Fine lines and wrinkles are one of the most noticeable signs of aging, and are one of the easiest signs to treat without surgery. Lines and wrinkles can be first tackled with skin care products recommended by your aesthetician or plastic surgeon and lifestyle changes (like stopping a smoking habit, drinking more water, and wearing sunscreen). If that is ineffective, there are several non-surgical procedures your plastic surgeon can prescribe that can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Botox
Botox is a diluted protein that is injected into the sites of fine lines and moderate to severe wrinkles in order to soften their appearance. When you use the same facial muscles repeatedly (like when smiling, frowning, or squinting), the skin over the muscle will wrinkle over time. Botox injections cause that often-used facial muscle to relax, which in turn relaxes the wrinkled skin on top. You can reduce the appearance of wrinkles between your brows, around the eyes (crows feet), and in horizontal creases across the forehead. And since the injection weakens the muscles that are causing the wrinkles, the wrinkles wont deepen further.
Botox is a quick and simple procedure that you can usually do over a lunch break. You dont need any anesthetic, and theres no down time to speak of. You can return to your normal activities immediately.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers, also known as cosmetic injectables, are substances injected under the skin to plump up sunken areas and deep wrinkles. They are an excellent way of reducing the appearance of wrinkles that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth, or from the mouth to the chin. Collagen and hyaluronic acid are common options for dermal fillers, and you can even use your own fat by having it removed from an unwanted area. Human fat is a great option because theres no chance for an allergic reaction, since its your bodys own tissue. Dermal fillers can also be done in the office in an hour or two, without anesthesia. You might have a bit of swelling afterwards- you can counteract that with a cold compress.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing, also known as a laser facial, is a procedure that uses a carefully controlled laser beam to remove the upper layer of damaged, wrinkled skin and encourage the growth of new collagen. Collagen is the protein that gives your skin firmness, and new collagen growth will give your skin a tighter, younger, more rejuvenated appearance. Laser resurfacing can also be used to combat the appearance of blemishes, acne scarring, and other cosmetic issues. Laser resurfacing is a very precise process, allowing the surgeon to target specific areas or to rejuvenate your entire face. The recovery process will depend on the exact type of laser resurfacing you select, and your surgeon will help you with that process.
You can also combine these procedures with skin care products, lifestyle changes, and even with each other. Dermal fillers and Botox pair very well together. Laser resurfacing is also an excellent way to remove wrinkles that were missed by other surgical procedures, like a face lift. Dermal fillers and Botox can also be paired with surgical procedures. Botox pairs well with eyelid surgery and forehead lifts, especially. Dermal fillers work well with the face lift procedure.
How Do I Know Which Procedure To Pick?
Your surgeon will listen to your concerns and direct you to the procedure that works best for you. Selecting a Board Certified procedure will help ensure that you are getting the most up-to-date, safe information possible. The procedure that is recommended for you will depend on the location and severity of your fine lines and wrinkles, your current lifestyle, the kind of recovery time youre looking for, and the results you desire. Botox and dermal filler treatments eventually need to be repeated, which may be a deciding factor for some patients. Call our Northern Virginia office at (703) 574-2588 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options and which procedures and skin care products will be most effective for your skin.