Treating Dynamic vs. Static Wrinkles
Facial wrinkles are one of the most common signs of aging. Most people nervously anticipate the day that they will notice their first wrinkles. In many cases, that day comes sooner than they would have hoped.
The natural effects of aging, combined with repeated exposure to harsh environmental elements lead to skin damage and signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and deep creases. Fortunately, there are numerous cosmetic treatments that can erase signs of aging, including facial cosmetic surgery to smooth and tighten the skin and enhance facial contours.
However, it is important to know what types of wrinkles are present so that patients can receive the most effective cosmetic treatment. Here, Dr. Christopher Hove goes over the differences regarding dynamic vs. static wrinkles, and the treatments our Paoli, PA patients should consider based on which types of wrinkles are present.
Dynamic Wrinkles
Most people will develop dynamic wrinkles before they notice any static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are ones that are associated with facial movement and expressions. These lines and creases may show up when a person is smiling, laughing, or scowling, but they seem to go away when the face is at rest.
Since dynamic wrinkles are caused by muscle movement, they need to be treated differently than static wrinkles. The most effective cosmetic treatment for dynamic wrinkles is BOTOX® Cosmetic.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is an injectable treatment that targets dynamic wrinkles by limiting the movement of certain facial muscles. BOTOX® Cosmetic contains a diluted version of the botulinum toxin. By providing a series of BOTOX® Cosmetic injections, Dr. Hove can isolate certain facial muscles and, in essence, temporarily paralyze them. Dr. Hove is careful to still maintaining patients’ natural appearance and their ability to express emotions.
While BOTOX® Cosmetic is an extremely effective treatment for dynamic wrinkles, patients should understand that the effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic are not permanent. To maintain smooth facial skin, patients will need to repeat treatment every three to six months.
Static Wrinkles
Static wrinkles are deep-set wrinkles that appear on the face even when it is resting. They result from collagen loss, which occurs with aging. Since static wrinkles have nothing to do with facial movement, they would not respond to a treatment such as BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Instead, the best ways to smooth facial skin and eliminate the appearance of static wrinkles is by tightening the skin, or by filling out facial features to prevent sagging and creasing. The two basic options for the treatment of static wrinkles are dermal fillers or facial plastic surgery.
- Dermal fillers: Dermal fillers are cosmetic injections that add volume to facial features that have become saggy or hallow. When the skin is loose or lacks volume, facial wrinkles are likely to develop in those areas. Dermal fillers enhance facial features, improve facial contours, and smooth out the skin to dramatically reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and creases. One thing patients should be aware of is that dermal fillers do not provide permanent results. While the results of some dermal fillers may last up to a year, most patients require maintenance treatment every six months.
- Facial plastic surgery: Facial plastic surgery is the longer lasting treatment for static facial wrinkles. There are a number of plastic surgery procedures that can be performed to smooth the skin, minimize signs of aging, and enhance facial contours. The most appropriate treatment will depend on where wrinkles are present. Dr. Hove may recommend a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or a facelift, depending on each patient’s unique needs.
Learn More
If you have facial wrinkles and would like to learn how cosmetic treatment can restore a more refreshed and youthful appearance, contact us at your earliest convenience. Dr. Christopher Hove can perform a personal consultation to determine what type of wrinkles are present, and how they can best be treated.