CONDITIONS
FACIAL VOLUME LOSS
Volume loss is the source of many of the facial ageing changes we see. It is often seen as a secondary concern to lines and wrinkles, yet volume loss can affect the whole balance and appearance of the face.
The ‘triangle of youth’ is replaced by a square face shape as the cheeks flatten, deep folds form around the nose and mouth, and we lose definition along the jawline. Some patients find themselves ageing quicker as lifestyle is an essential factor in volume loss. Smoking and sun damage can accelerate it as well as stress or significant weight loss. Genetics also play a role.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the signs of facial volume loss?
What causes facial volume loss? There is a combination of factors that occur that contribute to facial volume loss: Collagen and elastin loss: From our 20s onwards, the production of collagen and elastin in the dermis slows down. These naturally occurring components in the skin are responsible for giving firmness and support, so as they decrease, we see the appearance of wrinkles and volume loss that leads to skin sagging. Fat reabsorption: The natural placement of our facial fat is vital for the contours we associate with youth, such as sculpted, rounded cheeks and a defined jaw. As we age, specialised cells in our fat lose their ability to create new fat cells, so the facial fat pads shrink in volume. Loss of collagen and elastin means they also tend to descend towards the jawline. Over time, this results in sagging and hollowing. Bone density loss: bone density reduction can alter the skin’s structural support, leading to sagging. Sun damage: UV radiation can speed up the breakdown of collagen and elastin, resulting in premature facial volume loss. Genetics: some patients are more susceptible to accelerated facial volume loss.
The first signs of volume loss can be a hollowing at the cheeks or temples and flattening of the mid-face area. Over time, creases and folds develop between the nose and mouth, and you start to see the loss of definition along the jawline. Hollows may appear more pronounced in more advanced cases, and jowls may form. Skin becomes loose and sags as it loses the internal support to fill it out.
How to prevent Volume Loss? Everybody will experience facial volume loss to a degree as the body’s natural production of collagen, elastin, and new fat cells slows down, a process that starts in your 20s. However, lifestyle factors play an essential role in how quickly this happens. UV exposure accelerates collagen and elastin loss, so we advise patients to regularly use high-factor SPF sun protection. We also recommend giving up smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
How do you treat Volume loss? Dermal fillers are a highly effective treatment for addressing visible volume loss. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers placed in the temples, mid-face or jawline can immediately restore more youthful facial contours. In recent years, treatments have been developed that stimulate the body’s natural healing responses to regenerate collagen and elastin production or replenish fat cells.