First the bad news. Facial wrinkles are an inevitable part of the aging process. The development of wrinkles is directly related to genetic makeup, lifestyle, and exposure to the elements. The inexorable course of events that lead our skin to age must be understood so we can take the necessary steps to the slow the process down.
The skin, our largest organ, is made up of two layers, the epidermal layer and dermal layer. The aging process significantly impacts the dermal layer of the skin. As we age, cellular turnover is reduced, leading to decreased collagen and elastin production, causing the skin to sag and wrinkle. The subcutaneous layer, which lies under the dermal layer, consists mainly of fat cells called adipose tissue. The adipose cells plump the skin and act as fat padding for the face. Over time the fat cells break down causing a loss in the resilience and youthfulness of the skin. This natural sequence of events is an unfortunate part of life and at some point the loss of elasticity and thinning of the skin results in wrinkles. The good news is that technological advances in the world of skin care can significantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Taking preventive care at an early age is the most important factor to aging gracefully. Preventive care includes avoiding direct sunlight, smoking, and stressful environments. By leading a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a good skin care regimen, balanced diet, and consistent sleeping habits, you will maintain a more youthful appearance.
Procedures such as fat transfers and laser therapy are minor procedures offering exceptional preventive care, and Botox and commercial fillers are a big help in the fight against wrinkles. Surgical procedures including blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), face lift, forehead lift, and brow lift are more in-depth treatments that will contour and tighten the facial structure, smoothing unsightly wrinkles. Deciding what procedure is best for you can be the tricky part. When the time comes it is important to discuss these with your plastic surgeon what treatments are best for you. Right now, prevention and simple procedures can greatly prolong your youthful appearance.
