Facial volume loss can cause an aged or tired appearance, whether from aging or significant weight loss. The good news is there are a mix of dermatologist-recommended procedures to treat facial volume loss. This article will explore why this happens and the best treatments available to restore a youthful appearance.
According to Dr. Jennifer Holman of U.S. Dermatology Partners Tyler, “Facial volume loss is a common issue that affects many people, especially as we age. Our skin loses elasticity and volume over time and, when combined with significant weight loss, these changes become more pronounced. The cheeks, lips, and chin are typically the most prone to losing volume and causing an aged appearance. A variety of cosmetic treatments have been introduced to target lost facial volume and to improve your overall look.”
From dermal fillers to non-surgical procedures, Dr. Holman will cover popular cosmetic procedures that focus on adding volume to the face, smoothing out wrinkles, and enhancing natural beauty.
Understanding Facial Volume Loss
Facial volume loss is a natural part of the aging process that can significantly affect one’s appearance. With age, facial volume decreases due to several factors, including the reduction of fat pads and changes in skin elasticity. This volume loss can lead to deeper wrinkles, sunken cheeks, and an overall aged look.
There are many treatments to reverse this condition depending on skin type, area of the face, and desired results. Knowing these options is the first step to facial rejuvenation and volume restoration.
Why Does Weight Loss Affect the Face?
Weight loss, especially when rapid or dramatic, can significantly affect the face. This is particularly noticeable with GLP-1 medications that have gained nationwide popularity for causing significant weight loss in a short period—coining the term “Ozempic face.”
Dr. Holman explains, “When we lose weight, the fat pads under the skin, especially in the mid-face and lower face, decrease. The reduction in fat volume can cause a gaunt or hollow look and make wrinkles and sagging skin more noticeable. As we age our skin loses elasticity and collagen, adding to the effects of weight loss and fat loss.”
While weight loss promotes health and positive outcomes, changes in facial volume loss can be disheartening, however the right treatments can promote restoring facial volume for a more youthful, healthy glow.
Signs of Facial Volume Loss
Facial volume loss can be seen in several visible signs. Hollow cheeks or temples are often the first to show, followed by sagging skin or jowls. Deep wrinkles or folds, like nasolabial folds and marionette lines can become more pronounced too.
These signs can make you look tired or gaunt even if you’re healthy. Knowing these signs is key to getting the right treatments to restore lost facial volume.
Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments for Facial Volume Loss
Addressing facial volume loss doesn’t have to require invasive surgical procedures. Non-surgical methods can restore lost facial volume without surgery. These treatments include:
- Hyaluronic acid fillers
- Biostimulatory injectables
- Microneedling
- Laser treatments
A Board-Certified dermatologist can personalize the best non-surgical restoration treatment plan depending on your needs for optimal results.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers are popular treatments for restoring lost facial volume quickly. These dermal fillers work by holding moisture and promoting skin hydration, leading to smoother skin. These types of dermal fillers are for those looking for more immediate plumpness and rejuvenation to areas of lost facial volume.
How does it work? Filler is injected into targeted areas of the face, such as the cheeks, lips, and jawline, to restore volume and smooth out wrinkles. The instant hydration and volume result in a noticeably more youthful and refreshed appearance right after treatment. This makes hyaluronic acid fillers an attractive option for those looking to quickly improve their facial aesthetics without downtime.
Biostimulatory Injectables
Biostimulatory injectables stimulate natural collagen production which is key to volume restoration, improved skin texture, firmness, and overall rejuvenation. These treatments differ from traditional dermal fillers, which primarily focus on adding volume.
For example, Sculptra® contains Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which works by boosting collagen at the injection site for gradual long-lasting results that can last up to two years depending on your skin condition. Another popular biostimulatory option includes Radiesse® which uses calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres to stimulate collagen production.
By boosting collagen, these injectables firm and tighten skin while enhancing the overall texture and elasticity over time to restore facial volume naturally.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin which stimulates collagen production and skin rejuvenation
The increase in collagen production from microneedling smooths skin and improves overall appearance. This versatile treatment that can be combined with other procedures like dermal fillers or lasers for enhanced results.
Laser Treatments
Laser skin resurfacing and fractional lasers are non-surgical treatments to tighten skin and improve texture. Energy waves heat deep skin layers, stimulating collagen and elastin. While lasers don’t fully restore facial volume, they enhance the effects of other procedures like dermal fillers.
Combination Treatments
Dr. Holman says, “Combining injectables and energy-based laser treatments offer both immediate and long-term improvements to restore facial volume. Our goal is to create personalized treatment plans based on skin condition, the severity of volume loss, age, and desired outcomes. I often recommend a mix of filler, collagen stimulators, and laser treatments to address different aspects of facial rejuvenation and target multiple layers of skin.”
Book a Consultation
Weight loss is an exciting milestone for your health and well-being, and you deserve to feel your best. Don’t let the loss of facial volume and sagging skin keep you from enjoying the confidence in your new skin. Exploring these cosmetic treatment options can restore your youthful appearance and glow.
If you’ve lost facial volume from losing weight, schedule a consultation with U.S. Dermatology Partners using our easy, online request form. We’re ready to help you achieve your most radiant, healthy skin.
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