Your face contains both dynamic and static wrinkles. The process for minimizing or eradicating these wrinkles differs by type. Top Washington facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Grant of Cascade Facial Surgery & Aesthetics explains the difference between dynamic and static wrinkles and the best treatments for each.
Dynamic Wrinkles
Dynamic wrinkles develop from constant facial movements. These are the lip lines common in smokers due to puckering the mouth while inhaling. They are the smile lines around the mouth, or the squint lines forming around the eyes. Terms like crow’s feet, frown, forehead and laugh lines apply to dynamic wrinkles.
Dynamic Wrinkle Treatment
Botox® is probably the best-known dynamic wrinkle treatment. The brand name is now synonymous with non-invasive wrinkle eradication. Botox® works by blocking nerve signals that make muscles contract. The relaxation of these muscles disguises the wrinkles’ appearance.
The entire Botox® injection process takes up to 30 minutes. Its effects last between three and six months in most patients, after which the procedure is repeated. Many patients find that touch-ups are needed less frequently over the long-term.
Static Wrinkles
Static wrinkles result from loss of collagen tone as the body ages. As collagen strength and organization decline, the skin loses firmness and elasticity. Static wrinkles are sagging wrinkles. Unlike dynamic wrinkles, which depend on muscle action, static wrinkles are always visible. They start out small and slowly get deeper with age.
As time passes, dynamic wrinkles can become static wrinkles.
Static Wrinkle Treatment
Static wrinkles require treatment beyond Botox®. Dermal fillers are an excellent option when volume replacement or restoration is the recommended treatment. Injectable fillers, such as Juvéderm® and Restylane®, contain hyaluronic acid, or HA. This natural substance increases skin moisture while plumping up and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. HA treatments have variable durations of effect. “Soft” fillers, like the ones used for the lips, usually last four to six months, but some of the more firm fillers, like those used to restore lost cheek volume or enhance cheekbones, can last up to two years before retouching is needed.
Alternatives to HA products include Radiesse®. This injectable filler stimulates collagen production. Along with filling in static wrinkles, its collagen-boosting properties can keep these wrinkles at bay longer.
It is also possible to remove unwanted fat from the thighs or belly and inject it into wrinkles. Fat grafting adds volume to the wrinkles, and the effects are long-lasting.
Contact Us
Whether your wrinkles are dynamic, static or a combination of the two, Mount Vernon facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Grant can take years off your face with the appropriate treatment. The result looks natural, not overdone.
If you would like more information on facial plastic surgery procedures and to schedule a consultation, call Cascade Facial Surgery & Aesthetics today at 360-336-1947 or contact us online.
