Ageing gracefully – what are the options?

The beauty of the human race is that we all look different and we can celebrate those differences. But for many people the way that they look, particularly when they start to get older, can begin to create negative feelings and this can have an impact on the way they live their lives. So taking control of this process can be empowering, and help people get back to feeling their best.

There are numerous options when it comes to ageing gracefully, but what are their benefits?

Prevention

The first and most important key to maintaining a youthful appearance is prevention. Choosing not to smoke and limiting sun exposure will not only help to prevent serious illness, but can also help keep wrinkles at bay. You can increase the effect of sunblock by applying vitamin C serum. And while you can’t turn back the clock, you can protect your skin against the signs of ageing.

Early signs

If the damage is already done, medical grade (prescription) skin care products can help to combat the cosmetic effects of skin ageing. They contain active ingredients to counteract effects such as dry or rough skin and fine lines or uneven pigmentation. They also exfoliate the surface layer of skin and stimulate new collagen.

Wrinkle-relaxing injections and dermal fillers can also reduce early signs of ageing without the downtime of surgery. While these treatments are widely available, there are advantages in having them administered by a medical professional who properly understands the anatomy of the face and can ensure the most natural effects.

Mature skin

When your skin has become loose or your wrinkles deep, then surgery can be the most effective treatment. There are a range of surgical procedures available with more and more refinements being developed all the time, but here’s a few of the options:

• Eyelid lifts can brighten the appearance of your eyes by removing excess loose skin that creases around the eyelids.
• Browlifts restore your eyebrows to their original position, which can greatly improve the appearance of heavy, tired-looking eyes.
• Facelifts reposition and tighten the skin and its supporting tissue along the jawline, cheeks and the neck.The type of facelift you choose depends very much on the areas to be treated and the effect you want to achieve.

Bespoke treatments

It’s important that you feel comfortable with your choices and with the Consultant that you choose. Most Consultant Plastic Surgeons will see patients at least twice before surgery to guide them through the options and understand exactly what they are trying to achieve. Treatment plans should be tailored for you and are the best way to achieve a fresher, younger – but still natural looking – you.

Last updated Wednesday 10 February 2016

First published on Monday 27 July 2015