Facial volume loss has come to the forefront of facial rejuvenation in the last few years, and is now recognized as a major giveaway of aging, along with wrinkling and sagging skin. Volume loss can encourage wrinkling, change overall facial expression, and make the face appear gaunt and hollow. Due to this new understanding of the importance of facial volume loss in aging, many more techniques and products are becoming available for fighting the problem. If you are seeing changes in your face due to volume loss, then it may be time to speak with a qualified facial plastic surgeon about your options for treatment.
Types of Treatment
When it comes to facial volume loss, most treatments are injectable. This is good news, as this type of treatment is typically less invasive than procedures requiring surgery. Here are some of the popular treatments used for improving facial contour and volume:
Juvederm Voluma XC
One of the newest FDA-approved hyaluronic acid fillers on the market, Juvederm Voluma XC has been formulated specifically to target volume loss in the cheeks, an area that often experiences this problem. While many fillers can add subtle volume to the cheek area, Voluma can produce more significant improvement and volume to the cheeks than other fillers. The procedure is performed in much the same way as with other fillers, in a brief injection session that requires little to no downtime.
Fat Transfer
Ideal for natural facial rejuvenation and volume loss, fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat from an area such as the stomach, hips, or thighs to restore volume lost in the face with age. The fat is harvested using gentle liposuction techniques, and is then refined and injected into the face. During the procedure, the treated area is over-filled somewhat, as some fat cells will not survive long-term, and for good, lasting results, extra cells must be added to compensate. Fat that lasts six months following treatment is considered relatively permanent. This is a surprisingly minimally invasive treatment, and ideal for patients who want natural rejuvenation.
Restylane Silk
For patients whose lips have thinned with age, Restylane Silk, the latest filler in the FDA’s lineup, could be the answer. The small, smooth particles of this hyaluronic filler are optimized for subtle augmentation and rejuvenation of the lips and vertical lines surrounding the mouth. Lip augmentation and contour improvement are extremely popular, and Restylane Silk is an exciting new tool for lip rejuvenation and restoring volume.
Longevity of Results
Treatments are being developed with greater longevity than ever before, which is great news for patients. However, procedures such as facial fillers are still only temporary measures, which must be repeated at intervals to maintain results. Juvederm Voluma is one of the longest-lasting fillers available, with results lasting up to two years when the procedure is performed under optimal conditions. Restylane Silk, being injected into the high movement area of the lips, can last up to six months. Fat transfer is the most permanent of the three treatments, with some of the fat injected establishing itself in the treated area and becoming semi-permanent.
Invasiveness
While none of the aforementioned treatments are very invasive, fat transfer does have a surgical component, and is thus a bit more invasive than injectable fillers. However, with the increased longevity offered by fat transfer, many patients feel the tradeoff is worth it. It all depends on your goals and willingness to undergo ongoing treatments to maintain your results.
Customized Treatment
When it comes to facial rejuvenation, there is no way to tell what will work best for you without doing your research and speaking with a facial plastic surgeon about your options. Everyone’s aging progression is different, and it can be difficult to choose a procedure or treatment plan without consulting with an expert first.
Planning your treatment involves consulting with facial plastic surgeons about your goals and having your candidacy assessed. This will allow you to get to know prospective surgeons, ask for advice, and voice your concerns about anything related to your treatment plan.
In order to get the best advice and treatment, you should only meet with board certified facial plastic surgeons who have a proven track record of great results and a commitment to giving patients beautiful, natural facial rejuvenation. When you are ready to begin your search, come to Buckingham Center and meet with renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Edward Buckingham. Dr. Buckingham offers patients a variety of effective treatments and compassionate care in Austin, Texas. Call 512-401-2500 today to schedule your consultation.
