Face sagging from volume loss becomes noticeable in our late 30s to 40s and prominent by our 50s. Natural aging causes tissue laxity and loss of soft tissue, muscle and bone volume. In addition, gravity has a significant impact as it pulls facial fat pads and ligaments downwards. (Charming, I know!)
Soft tissue loss causes hollows and gauntness (cheek flattening, under-eye circles, temple hollowing), and fat pad slippage causes unwanted tissue folds and grooves in the mid to lower face: nasolabial lines, marionette lines and jowls are all caused by fat pads slipping down the front. There are two non-surgical approaches we use to treat facial sagging.
The first is skin tightening & lifting. The most effective non-surgical approach is a thread lift. Alternatively, non-surgical skin tightening can be achieved with radiofrequency, laser skin tightening or ultrasound (ultherapy). The second approach is to replace the volume loss with dermal fillers.
Volume Replacement with Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers restore youthful volume to cheeks, plump out nasolabial and marionette lines, and enhance jawline definition to lessen jowls’ appearance. There is a range of dermal fillers used for volume loss, and the cost of treatment depends on the product used, the area treated and the extent of volume loss. Dermal fillers cannot lift facial sagging, but often replacing volume can create the illusion of lifting.
Non-Surgical Lifting For Face Sagging With Threads
Aptos threads provide the latest non-surgical lifting techniques for facial sagging and volume replacement. They are new to Australia but have developed advanced techniques with over 20 years of use across Europe. It can be used for forehead or brow lift, midface or cheek lift, lower face sagging for jowl lift and neck lift. The thread lift is usually supplemented with dermal filler treatments to address facial volume loss.
Skin Tightening for Facial Sagging
Radiofrequency offers a non-surgical approach to lifting face sagging. There is a range of radiofrequency skin tightening treatments, including the eMatrix, Profound & Thermage. HIFU, such as Ultherapy, utilises ultrasound and is especially indicated for lower face sagging. However, they are all useful technology used for skin tightening and lifting; but do not expect the same degree of lifting that can be achieved with thread lift or surgical facelift. As with all lifting and tightening procedures, dermal fillers may be required to address facial volume loss.
Surgical Facelift for Advanced Facial Sagging
Once facial volume loss and sagging have progressed to a certain point, surgical facelifting becomes the best option. A surgical approach does require more downtime and increased risk. It provides an excellent lift of lax facial tissue but will not replace facial volume loss. You may need a fat transfer or dermal filler in addition to surgery.
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