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Facial Plast Surg 2010; 26(5): 350-355
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1265024
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Overview of Current Thoughts on Facial Volume and Aging

David M. Kahn1 , Robert B. Shaw2
  • 1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California
  • 2Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
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Publication History

Publication Date:
17 September 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Facial aging is a dynamic process involving the aging of soft tissue and bony structures. Much is known in regards to how the face loses volume as the soft tissue structures age. Epidermal thinning and the decrease in collagen cause skin to lose its elasticity. Loss of fat, coupled with gravity and muscle pull, leads to wrinkling and the formation of dynamic lines.

The aging process has also been shown to affect the facial bones. Multiple studies suggest that the bony aging of the orbit and midface is a process primarily of contraction and morphologic change. This loss of bony volume and projection may contribute to the aged appearance. In this review, we will demonstrate how specific soft tissue and bony aspects of the face change with age in both genders and what impact these structural changes may have on overall facial aesthetics.

KEYWORDS

Facial aging - facial volume - facial bones - facial fat

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David M KahnM.D. 

Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of General Surgery

Stanford University Medical Center, 770 Welch Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304

Email: david.kahn@stanford.edu