By: Taylor Della Vecchio, MSN, APRN, NP-C
One of the most common concerns we hear from clients is, “I hate how my face is falling forward.” Typically, this is followed by a request: “Can we add some filler in my smile lines to smooth that out?”
While filling the nasolabial folds (the lines running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth) is sometimes the right treatment, it’s not always the best approach. In many cases, focusing on the smile lines alone treats the symptom, but not the cause of facial sagging.
The Triangle of Youth and Facial Aging
In the aesthetics world, we often refer to the Triangle of Youth when consulting with patients about facial aging. In youth, the facial structure is shaped like an upside-down triangle, where the widest part is across the cheekbones and the narrowest part tapers down toward the chin.
However, as we age, several factors cause this triangle to invert:
Bone Resorption: The gradual loss of bone density, including in the face.
Fat Pad Shifting and Loss: As we age, fat pads that once provided volume and contour in the cheeks shift downward.
Collagen and Elastin Loss: These essential proteins break down over time, leading to loss of skin elasticity.
With these changes, the bulk of facial volume shifts from the cheekbones to the jawline, which can cause that “sagging” or “falling forward” effect.
The Triangle of Youth
Cheek Filler: The Solution to Restore Facial Balance
The first step in rejuvenating a face with age-related volume loss is to replace the lost structure. By addressing bone loss and fat pad shifting, we can naturally lift and reshape the face.
Cheek filler is one of the most effective treatments for this. By carefully placing filler along the cheekbone, we can:
- Mimic lost bone structure.
- Provide a new framework for the face, similar to how the framing of a house supports everything else.
This framework helps the fat pads “stay in place,” preventing the downward shift that contributes to deeper nasolabial folds. Once the cheek structure is restored, we can then assess where additional volume is needed and gradually add filler to the areas where fat pads have depleted.
This holistic approach can subtly lift the entire face, making the nasolabial folds less pronounced and restoring a more youthful, rejuvenated look.
Why Cheek Filler is a Game-Changer
Instead of directly filling the nasolabial folds, focusing on cheek volume addresses the root cause of aging. Patients often see significant improvements, with a natural lift and balance restored to the face, resulting in:
- A smoother, more youthful appearance.
- Less emphasis on deep smile lines.
- Overall facial harmony without the overfilled look.
If you’re experiencing signs of aging and wondering what treatment will give you the most natural results, cheek filler might be the key to achieving a rejuvenated look that enhances your natural beauty. Call LOU LOU Med Spa today at 405-774-1989 and book your complimentary consultation.
