As we age, our bodies change in many ways. Perhaps the most recognizable changes occur on the face. You may notice a variety of facial changes, from lines and wrinkles to sagging and volume loss. These changes make us look older and perhaps more tired than we really are.
One of the changes that comes with age is thinning lips. Most men and women notice that their lips are becoming thinner in their 30s and 40s. Thinning lips make your face appear stern and older than you actually are. Usually, deep lip wrinkles will occur with thinning lips.
Why Lips Get Thinner As We Age
Collagen is a protein that supports the soft tissue that gives your lips their plumpness. Collagen creates the base for elastin and hyaluronic acid, which are vital to the shape, structure, and suppleness of your lips. It keeps your lips moist from the inside out.
As you age, your body naturally produces less collagen. Also, environmental factors like UV sun ray damage can slow down collagen production.
When collagen production slows down, your skin may begin to sag and droop unattractively. You may begin to notice a loss of volume in certain areas of the face, including the cheeks and the lips.
What We Can Do
If you are bothered by the appearance of thinning lips, there is something you can do.
Lip augmentation may be the solution. Dermal fillers like Juvederm® and Restylane® are very popular for making thin lips look full and plump again. These dermal fillers are a smooth gel that is made of hyaluronic acid, a substance that is naturally present in our skin. Fillers like Juvederm® and Restylane® give lips volume and a more youthful look. The effects of these fillers will last for about six months. If you are happy with the results of your lip augmentation, you will need to continue the treatments to maintain your results.
This popular, non-surgical procedure can make a real difference, but natural looking results from the dermal filler will depend upon the technique of the person doing the injections. That’s why it’s so important to choose a plastic surgeon or their APRN’s for your injections. While many doctors and aestheticians offer lip injections, they may have received their training in a weekend seminar. Only a plastic surgeon and trained APRN fully understands the nuances of the face and has developed the necessary techniques to administer the injections.
To find out if lip injections are right for you, contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation. Harold E. Beam, MD Plastic Surgery is located in Glastonbury, Connecticut, serving residents of Glastonbury, New Britain, New Haven, Hartford and surrounding areas.
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