It’s safe to say few people look in the mirror every day and are completely happy with what they see. Human beings tend to be fickle. We want perfection. Of course, this isn’t realistic, but most of us are always looking for ways to improve our appearances and therefore our self-confidence. Two statements are true at the same time when it comes to taking care of your facial appearance: Having good to great skin largely depends on your own lifestyle choices. And, no matter how meticulous you are with self-care there will be conditions you can’t combat on your own. Sound contradictory? At first glance, perhaps, but we’ll get to the differences between the two in a moment.
The difference between issues of self-care and when you need a professional
How can you be both responsible for taking care of your skin but also powerless when it comes to your facial appearance? It’s important to designate the difference. A big topic when it comes to the subject of aging is sun damage. Roughly 80% of skin issues that people regard as making them appear older has some relation to UV exposure. While it’s impossible to control everything when it comes to the sun, a lot of the damage is preventable if the right precautions and lifestyle changes are made. In this instance, you have some control.
What you don’t have control over are issues related to the undeniable effects of aging, gravity, and genetics. In these instances, you’ll want to contact a plastic surgeon about what your options are. The natural softening of the face with time, which causes issues like sagging skin, drooping, and a sunken in look, doesn’t respond quite as well to self-care. If it did, we’d all look 25 well into middle age with the proper habits. Reversing some of the effects of time is definitely within the realm of cosmetic surgery.
That’s the basic difference between two similar issues. Let’s go a bit more in-depth. First, we’ll talk about how important self-care is and the kinds of facial blemishes that can be countered with a good regiment. Then, we’ll take a look at some cosmetic procedures your plastic surgeon may recommend to resolve some of the facial issues you’re concerned about, but won’t necessarily respond to things like exercise or skin creams.
What you can do starting today
Circling back to the significant effects of sun damage, clearly wearing sunscreen is key. While it’s considerably difficult to do anything that can reverse the damage that has already been done, you can prevent new damage. What many people don’t realize is it’s not just days laying out on the beach that damages your skin. You are exposed to harmful UV rays anytime you go outside. Any day you’re outside for significant amounts of time should be a day you wear sunscreen.
Don’t skimp on hydration either. Sun damage and low water intake can be what’s contributing to your wrinkles. Your skin needs nourishment. Hydration is a major part of that. Invest in a good moisturizer and drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Not only will you feel better, but you should see more of a youthful “glow” over time if you address this critical part of your skin health. A healthy diet and consistent exercise has far reaching benefits. You might be focusing on your heart health, but your skin will thank you, too.
What your plastic surgeon can do for your
No amount of exercise or moisturizing can really counter issues like drooping or the disappearance of youthful looking fat in the face. This is why you should speak with your plastic surgeon. It’s true that wrinkles and some other signs of aging can be reduced with the right products. However, you’ll want to go over some cosmetic surgery options to deal with the loose skin under your jawline. Procedures like a facelift in combination with a neck lift could benefit you. You may also opt for injectables like Botox to give your face a more youthful appearance. Don’t discount the positive benefits that “simpler” procedures like chemical peels can have either. Think of your plastic surgeon as a partner that helps you get to the finish line when it comes to loving your appearance.
Conclusion
Are you tired of, well, looking so tired? Do you look in the mirror and notice things that make you feel less than your best? Plastic surgery could be right for you. While it’s important to do everything you can to lead a healthy, active lifestyle, sometimes that’s just not enough. We can help. Contact us today. Dr. Michael R. Macdonald and his team are dedicated to providing you with the top of the line care you deserve. Schedule a consultation today and find out what kind of procedure would be the best for you.