Conditions
Sagging Face
Sagging face, also known as facial ptosis, is a common concern associated with aging, characterized by the loss of skin firmness and elasticity, leading to a drooping or lax appearance of the facial contours. Various factors contribute to facial sagging, including the natural aging process, loss of collagen and elastin fibres, gravitational forces, repetitive facial expressions, and lifestyle habits.
Causes
A sagging face arises from the interplay of several factors:
- Aging: As we age, the skin's production of collagen and elastin fibers decreases, resulting in reduced skin elasticity and firmness, contributing to facial sagging.
- Loss of Facial Fat: The redistribution or loss of facial fat pads with age can lead to hollowing or volume loss in certain areas, contributing to a sunken or sagging appearance.
- Gravity: Over time, gravitational forces exerted on the facial tissues can cause them to descend, leading to drooping of the cheeks, jowls, and jawline.
- Repetitive Facial Expressions: Habitual facial expressions, such as frowning or squinting, can cause the formation of dynamic wrinkles and contribute to facial sagging over time.
Treatment Approach
Treatment options for sagging face aim to restore skin firmness and elasticity, improve facial contours, and rejuvenate the overall appearance of the face. Common treatment modalities include:
- Dermal Fillers: Injectable fillers like hyaluronic acid or collagen can restore volume to sunken areas of the face, providing lift and support to sagging skin.
- Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injected into specific facial muscles, Botox can temporarily relax muscle activity, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles and providing a subtle lifting effect to sagging areas.
- Thread Lift: A minimally invasive procedure that involves the insertion of dissolvable threads beneath the skin to lift and support sagging facial tissues, providing immediate and long-lasting results.
- Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy: RF energy heats the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening loose skin, leading to a firmer and more lifted appearance.
- Surgical Procedures: In cases of severe facial sagging, surgical interventions such as facelift or neck lift may be recommended to remove excess skin, tighten underlying muscles, and restore youthful facial contours.
Recommended Skincare Product from Obagi Medical:
Obagi ELASTIderm Facial Serum: Formulated with bi-mineral complex and malonic acid, this serum helps improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of sagging skin, promoting a firmer, more youthful-looking complexion.
