments aim to improve the texture, clarity and imperfections of the skin. Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation treatment to buff away dead skin cells, and reveal the healthier layer of skin beneath. Chemical peels provide a deeper exfoliation, removing toxins, and hastens the regeneration of the deeper layers of skin. Laser resurfacing and intense pulse light are forms of photorejuventation to treat wrinkles, areas of sun damage, and discolorations.

Injectables, such as Botox and facial fillers can aid in rejuvenation to smooth wrinkles, efface folds and furrows, and improve hollowed facial areas. Dynamic wrinkles occur when muscles contract during facial expressions. Areas most prone to dynamic wrinkles are those where the muscles are most active. For instance, when we smile the outer corners of our eyes wrinkle, and when we frown the vertical lines between our eyebrows become prominent. In our youth the skin rapidly went back into position, but with age and the loss of collagen, the wrinkles remain longer and become static wrinkles.

While botulinum is ideally used for dynamic wrinkles, dermal fillers are the treatment of choice for wrinkles and furrows that exist in the absence of any facial expression. Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, are commonly used in the creases that run from the bottom of the nose and corners of the mouth, cheeks, and lips.

Surgery can dramatically improve the appearance of particular facial features. The region around the eyes is particularly important in expression and facial appearance. Droopy upper eyelids, eyebrows, and puffy lower eyelids are several features that can be revitalized through surgical procedures. Removal of excess skin and fat around the eyelids through a procedure called a blepharoplasty, and reattaching the stretched tendon of the eyelid muscle to its normal higher position through a ptosis repair, can be very useful procedures rejuvenating procedures for many individuals. Mid-face and face-lifts, are also excellent options for certain individuals.

In the age of medical sub specialization, there are many overlapping specialists in the eyelid and facial areas. The combined influences through these subspecialties provide a more comprehensive and collegial approach to techniques in facial rejuvenation and facial surgery, allowing improved patient care, better outcomes and fewer complications. Your ophthalmologist is a good place to start in seeking to restore your youthful appearance.