18 Jan Choosing The Right Procedure For Deep Wrinkles: Is It Time To See A Plastic Surgeon?
One Too Many Wrinkles
A glance in the mirror may reveal a line on the face that was not there before. Soon enough, one wrinkle turns into another and another. Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, even for those with an impeccable skincare routine. Although natural, deep wrinkles can add unwanted years to the face. These changes have caused many to visit a plastic surgeon for help. With a range of options available, this doctor can help turn back the clock.
What causes deep wrinkles?
The skin contains collagen, elastin, and other compounds that act like tight bonds. From age 20, collagen production decreases, and collagen loss begins at age 30 and beyond. As a result, the skin loses elasticity and develops tiny folds called wrinkles. Sun damage, oxidative stress, environmental triggers, and certain medications also speed up this process. In addition, repetitive movement of the underlying muscles from squinting, laughing, or frowning causes additional deeper wrinkles. As a result, some people develop smile lines, bunny lines, glabellar lines, and crow’s feet. There’s also a genetic component, as some are more prone to deep wrinkling.
Can injectables help?
Severe wrinkles are treatable by a plastic surgeon with a wealth of knowledge on the issue. The surgeon can evaluate the patient’s face and provide a few options. Injectables are a standard non-surgical procedure that can help. This technique places a natural compound into the upper layers of the skin to improve the appearance of wrinkles. Fillers are another option that can plump the skin, adding volume and smoothing wrinkles. Sometimes, a surgeon may recommend using fillers to perform a liquid facial.
The power of facelifts
A common disadvantage of fillers is that the results are short-lived. At most, a patient will see improvements for 18 months, and over time additional fillers will be needed. A facelift is the gold standard for a more dramatic, long-term solution. The surgical procedure lifts and tightens the skin while removing any excess skin causing wrinkles. The surgeon will make an incision along the hairline toward the ear. The skin is gently lifted, then the underlying tissue is strategically repositioned. The surgeon will then tighten the skin, remove any excess, and reattach with stitches. The results of a facelift can eliminate wrinkles and shave several years off the patient’s appearance. Mini-facelifts are also available, using smaller incisions to treat mild to moderate wrinkles.
Which treatment is best?
The surgeon will present all the possible options for the patient. If the patient prefers a non-surgical approach and has moderate wrinkles, injectables can help. Along with injectables, other procedures like microneedling, chemical peels, or laser therapy may provide a short-term benefit. However, facelift surgery works best for patients with deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging. See a plastic surgeon to discuss all the options currently available.