Why Does the Face Lose Volume As You Age?

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Facial volume loss is an inevitable part of getting older. Over time, you may notice a loss of contours in your facial features — your cheeks may look more sunken, your lips may appear thinner, and reduced volume may also be evident in the temples and hands. There are many reasons why premature signs of aging begin to develop, but the main culprit behind facial volume loss is diminishing collagen and elastin production. According to doctors and dermatologists, individuals lose approximately 10 percent of their natural production of these proteins by the time they’re 30 years old. Furthermore, the rate at which collagen and elastin production declines usually increases around the age of menopause. 

While nothing can stop your natural levels of collagen and elastin from decreasing, there are still highly effective solutions available to slow down the aging process. Dr. Geoffrey Leber, our board-certified plastic surgeon based in Boston, offers both surgical and non-surgical options to rejuvenate the face and restore lost volume in the temples, cheeks, lips, and other areas that appear flat or sunken. Injectables like JUVÉDERM® and Restylane® can provide natural-looking rejuvenation by adding fullness to features affected by volume loss, often achieving results that last as long as 18 months. For patients who would like a more lasting outcome than fillers can provide, facial fat grafting surgery can reintroduce volume into sunken areas using your own fat. This offers a relatively more natural enhancement than dermal fillers, and results often last for years — if not indefinitely. Our team can help you determine the right treatment based on your concerns and overall goals. 

The changes in your facial appearance caused by aging can be distressing, but Dr. Geoffrey Leber can discuss your concerns with you and provide potential solutions to help you achieve your goals. Contact Dr. Leber and our friendly office team to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our facial rejuvenation services.