Correcting an Aging Face

Did you know that as you age, your face not only droops, but also deflates? Many plastic surgeons recommend repositioning fat for rejuvenation of an aging face. However, it is possible that volume replacement may also be necessary to achieve the best possible results.

Aging Face Research

In February 2007, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery article by Stanford surgeons investigated facial volume using 3D computed tomography (CT) imaging. The team studied 30 men and 30 women and demonstrated loss of bony skeletal volume and soft tissue volume that gave way to the appearance of an aging face.

In a January 2008 article, Dr. Owsley described anatomical observations of mid-facial aging. He attributed constant tissue expansion to gravitational forces and stretching of deep connecting structures. He agreed that simply repositioning these tissues would not suffice and that some degree of fat loss (deflation) must be addressed to achieve best possible results.

At Finesse Plastic Surgery, we advocate fat redistribution and augmentation to correct aging in the face. A youthful appearing face is egg-shaped, with the narrow side down. In an aging face, the volume gravitates downwards until the egg shape becomes narrow side up. Our surgical goal is to reposition the drooping soft tissue upward in the cheeks and temples.

This will create a beautiful result that is also long lasting. Performing fat transfer or adding injectable fillers can improve results depending on your preferences. Using your own fat is a great option that leads to permanent results. This can be performed before surgery, during surgery or after surgery. If you like the idea of using injectable fillers, we have a PA who specializes in nonsurgical rejuvenation procedures. Nina is very skilled with injectable fillers.

Consultation

When you visit us, you will not need a CT scan of your face. The study referenced above simply shows how aging in the face occurs. However, we do offer Vectra, which is a 3D imaging that allows us to simulate the results of surgery. This is performed as a complimentary service during your consultation.

Add new comment