It’s no secret that our confidence is often tied to our appearance. When we look our best, we also tend to feel our best.
While aging brings plenty of benefits along with it, it also carries detriments. One of the most notable is a change in our face structure. More specifically, many people experience facial volume loss as they get older.
The same can be said for people who lose a lot of weight. The good news is that there are steps you can take to handle this issue. Let’s explore the key information you need to know.
Understanding Facial Volume Loss
Facial volume loss refers to the reduction in fat, muscle, and bone in the face. It commonly manifests as sagging cheeks, hollowed eyes, thinning lips, and deepened wrinkles.
In some cases, it can negatively impact your facial aesthetics. Volume loss can happen due to aging, weight loss, or certain medical conditions.
Collagen and elastin, both of which are vital for skin elasticity, naturally decrease over time. Understanding these factors helps you choose the best treatments.
Treatment Options
There’s no shortage of treatment options for facial volume loss. The ideal one for your situation will depend on the circumstances and your doctor’s recommendation. Listed below are some of the most notable.
Dermal Fillers
Fillers are one of the most popular treatments for facial volume loss. They’re injectable substances that restore volume and smooth wrinkles.
Common fillers include hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid. These can rejuvenate the cheeks, lips, and under-eye area. In general, results will last between 6 and 18 months.
Fat Transfer
Also called fat grafting, this procedure involves harvesting fat from one body part (usually the abdomen or thighs) and injecting it into the face. This technique offers natural, long-lasting results since it uses your body’s tissue.
However, it requires a longer recovery period compared to less-involved options like fillers. Keep this in mind when moving forward.
Implants
Cheek or chin implants are meant to serve as a permanent solution. However, they can be removed in the future if necessary.
Implants enhance contours by adding volume where needed. Not everyone is a candidate for implants, and many patients will have to explore other options instead.
Skin Tightening Treatments
Non-invasive procedures like radiofrequency or ultrasound therapy stimulate collagen production. By extension, they also improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
While they won’t dramatically restore lost volume on their own, they can complement other treatments. These are great options for those who have loose skin after weight loss.
Facelift Surgery
For severe facial volume loss and sagging, a facelift remains the most comprehensive option. Surgeons reposition underlying tissues and tighten the skin to achieve a youthful appearance.
This procedure offers long-lasting results, but it’s essential to work with a reputable surgeon. It’s never recommended to settle when searching.
Does Insurance Cover Facial Rejuvenation?
In most cases, insurance does not cover elective cosmetic procedures. However, if the volume loss results from an illness or injury, partial coverage might apply.
Always consult with your insurance provider and your surgeon to confirm these details. The last thing you want is to find out you have to pay far more than anticipated.
Finding a Medical Professional
Not all medical professionals are created equal, and it’s essential to do your due diligence before moving forward. See what other people online have to say about what it was like working with them.
Did they encounter problems their doctor couldn’t help them overcome? Were they comfortable throughout the interaction?
The answers to questions like these will help you narrow down your choices. Check their reputation online and see what other people have to say. There should be no shortage of positive feedback.
However, you should also keep an eye out for fake reviews. These are often posted in large batches.
Ignore them when making your assessment so you can have an accurate perspective. It’s important to check their pricing structure, as well. You often get what you pay for, and you shouldn’t go with the cheapest options you find.
However, you also don’t need to pay as much as possible. There’s a point of diminishing returns regarding what you budget for. Somewhere in the middle of the price range can help you meet your needs without overspending.
How much experience do they have in this area? Ideally, you’ll find someone who’s been in the industry for at least a decade.
While inexperienced surgeons don’t always achieve poor results, they’re less likely to reach your goals. Surgeons who handle your procedure ineptly can cause long-lasting or permanent issues, such as deep scarring.
This could lead to further complications, such as diminished self-esteem. As long as you stay vigilant, you shouldn’t have an issue finding the best choice for your situation.
Preventing Facial Volume Loss
While some volume loss is inevitable due to aging, there are steps you can take to minimize its effects. Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen daily. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays accelerate collagen breakdown and contribute to premature aging.
Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, as well. Foods like avocados, nuts, and green veggies can go a long way. Regular exercise will promote good circulation and keep your skin glowing.
Staying consistent with moisturizers, retinoids, and serums can help boost collagen production. Consider supplements like collagen peptides or vitamins C and E to provide additional support. Hydration is also crucial, as dehydrated skin will quickly lose its elasticity.
Take Action Today
As soon as you notice the need for facial volume treatment, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. This will help you minimize the effects of facial volume loss and improve your facial aesthetics. Just be sure to research the medical provider you choose.
Dr. Deuber offers personalized, innovative plastic surgery services in Dallas, Texas. We focus on delivering safe, natural-looking results through state-of-the-art technology with tailored procedures.
Our compassionate team ensures each patient receives the stellar care they deserve. You’ll learn more about what we can offer when you schedule a consultation today.