If you still look tired after a good night’s sleep, it might be time to consider some extra help. A full face-lift tightens the skin on the face and neck, and a blepharoplasty (or brow lift) can fix sagging eyelids. But since these surgical procedures can require up to a month of recovery time, they’re not always the best options.
“Now there are many minimally invasive procedures that can rejuvenate your appearance with little to no downtime,” says Dr. Gregory Branham of Washington University Facial Plastic Surgery Center. “These procedures deal with signs of aging that aren’t addressed by surgery, including changes to the quality, texture and pigmentation of the skin. They can be done in conjunction with a lift, or on their own.”
The board-certified, fellowship-trained experts at the center take a comprehensive approach to rejuvenation. “Each person has a unique way of aging, so we develop an individualized treatment plan for everyone who walks through our doors,” explains Branham, professor and chief of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Washington University. “We discuss your concerns and evaluate your facial structure, aging pattern, skin type and condition. Then we select the most effective and least invasive method to achieve your goals.”
Treatment options vary, notes Dr. John Chi, assistant professor of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Washington University. “Botox can soften or eliminate facial wrinkles, especially around the eyes, and can also be used to lift the eyebrows,” he says. “Peels and lasers can eliminate sun damage, acne blemishes and scarring.” Volume loss, a major hallmark of aging caused by fat redistribution and bone deterioration, can be treated with injectable fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane. “They soften wrinkles and fill out areas that shrink with age, including the lips,” he adds. And a new filler, Juvederm Voluma, treats volume loss in larger areas, such as the mid-face and cheeks. “It’s the only FDA-approved injectable that lasts up to two years.”
Even surgical procedures are less invasive than they used to be. “A mini face-lift or tuck-up can yield excellent results without the extended recovery time of a full lift,” Chi notes. “Cheek or chin implants can also achieve dramatic results. These procedures effectively target specific regions of the face and neck, including a turkey wattle neck or blurry jawline.”
Kate, a 46-year-old working mother of four, didn’t like the loose skin on her lower face and neck. “She came to us thinking she needed a face-lift, but she was concerned about the recovery time,” Branham recalls. “After a 45-minute consultation, we determined all she actually needed was an under-chin tuck-up and some laser resurfacing. We also counseled her on the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle and the necessity of sunscreen. Now she looks and feels terrific.”
You can’t stop the clock. “But you can look like a more youthful, refreshed, well-rested version of your very best self,” Branham says. “We can help get you there.”
[Washington University Facial Plastic Surgery Center is located at 1020 N. Mason Road, Ste. 205, in Creve Coeur. Surgeries and procedures also are performed at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. For more information, call 314.996.3880 or visit facialplasticsurgery.wustl.edu.]
Photo: Bill Barrett
Pictured: Dr. Gregory Branham
