Volume loss is one of the main consequences of ageing.
It is often considered as secondary to lines and wrinkles; yet facial volume underpins the whole appearance and structure of the face.
About volume loss
As we age, our faces lose fat as well as collagen, as natural collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the skin no longer keep pace with the natural depletion rate. In addition, even bone mass deteriorates with age, so the structures that form the shape of the face are diminishing.
Some patients find facial volume loss occurs earlier or more severely than for others. Lifestyle is one factor. Smoking and sun exposure can both cause premature signs of ageing including volume loss. It has been shown that stressful life events accelerate this process. Diet is another thing to consider, as significant weight loss can cause loss of volume. Genetics can also play a part in how facial volume changes over the years.
Symptoms of facial volume loss
Signs of volume loss in mild or early cases tend to start with a slight emptiness, which is usually most noticeable in the the cheeks or temples.
In more moderate cases, patients may also notice the appearance of creases and folds.
In more advanced cases, widespread volume loss results in a gaunt appearance with facial hollows appearing more pronounced. These tend to affect the cheeks, temples and areas beneath the eyes most of all, but can occur anywhere. Patients can feel that they looks gaunt, hollow or drawn.
Volume loss also means that the skin becomes loose and saggy, as it does not have the inner structure to fill it out.
The flattening or hollowing effect of volume loss affects the way light reflects off the skin, making it look dull or dark – a relatively small adjustment in shape can make a significant difference to the overall appearance of the skin, and we believe that this is largely what makes it possible to achieve pleasing results with small amounts of treatment.
Treatments for volume loss
A group of treatments known as Dermal Fillers are available to replace this lost volume, restoring the natural appearance.
The most common areas that we treat are the cheeks and cheekbones, lines and folds around the mouth, jawline, frown lines and temples. Other areas that can be treated include the naso-labial folds, eyebrow and under the eye (tear trough). . Loss of volume in the hands, neck and decolletage can also be treated easily and effectively.
There are 2 main types of filler to consider. Both are temporary in nature, with results lasting from a few months to a couple of years. Results are near instant.
- Hyaluronic acid fillers
- Collagen-stimulating fillers
Alternatively, or alongside use of dermal fillers; treatments are available which work to improve the structure of the skin from the inside, boosting collagen production and natural healing mechanisms so that the skin appears tighter and firmer. These give a smooth and natural looking result which builds in the weeks or months following treatment as the skin’s renewal continues to build.
Subtle volume loss
Where there is a subtle loss of volume and the patient is keen not to overreact, more subtle treatments may be recommended to add minimal additional volume. We’d recommend considering:
Also consider treatments to brighten the skin and improve its texture, as these can be very beneficial.
