There’s no denying that the popularity of cosmetic procedures continues to surge, what with people looking to have more control over how they look and feel. One of these wonders that have been commonplace in the beauty industry is face contouring. Its main objective is to boost the appearance of the face by altering its shape and structure.
In recent years, several innovative techniques in facial contouring and health management have sprouted. This is due to the increasing need for non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques that target skin concerns and health issues. Continue reading for a detailed discussion of some of these approaches.
1. Injectables
These are popular cosmetic solutions due to their effectiveness, safety, shorter procedural time, and quicker recovery. How do they work? They deliver substances to specific areas of the face to address different types of aesthetic concerns.
For example, Kybella is used to eliminate unwanted chin fat by sending deoxycholic acid directly into the submental tissue.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is another injectable that can be used to reduce wrinkles. It fills in the creases and smooths out fine lines. It’s mostly used around the eyes, forehead, chin, and lips to restore a more youthful contour.
Performing these treatments doesn’t require incisions or anesthesia, making them the perfect option for those who have low pain tolerance. Moreover, since it has a very short recovery time, patients can go back to their normal routine right after the procedure.
2. Ultrasound-assisted fat reduction
Ultrasonic liposuction, or UAL, is a minimally invasive technique that uses ultrasound to liquefy fat cells before they’re suctioned out of the body. What happens here is that excess fat is effectively removed from specific areas of the body, mostly arms, abdomen, and thighs.
As low-intensity ultrasound is emitted to the targeted area, the fat cells vibrate and rupture, releasing the contents. A cannula will then be used to suction the liquefied fat from the body. This option is ideal for people with localized areas of excess fat that diet and exercise have not been able to remove.
The recovery time of UAL is usually short, though you’ll experience some bruising and swelling on the treated area. To add, you’ll have to wear compression garments for some weeks to promote healing and support the skin.
3. Radiofrequency skin tightening
This cosmetic procedure uses radio waves to heat the deep tissues of the skin, which triggers collagen and elastin tissues to contract and thicken. The result? The skin smoothens and tightens, removing fine lines and wrinkles.
Radiofrequency tightening is a simple procedure and can be performed by a dermatologist or in a medical spa. It takes between 30-60 minutes to complete, and because it’s painless, the patient can go on with their daily routine right after.
The results are usually gradual, as the skin will continue to tighten for several months before reaching the target outcome.
It’s an ideal choice if you’re seeking to improve skin appearance without going under the knife. It can help address conditions such as sagging skin around the face, neck, and décolletage, promoting a youthful appearance.
However, remember that it’s not a permanent solution, and multiple treatments may be needed to maintain the skin.
4. Thread lifting
An alternative to traditional surgical facelifts, thread lifting offers a less disruptive approach to face rejuvenation. In this procedure, threads are inserted beneath the skin to lift and tighten any sagging tissue. This will then provide a more contoured and youthful face.
The ideal candidate for this treatment is anyone with mild to moderate sagging in the cheeks, neck, or midface. You should also not have any history of severe allergies or autoimmune disorders.
While this approach is generally non-invasive, it should be done by a licensed practitioner to avoid complications such as thread migration, nerve damage, and infection.
But if the procedure is done the right way, you’ll get a natural-looking face (not overly stretched or artificial). Additionally, the process is shorter than in traditional facelifts.
5. Gene editing and stem cell therapy
Gene editing allows scientists to make specific changes to the cells’ DNA to correct genetic mutations that can cause diseases or introduce new cells that can help treat diseases.
For example, scientists can use clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) gene editing approach to target and remove bacteria that cause acne and clogged pores.
Meanwhile, stem cell therapy is a treatment that involves injecting stem cells to repair damaged organs. It can also be used for the purpose of rejuvenating the skin and promoting collagen production.
This therapy is believed to have anti-aging properties as it can help repair damaged skin tissue and stimulate the production of new cells.
Final Thoughts
The realm of facial contouring keeps evolving with the times, and there’s no sign of stopping anytime soon. It keeps on creating and developing techniques that aim to improve the appearance and structure of the face in ways never seen before.
Through innovative solutions such as injectables, gene editing, and UAL, people can now combat excess fat, sagging skin, and acne scars, to name just a few.
