A Modern Approach To The Aging Face

New techniques and advanced research have shown that the antiquated, “skin only” approach to the aging face is severely flawed. In this older paradigm, facial aging was viewed simply as sagging skin and muscle, and was almost always treated with a facelift.

Unfortunately, a facelift only addresses the loose skin and muscle and ignores the greater source of aging, VOLUME LOSS. Ignoring volume loss leaves many facelift patients with a gaunt and overstretched appearance, with obvious signs of having “gone under the knife.” In addition, the tight appearance of the skin is short-lived; sagging skin can return in only a few short years following the procedure.

In retrospect, it is surprising that it has taken cosmetic surgeons so long to recognize the importance of volume loss in combating the aging process. Volume loss arguably contributes more to an aged look than loss of skin and muscle tone. Repositioning fat to compensate for the volume loss has been attempted with variable results, however, FAT TRANSFER to the face from other parts of the body has proved to be the most successful in restoring volume loss.

This process is known as FAT GRAFTING and can result in an astounding transformation when performed correctly. In fact, when volume is replaced in the face, we often see that skin no longer sags and a facelift may be avoided altogether. Consider how a sack, such as a balloon, distends when filled. In a similar manner, wrinkles on the face are erased as the skin is filled by the additional volume. Another potential benefit of fat grafting to the face is the direct rejuvenating effects awarded the skin from the STEM CELLS present in the fat.

If significant skin laxity is present despite fat grafting, then a more conservative facelift can augment the volume replacement. Mild skin laxity can often be addressed with less invasive procedures, such as THERMITIGHT or non-invasively with THERMISMOOTH. These are radio frequency devices that use heat to products a contracting effect, leading to tightening.

To complete the facial rejuvenation treatment, LASER SKIN RESURFACING may be added to help remove damaged skin and to efface lines around the eyes and mouth. At my practice, we prefer the CO2 laser for resurfacing the face because of its versatility and unparalleled efficacy. To enhance the incorporation of the new fat and to speed the recovery of the resurfaced skin, I routinely use PLATELET RICH PLASMA mixed with the fat and incorporate into the skin with MICRONEEDLING.

Other complimentary procedures can be added as needed, such as EYELID LIFTING and NECK REJUVENATION. These are considered on an individual basis.

In considering your treatment options, it’s important to understand the modern approach to the aging face. This includes volume replacement with fat grafting, skin resurfacing with CO2 laser or similar, and skin tightening with invasive or noninvasive techniques.

To learn more, please call to schedule a consultation. I’ll be happy to discuss the components of facial rejuvenation with you to determine if any of these are right for you.

Package pricing is available for global facial rejuvenation which incorporates all three modalities: Volume Replacement, Laser Skin Resurfacing, and Skin Tightening.