By Dr. TRACY MOUNTFORD, MBBS MBCAM
As we age there is a steady progressive loss of facial volume. The old saying was that a woman had to choose between her figure or her face. The idea being, that a fuller figure would also have a fuller face, ensuring the face was plumped up with volume and while looking younger as a result. With this in mind, a slimmer cut to the figure would show volume loss in the face, thereby highlight the ageing process.
Replacing Lost Volume with Fillers
These days there are a number of facial treatments that can increase volume to aged areas. Most typically volume loss occurs in the cheeks, below the eyes, the chin and in the temples. The ideal treatments for the replacement of lost facial volume are dermal fillers and collagen-stimulating treatments such as Sculptra.
Dermal fillers come in a variety of densities to suit the various indications of volume loss on the face and come in the form of clear gels which are injected under the skin. These dermal fillers are mainly HA-based (hyaluronic acid) which is a naturally occurring component of our skin. When injected into the skin, hyaluronic acid volumises, softens and hydrates it. It also stimulates collagen and elastin production underneath the skin to restore facial volume and improve the skin’s appearance.
The Benefits of Facial Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers can be used to revitalise the face in several game-changing ways. From cheek fillers, lip fillers and chin fillers, to jawline fillers and more, patients can use them across multiple areas of the face to restore volume and definition to the skin. They have the power to:
- Smooth away wrinkles and folds around the mouth and nose
- Define and restore lost volume to the cheeks and temples
- Soften and reduce lines across the forehead and around the eyes
- Shape and re-contour to remove visible signs of ageing
- Define and enhance lips naturally
Long-lasting results
Overall the use of dermal fillers gives an immediate result that can last up to 12 months depending on the treatment area. There is little or no downtime with the treatment and you can return to your normal activities straight after.
The most important aspect of this anti-ageing treatment is to ensure the look and results are naturally flattering. When considering dermal fillers, always review your practitioner’s before and after photographs to get a sense of their ability to craft a natural-looking result and achieve a genuine improvement.
