Condition: Saggy Face

August 2, 2024

A few attractive wrinkles can lend character to our faces, especially those delightful crinkles that accompany a genuine smile.

However, when sagging appears, it often fails to enhance our appearance.

Instead, it can make us appear tired, sad, or unapproachable, even when our inner vitality tells a different story.

Understanding the causes and effective treatments for facial sagging is essential for those looking to restore their youthful, vibrant appearance.

What’s a Saggy Face?

Saggy face, also known as facial sagging or skin laxity, is a common concern that arises as we age.

It occurs when the skin loses its elasticity and the underlying muscles and fat begin to droop, resulting in a tired, aged appearance.

Saggy face can affect various areas, including the cheeks, jowls, and neck, and can significantly impact one’s self-confidence and overall facial aesthetics.

Causes of Facial Sagging

Facial sagging is mainly caused by the natural ageing process.

As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, essential proteins that produce structure and elasticity.

In addition, the effects of gravity and repetitive facial expressions can contribute to the breakdown of these proteins, causing the skin to lose its firmness and sag.

Facial sagging can also stem from other various factors, including:

Sun Exposure

Extended exposure to the sun’s UV rays accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres in the skin. These proteins are essential for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and firmness. Without adequate protection, such as sunscreen or a hat, the skin is more prone to sagging and early ageing.

Smoking

Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the body that weakens the skin’s collagen and elastin fibres. Over time, this weakens the skin’s support structure, resulting in sagging, fine lines and wrinkles. Smokers often show more marked signs of facial ageing than non-smokers.

Significant Weight Loss

Rapid or significant weight loss can lead to a loss of skin elasticity and resistance. As the volume of fat decreases, notably on the face, the skin may not retract completely, resulting in sagging and loosening of the skin. This effect is more pronounced in older people or those who have lost weight rapidly.

Genetics

Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to facial sagging. Variations in skin thickness, elasticity, and overall facial anatomy inherited from parents can influence how the skin ages and its propensity to sag over time.

Repetitive Facial Expressions

Continuous facial movements, such as squinting, frowning, or smiling, can contribute to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Over time, these repeated motions can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres, contributing to facial sagging and lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during menopause in women, can affect skin structure and elasticity. Reduced oestrogen levels can lead to decreased collagen production, contributing to sagging and loss of skin firmness.

Poor Skincare Habits

Neglecting proper skincare, such as inadequate moisturisation or cleansing, can accelerate the ageing process and contribute to facial sagging. Without regular care, the skin’s natural protective barrier weakens, making it more susceptible to environmental damage and premature ageing.

How to Treat a Saggy Face?

There are several effective procedures available to treat facial sagging, depending on the severity of the condition and individual preferences.

These treatments range from non-surgical options such as dermal fillers and skin tightening procedures to more invasive surgical procedures such as face lifts and neck lifts.

It is imperative to consult with a qualified aesthetician to determine which treatment plan is best suited to your specific concerns and goals.

Effective Solutions for Saggy Face

Neck Lift

A neck lift is a surgical procedure performed to correct sagging skin and muscles in the neck area. During the procedure, excess skin is carefully removed and the underlying muscles tightened to create a smoother, better-defined neck contour. By helping to improve the overall appearance of the lower face and neck, a neck lift can significantly rejuvenate the patient’s profile and restore a more youthful appearance.

Face Lift

Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a complete surgical procedure designed to treat multiple signs of facial ageing, including sagging skin and deep wrinkles. The procedure involves repositioning and tightening the skin and the underlying tissues of the face and neck. By lifting and smoothing facial contours, the facelift can reduce jowls, reshape the jawline and reduce sagging of the cheeks and neck. This surgical procedure delivers long-lasting results, helping patients to regain a fresher, more youthful appearance.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a non-surgical option for correcting facial sagging and restoring volume to specific areas of the face. These injectable treatments typically contain substances such as hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in the skin, helping to maintain hydration and volume. By injecting dermal fillers strategically into areas affected by sagging, such as the cheeks, temples and around the mouth, a qualified aesthetician can lift and plump the skin, reducing wrinkles and folds. Dermal fillers deliver instant results with minimal downtime, making them a popular choice for those seeking subtle yet effective facial rejuvenation.

Get An Appointment

Take the first step towards a revitalised facial appearance by scheduling a FREE consultation at Auralia Clinic.

Discover how our advanced treatments can tighten sagging skin, restore facial firmness, and rejuvenate your overall facial contour. Say goodbye to saggy face concerns and hello to a more youthful, confident look with Auralia’s expert care.