Rheology of hyaluronic acid and dynamic facial rejuvenation: Topographical specificities.

Sound knowledge of the rheology of hyaluronic acids is fundamental for facial rejuvenation procedures. Hyaluronic acid implants are subjected to complex mechanical forces within the facial tissues that vary depending on the anatomical region. Analysis of these forces is important to establish the rheological specifications of hyaluronic acid implants in each specific zone. This approach will optimize the correction of age-related loss of volume, since the filler will be chosen as a function of the mechanics of the anatomical zone, with the objective to respect facial dynamics.

Facial dynamics and emotional expressions in facial aging treatments.

Facial expressions convey emotions that form the foundation of interpersonal relationships, and many of these emotions promote and regulate our social linkages. Hence, the facial aging symptomatological analysis and the treatment plan must of necessity include knowledge of the facial dynamics and the emotional expressions of the face. This approach aims to more closely meet patients' expectations of natural-looking results, by correcting age-related negative expressions while observing the emotional language of the face. This article will successively describe patients' expectations, the role of facial expressions in relational dynamics, the relationship between facial structures and facial expressions, and the way facial aging mimics negative expressions. Eventually, therapeutic implications for facial aging treatment will be addressed.

Global 3-dimensional approach to natural rejuvenation: recommendations for perioral, nose, and ear rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: There is a move toward a global, 3-dimensional approach to facial rejuvenation that has been prompted by advances in techniques and available products. However, little published literature exists on the procedures involved in this global approach, and currently, no validated recommendations exist. OBJECTIVES: To provide a detailed, practical guide to rejuvenation of the perioral area, nose, and ears based on expert consensus recommendations. METHODS: The aim of this approach was to take into account both volumetric and dynamic aspects of treatment, as well as the benefits of treatment combinations, for example, combining botulinum toxins with hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers and volumizers. Each set of recommendations was documented, comprising a clinical definition of the aging severity scale, together with recommendations of appropriate products, doses, site, depth, and injection techniques, as well as indication-specific rules to be respected. RESULTS: HA fillers are ideal for replenishing volume loss in the lips, while rhytides around the lips can be treated with small doses of botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin can also be used to raise the tip of the nose, to reshape nostrils, and to narrow nasal flare, with HA fillers also be used to correct small defects. HA fillers can also be used to rejuvenate sagging, atrophic or irregular ear lobes, repair torn earlobes, or erase vertical rhytides. CONCLUSIONS: By providing practical guidance on rejuvenation of the perioral area, nose, and ears, esthetic facial physicians can achieve optimum patient outcomes.

Global, 3-dimensional approach to natural rejuvenation: part 1 - recommendations for volume restoration and the periocular area.

BACKGROUND: New techniques and products have lead to a global approach for the treatment of signs of aging. However, there is little published literature on the procedures involved in this approach and currently no validated recommendations exist. OBJECTIVES: To provide a detailed, practical guide to midfacial volume restoration and rejuvenation of the periocular area based on expert consensus recommendations. METHODS: The expert committee took into account both volumetric and dynamic aspects of treatment, as well as benefits of treatment combinations, for example, combining OnabotulinumtoxinA with hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers and volumizers. An aging severity scale was established for each area, together with recommendations of appropriate products, doses, site, depth, and injection techniques, as well as rules to be respected. RESULTS: The expert group concluded that volume restoration of the midface is the first essential step in the global approach because treatment for this area has the most significant positive impact. Firstly, it is important to restore the malar contour, as malar volume anchors the structure of the midface. Secondly, an assessment of the effects of malar enhancement on the appearance of the nasolabial folds and the nasojugal fold (tear trough) should be conducted because these aging signs may be decreased by malar enhancement. Finally, treatment for the nasolabial folds and periorbital area with HA should be performed when needed. CONCLUSIONS: Practical guidance is provided for midfacial volume restoration and rejuvenation of the periocular area based on validated expert consensus recommendations. This will help esthetic facial physicians to achieve optimum outcomes.

How to achieve synergy between volume replacement and filling products for global facial rejuvenation.

The objective of this paper is to provide an expert consensus regarding facial rejuvenation using a combination of volume replacement (Juvéderm(®) VOLUMA(®)), filling products (Juvéderm(®) Ultra product line) and botulinum toxin. The Juvéderm product line exploits innovative 3-D technology, producing a range of cohesive, homogenous gels that produce predictable, long-lasting and natural results. The products are easy to use by practitioners and are well-tolerated by patients, and used in combination can provide additional benefits not achieved with one product alone. An assessment of facial anatomy and consideration of the aging process, as well as available treatment options, are also addressed in determining the best combination of products to use. Outcomes from a questionnaire and workshop sessions focusing on specific aspects of use of the Juvéderm product line and botulinum toxin in daily clinical practice are discussed, and recommendations for product use following debate amongst the experts are provided.