07/28/2011 - Articles
Skin aging: The pros and cons of facial rejuvenation
By: John Russo, Jr., PharmD
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At first they were random observations. I was the oldest person in the office. Dividend-paying stocks became more desirable than growth equities, and saving was more important than spending - all subtle events.
Then, a teenaged waitress assumed I’d ordered a “senior” coffee.” Vaguely insulted? Yes. Yet, in that moment, I was freed from the illusion of youth to pursue the essentials (and joy) of maturity.
I’ve worked in healthcare as an academic and writer for more than 30 years. Trust me, if you have your health, it doesn't matter that you’re the oldest in the room. Dividends from your youth are what you seek, and health is your ticket to the high life.
There’s no shortage of healthcare recommendations, but few are supported scientifically. Join me here as I examine our options to maintain health and age well. I’ll focus on the factual rather than the hype, with lots of links so you can evaluate the evidence for yourself.
Skin aging: The pros and cons of facial rejuvenation
Is it really important for you to appear young?
On line at the car wash I spied a women with long blond hair accented by her Mercedes SLK roadster. I never saw her face, but I “knew” she was young until she rested her hand and arm on the windowsill. Then, reality set in.
Admittedly, my anecdote probably tells more about me than her, but it’s a reflection of today’s reality. Appearance matters. It’s important to be viewed as dynamic and innovative rather than stagnant and out of touch; and earnings differentials in the labor market confirm the connection, at least in part, to physical appearance. Furthermore, disparities based on physical appearance are not limited to how others view you. A woman's self-assessment of her physical attractiveness, for example, correlates with her earning potential.
The bottom line?
When viewed from this perspective, facial rejuvenation is not a trivial indulgence. Rather, it’s an aspect of career development and longevity. For many seniors it also facilitates social interaction and self-esteem. More and more people agree. Since 2000 the number of elective cosmetic procedures has increased 60% among men and 30% in women.
Whether for work or personal reasons, if you’re considering treatment to help regain a more youthful appearance, here are answers to frequently asked questions.
FAQ: A senior’s introduction to fillers and toxins
Popular treatments for facial rejuvenation span the spectrum from topical creams, to injectable “fillers and toxins,” to surgery. Let’s focus on “fillers and toxins.”
Who is qualified to treat you?
Doctors specializing in aesthetic dermatology, plastic surgery, or ocular surgery with years of experience using fillers and toxins are your best bet for satisfying results. Don't trust your face to anyone not medically qualified.
What’s the risk?
Injecting drugs into the skin has the potential for side effects. The best results require precise anatomical placement of the injection. You don't want this to happen.
Ptosis (droopy eyelid) of the left eye. Copyright 2011. http://www.healthandage.com/.
Will treatment hurt?
Sticking needles in your face is uncomfortable. Your level of discomfort will depend on your doctor’s skill and your tolerance for pain.
How many treatments will I need?
Aging is an ongoing process, and most injectable treatments show visible effects for only 3 to 12 months. If you like what you see after the first treatment, consider a commitment to maintenance — every 3 to 6 months. Practically speaking, your face should appear fuller, without looking like a mannequin.
How much younger will I look?
In one study, patients subjectively thought they looked 12 years younger.
How soon can I appear 12 years younger?
Pace yourself. It took perhaps 50 years to get where you are today. Reversing the process and maintaining a younger appearance is a long-term commitment to costly treatment. Talk to your doctor about starting with rapid onset, short-acting treatments, and then decide if it’s right for you.
Copyright 2011. http://www.healthandage.com/. Vol. 1 #1.
Created on: 07/19/2011
Reviewed on: 07/28/2011
Reviewed on: 07/28/2011
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