Techniques for Tightening and Lifting the Skin

For hundred, if not thousands of years, mankind has sought out all manner of remedies, youth elixirs, and lost relics to negate our biological clocks and cure the blight of aging. Sixteenth century Spain saw Conquistadors set out in hopes of discovering the healing waters of the fountain of youth. Wild West America was littered with the empty promises of stagecoach salesmen peddling snake oils, salves, and creams to reverse the hands of time. Try as we might, we have failed to discover the miracle cure. However, there are steps we can take to improve our appearance and ensure our skin remains beautiful and radiant – even as we age.

The Role of Collagen

Collagen is an essential protein found throughout our bodies, providing structure, elasticity, and – as is the case with our outermost organ – tight, plump, and wrinkle-free skin. As we age, the collagen levels in our bodies begin to deplete, resulting in fine lines, deep wrinkles, and loose, sagging skin. By investing in products and procedures designed to mimic the effects of collagen or even stimulate our natural collagen production, we can slow the aging process. Juvéderm, Restylane, and Sculptra all promote collagen production, as does Ultherapy.

Injectables

Injectables are a quick fix for targeting loose and wrinkled skin primarily in our faces. If administered routinely, their effects are indefinite. Products such as Botox, Dysport , Radiesse, and Voluma are terrific for targeting specific areas of the face and temporarily reducing the appearance of frown lines, crow’s feet, and other forms of facial wrinkling. Other injectables such as Kybella (which works by melting away the subcutaneous fat that causes the dreaded double chin) are a bit more advanced and are formulated to treat specialized needs.

Body Sculpting and Contouring

These techniques are achieved through various methods including heat and cold transfer to fat cells (through procedures such as CoolSculpting and Vanquish), which help eliminate troublesome and unsightly fat deposits, and thermal energy transfer and skin abrasions such as Exilis Elite, micro-needling, and micro-dermabrasion.

Customized Skin Care Regimens

Though the days of over-promising snake oils and youth elixirs have come and gone, there is still much to be found in cosmetics. Ingredients such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, for example, are simple at-home solutions which aid in firming, tightening, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

There are ways to make your skin look beautiful and youthful without the expense, pain, and inconsistent results offered by invasive medical procedures such as plastic surgery. To determine the best treatment options that meet your needs, schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists.