Addressing Signs of Facial Aging: Surgical and Non-surgical Options

Posted September 03, 2019 in Facial Rejuvenation

Men and women are always looking for new ways to maintain a rejuvenating glow and a youthful facial appearance. For some patients, this means surgical procedures like a facelift; however, for others, it means skincare and minimally invasive treatments.

What Is Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery addresses lines, wrinkles, creases, volume loss, and sagging skin on the lower two-thirds of the face. This procedure is commonly combined with neck lift surgery and/or blepharoplasty for full facial rejuvenation. Facelift surgery physically manipulates and tightens the facial tissues to restore youthfulness.

*Actual Patient* Results May Vary

Protecting Your Skin

Some of the best ways to postpone the need for a surgical facelift are simple practices that you can add to your daily schedule, starting with taking care of your skin so the age-related signs do not develop as quickly.

Sun Protection

Excessive sun exposure is the quickest way to speed up the aging process. The UV radiation from the sun causes the tissues to break down, and, when this occurs, the muscles and underlying facial fat begin to droop and the skin starts to sag. Practicing sun protection is the first step in postponing the aging process, as it prevents the face from aging faster than it should. Patients should wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, avoid peak sun hours, and cover themselves with clothing, hats, and glasses whenever possible.

Hydration

Your skin needs hydration just as your body does. Hydration to the skin comes from drinking the daily recommended amount of water (which is traditionally 64 ounces), and from applying moisturizers, lotions, and hydrating creams to your face and neck. The more hydrated your skin is, the stronger the tissues are beneath, and the healthier your face will look.

Healthy Habits

Unhealthy habits like smoking or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol are not only harmful to your overall health but are also damaging to your skin. The toxins found in cigarettes damage the collagen and elastin in your skin, which, like the sun, speeds up the aging process. Alcohol consumption leads to dehydration, which is also detrimental to the suppleness and softness of your skin. Following a healthy lifestyle will provide lasting anti-aging benefits to your facial appearance as well as improve your complete health.

Minimally Invasive Treatments

While facelift surgery provides the most comprehensive form of facial rejuvenation, not every patient is ready or willing to jump into the surgical seat. Non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures can often postpone the need for more invasive surgical work.

For Volume Loss

Volume loss is an expected element of the aging process. With time, the facial fat that once was positioned on the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and around the eyes starts to diminish, and you may be left with a thin and gaunt facial appearance. Injectable dermal fillers like JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, and Sculptra® Aesthetic provide instant volume and also stimulate collagen production for longer-lasting results. Some fillers show results for up to two years.

For Wrinkles

Fine lines, wrinkles, and minor skin laxity is the first sign of the aging process. Injectable treatments like fillers, BOTOX® Cosmetic, or Dysport® can smooth wrinkles across the lower face and around the eyes. Injectable platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can smooth wrinkles, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture. PRP injections on the face are often referred to as a vampire facial because it uses the platelets, growth factors, and proteins from your blood as the anti-aging agent.

For Skin Texture Irregularities

While PRP can address skin irregularities such as acne scars, tonal concerns, and large pores, these conditions can also be treated with laser resurfacing. Laser rejuvenation with the CO2 or Er:YAG laser treats sun damage, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, freckles, and pigmented lesions.

Contact Us Today!

Non- or minimally invasive treatments can restore a youthful quality to the skin and can often prolong the need for an invasive correction. If you are looking for skin rejuvenation near you, contact Dr. Careaga by calling (305) 574-9292 or by filling out our online contact form.