What To Do About Sagging Skin
Sagging skin is a common concern that can affect the overall appearance and confidence of individuals. This is mostly obvious on the jowls, neck, lips and under the eyes. However, there is a range of non-surgical solutions and saggy neck treatments which can tighten and rejuvenate the skin.
Why Do I Have Saggy Skin?
As we age, the production of collagen and elastin depletes which causes skin laxity. Over time, gravity also exacerbates the drooping of skin. Lifestyle choices and sun exposure do accelerate the ageing process, and so sagging skin may be more noticeable on some people in comparison to others.
Many experience loose skin after weight loss as the fat pads in the face start to drop. It can make the under eyes look sunken or hollow, enhance loose skin under the chin and sagging cheeks or give the neck a crepey appearance.
Treatments for sagging skin:
Morpheus8
Morpheus8 is cutting-edge, non-surgical treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy to remodel and contour the face and body. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, Morpheus8 tightens and firms the skin. It is particularly beneficial for areas like the jawline, neck and cheeks, where droopy skin is common.
Treatment: Most benefit from 3 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Treatment time: 45-60 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas being treated.
Downtime: Minimal but expect redness and slight swelling for 1-3 days.
Results: Full results continue to develop over 4-12 weeks.
2. Dermal Fillers
Dermal Fillers help to lift and firm sagging areas by replacing lost volume. They can effectively replenish lost volume in areas such as the cheeks, temples, and under-eye hollows. By restoring volume, dermal fillers lift and rejuvenate your face, getting rid of loose skin.
Treatment: Either a needle or cannula technique will be used to inject dermal filler under the skin.
Treatment time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Results: Best results can be seen after 2 weeks, lasting for 9-18 months.
Recovery time: Immediate.
3. Profhilo
Profhilo is a revolutionary injectable treatment that hydrates the skin and stimulates collagen and elastin, improving skin tone and texture. By stimulating the production of these vital proteins, Profhilo tightens and lifts the skin. It is an excellent solution for patients seeking to combat signs of ageing and sagging, without changing the shape and structure of their face.
Treatment: A needle is used to inject Profhilo under the skin.
Treatment time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Results: Profhilo lasts for approximately 6 months and requires 2 initial treatments 4 weeks apart. They are noticeable after 1-2 weeks.
Side-effects: Mild swelling may occur initially which usually calms down after 6-12 hours.
4. Microneedling
SkinPen Microneedling is a state-of-the-art cosmetic treatment that utilises advanced microneedling technology to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. It is a minimally invasive procedure which creates micro-injuries to the skin, triggering the skin’s healing response. New collagen and elastin fibers are produced which leads to firmer and smoother skin, reducing the appearance of loose skin. Its ability to enhance skin firmness and elasticity makes it an excellent option for those experiencing skin laxity.
Treatment: A medical device creates multiple ‘injuries’ to the skin using very fine needles. Active skincare products are also able to penetrate more deeply into the skin for increased efficacy.
Treatment time: 60 minutes.
Results: Best results are seen at 4 weeks, lasting for 6 months
Recovery time: Immediate (minimal downtime)
5. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP is a cutting-edge regenerative treatment that utilises the natural healing properties of your own blood to rejuvenate and firm the skin, reducing the appearance of loose skin.
PRP contains a concentrated amount of platelets, growth factors, and other essential proteins that promote tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and cellular regeneration.
Treatment: The body’s own blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate it into the liquid part (plasma) and red blood cells. This is injected into the face with a small needle.
Treatment time: Approximately 1 hour (including venepuncture, centrifuge time, and injecting the PRP).
Side-effects: mild inflammation which settles after 24-48 hours.
Results: usually 4-6 weeks, with more than one treatment recommended for the best results.
6. Polynucleotides
Polynucleotides enhance skin hydration and elasticity, reducing the appearance of a sagging face. They are biological protein messengers which are the building blocks of DNA, with natural healing and regenerative properties. They are extracted from salmon or trout DNA which has potent hydrating and tissue-regenerating abilities, which can tighten and lift the skin.
Treatment: A needle or cannula technique will be used to inject polynucleotides under the skin.
Treatment time: 30 minutes
Recovery time: Immediate
Results: Best results seen after 4 weeks, lasting for 6-12 months.
If you’re interested in any aesthetic treatments for sagging skin, Dr. Ed Robinson offers comprehensive consultations to find the best treatment option for you.
Dr. Ed has clinics in Hale, near Manchester, and London’s Harley Street.