What causes Aging?
Aging is a natural process. There is a loss of elasticity in the tendons, blood vessels and
skin as we age. In addition, skin becomes thinner, more fragile, and wrinkled and the fatty
tissues decrease, and bone reabsorbs. Facial volume loss is another symptom of aging, and it is
often caused or determined by genetics, medications, weight loss, stress, and lifestyle factors.
What are signs of facial volume loss?
Facial volume loss shows in the way of temple hollowing, sunken-in eye sockets,
flattened cheeks, loose and sagging skin around the jawline known as jowling. Wrinkles are a
sign of aging and have many different causes including loss of body mass, habitual sleeping
positions, prolonged immersion in water, persistent facial expressions, aging, sun damage,
smoking and dehydration.
Wrinkles typically appear around the eyes, mouth, forehead, hands and neck. Overtime,
skin loses collagen and elastin that causes skin to thin, giving a less smooth appearance.
Atrophy in the subcutaneous tissues (including bone, fat, and muscle) makes skin folds even
more prominent with overlying skin hanging from points of deep attachments. We see a clear
influence of atrophy and gravity on aging skin appear between the ages of 40 to 50 years and
beyond.
What are the Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers?
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) has been utilized as an active ingredient in a large range of
cosmetic formulations from topical to injectable. HA as an injectable is associated with its
ability to augment soft tissue when there is volume loss. HA dermal filler can be used in the
midface (medial and lateral cheeks), nasolabial folds, marionette lines, chin, upper and lower
lips, periorbital region, tear troughs, temples and more. HA based dermal fillers are a promising
treatment to enhance skin hydration, brightness and skin elasticity and stimulate collagen
synthesis via the induction of fibroblasts.
Dermal filler has become a more comfortable procedure thanks to the addition of lidocaine which in turn has rendered better results due to patient compliance. Studies have shown that some HA dermal fillers can last up to 18 months depending on the rheology of the filler and where it is placed.
Recommendations for HA dermal fillers
Recommendations for dermal fillers can be made through a consultation with a medical
professional (Registered Nurse, Advanced Practice Provider like an NP or PA or a Doctor). If you
suffer from volume loss and the natural aging process, you could be a good candidate and a
tailored plan of care can be made for you based on shared aesthetic goals and
recommendations of your provider.
Madison McGown, APRN, FNP-C is a board certified nurse practioner that specializes in facial cosmetic injections and rejuvenation at the Facial Plastic Surgery Intitute. Please contact us if you are interested in a consultation with Madison.
