One of the most apparent signs of aging can be loose skin around the chin and neck, making a person appear to have jowls. For many older patients, this is one of the primary reasons they consult a cosmetic surgeon. Several procedures can be done to treat sagging jowls.
Dermal Fillers
As the body ages, it begins to lose collagen, which can lead to the appearance of sagging jowls. Collagen is a protein that the body naturally produces. It works as the glue to hold the body together and to fill the skin out over the bones, preventing a hollowed and gaunt appearance.
Dermal fillers can replace the body’s natural collagen with a skin volumizer. A series of small injections of the dermal filler is made at targeted areas around the neck and chin. This allows the dermal filler to restore a fuller appearance to the face, making the patient look more rejuvenated. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis and takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Most patients can resume normal activities within two to three days after surgery.
The most common side effects of a dermal filler procedure are bleeding, swelling, and bruising at the injection sites. The bleeding is generally minimal and should subside within 24 hours after the procedure. Patients should use cold compresses and take the herb Arnica montana to reduce swelling and bruising.
The most common risk from a dermal filler procedure is the infection at the injection sites. Patients may be given antibiotics to prevent an infection. Patients should not touch or rub the injection sites with their bare hands. If they need to touch the injection site, the hands should first be washed with antibacterial soap.
Facelift and Neck Lift Surgery
Another alternative to reduce the appearance of loose skin folds around the chin and neck is a facelift or a neck lift surgical procedure. These procedures will tighten up the loose skin on the face. These two procedures can be performed at the same time.
In these procedures, incisions are made along the hairline and possibly near the chin and neck. The skin and tissue are then gently lifted upward, excess skin is removed, and the skin is sutured back into place. The procedures may take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on the extent of work done and combined procedures. Most patients can resume normal activities within one to two weeks after surgery.
Just as with a dermal filler procedure, the most common side effects from a facelift or neck lift surgery are bruising and swelling. Patients will be given a particular compression garment to wear for one to two weeks after surgery to reduce bruising and swelling. Cold compresses and Arnica montana will also help.
There is no reason to accept the effects of aging on the face. Both surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic techniques can restore the face to a more youthful appearance.
*The content in this blog is developed to spread the awareness towards plastic surgery. Our blog is not intended to serve as a replacement for an actual in-office consultation with Dr. Marin. As such, the information within this blog reflects the unique cases of our individual patients.
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