Solutions for parentheses, jowls & lower face skin laxity? (Photos)

Question

I’m 43 years old. Recently started using retinol a bit more. Wear sunscreen. Have had co2 laser about 8 years ago. Looking for intervention to help with lines around mouth and lower face laxity. Also apparent tendon and puckering on right lateral side of nose to cheek. I suspect filler would correct this last defect. Wondering if FaceTite or ultherapy could help with the skin laxity/jowls? If so, which would be better?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach would give the most improvement. Deep wrinkles and smile lines can be improved with a combination of Botox and/or fillers for the lines themselves and to build anatomical support with Sculptra for collagen building. Ultherapy is a great skin tightening device, but works best in combination with other treatments like J Plasma, RF treatments, lasers, microneedling/PRP, salt facials, Cosmelan for skin tightening and improve skin tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Danielle Shanley, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question!  These are great photos you took.  Based on just your photos, I think you could be a candidate for Facetite or another treatment called Morpheus 8.  Facetite would have a day or 2 down time and the need to where a face garment following the procedure.  You will have swelling, some bruising and mild discomfort.  Morpheus 8 has virtually no down time, but requires a few visits to really maximize your results.  Both procedures use radiofrequency energy to produce results.  Facetite would involve tiny incisions to introduce the hand piece under the skin for treatment, where as Morpheus 8 requires no incisions, but delivers energy through a hand piece placed on the skin. Facetite concentrates on fat reduction and improving skin laxity.  Morpheus 8 concentrates on stimulating collagen production to tighten and remodel skin.  The best way to see if you are a candidate for one of these procedures is to see a provider that offers them.  An in-person visit can really help pinpoint the areas of concern and tailor a treatment plan just for you.  Good luck!

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Your problem is a fairly common one seen very frequently in active cosmetic dermatology practices. It typically responds well to the use of an appropriate cohesive, resilient filler fanned through the area. The relatively expensive "bells and whistles" devices you mention, as well as so many others, unfortunately, are backed far more by marketing hype than hard science. So, a heavy dose of "buyer beware" is advisable when being offered these. Fillers, on the other hand, have stood the test of time for efficacy and are able to achieve very gratifying results in improving jowls and reducing apparent skin laxity.  Make sure to consult a board certified cosmetic dermatologist and be sure to ask to see his/her personal befores and afters prior to agreeing to proceed. Best of luck.

Solutions for parentheses, jowls & lower face skin laxity? (Photos)

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Solutions for parentheses, jowls & lower face skin laxity? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about FaceTite

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.