As we age, our faces undergo changes in appearance, typically starting in our 40s and 50s, although some may notice these changes even in their 30s. After the age of 25, we begin to lose approximately 1% of collagen each year. Facial ageing is a gradual process that affects the skin, underlying soft tissues, facial volume, and even bone structure. In aesthetic medicine, we categorise the face into three main sections: the upper, mid, and lower face.
The Three Facial Sections
- Upper Face: Includes the forehead and brows.
- Mid Face: Encompasses the nose and surrounding areas.
- Lower Face: Comprises the chin and jawline.
The mid-face, in particular, plays a significant role in facial rejuvenation. In our younger years, we have high cheekbones and ample volume in the cheeks, with a smooth under-eye area. However, as we age, this dynamic shifts, and we tend to lose volume in our cheeks, experience changes in bone structure, and notice the development of lower face jowls, which can make us look heavier and saggy.
Factors Influencing Facial Ageing
Numerous factors contribute to facial ageing, including:
- Changes in skin texture and discolouration.
- Loss of volume due to subcutaneous fat and muscle changes.
- Alterations in structural support from bones and teeth.
- Sun exposure, smoking, hormone imbalances, stress, diet, and overall health.
Treating Facial Ageing with Dermal Fillers
Dermal Fillers consist of a gel-like substance made of hyaluronic acid, which is injected into the skin. The cross-linking of hyaluronic acid in the filler provides a volumising effect. Different fillers come in various consistencies, allowing practitioners to choose the most suitable one for the specific area being treated. For instance, a filler used for volumising lips may not be suitable for treating the jawline, which requires a thicker consistency. Depending on the treatment area and the type of filler used, results can last from 9 to 24 months.
The Treatment Plan
After assessing the three facial sections mentioned earlier, we can create a customized treatment plan tailored to your goals. Our experienced injectors typically start by addressing volume loss in the midface, strategically placing filler in the cheek area. This adds structure, resulting in a lifting effect and reducing heaviness in the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and jowl area. This treatment approach aims to enhance your natural features rather than overfilling them.
Once the midface has been successfully treated, we can consider addressing concerns in the lower third of the face if necessary. Sometimes, rejuvenating the midface alone is sufficient to restore lost volume.
Injection Techniques
The choice of filler and injection technique is crucial. Deep injections down to the bone using a needle are used for structuring and contouring, known as the bolus technique. The fanning technique, employing either a needle or cannula, is used in the mid and superficial dermis to lift skin tissues and add volume.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following treatment, you may experience minor swelling and a potential risk of bruising. Injected areas might feel hard, tender, and slightly bumpy initially, which is normal. We recommend allowing 14 days for everything to settle, and the dermal filler to integrate with your skin tissue. Dermal filler results are immediate and continue to improve over the following days. Staying well hydrated is essential, as fillers are attracted to water, enhancing your results.
Conclusion
If you’re concerned about the signs of ageing and want to look refreshed while maintaining your natural appearance, consider booking a consultation with one of our aesthetic nurse practitioners at Aeternum Aesthetics in Ashby De La Zouch. We will provide personalised advice and recommend the best treatment plan to help you achieve your desired results. Contact us now to learn more.
