Facial Skin Sagging

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and its elasticity and firmness play a key role in both aesthetic appearance and functionality. When the connective tissue and structures of the skin weaken, the skin loses its firmness and begins to sag. For example, sagging neck skin can be aesthetically bothersome and give an aged appearance, even if it's not related to aging. The extent of the problem varies from fine lines to noticeable sagging, but the common factor is the lack of skin elasticity and weakened connective tissue.

Sagging is particularly noticeable in areas with thinner skin, such as the neck, abdomen, and arms. Loose neck skin may appear as fine wrinkles, poor skin elasticity, or clear sagging. Similarly, loose abdominal skin after pregnancy or sagging skin after weight loss are common situations where the skin has not fully recovered from stretching. Skin sagging is not just a cosmetic issue – it can also impact a person's body image and self-esteem, especially when the change is clearly noticeable.

Why Does Skin Sag?

Skin sagging is caused by many factors, which can be both internal and external.

• Aging is one of the most significant causes. As we age, the skin's ability to produce collagen and elastin, which provide elasticity and structure, naturally decreases. This leads to the skin not recovering as well after stretching or changes. This is particularly noticeable in the neck and face but also affects the abdomen and thighs. In addition to aging, hormonal changes, such as decreased estrogen levels during menopause, can weaken the skin's support structures.
• Lifestyle factors also have a significant impact. Smoking, an unhealthy diet, insufficient water intake, and excessive exposure to UV rays weaken the skin's renewal ability and accelerate sagging. For example, UV rays damage the skin's connective tissue and prevent collagen formation, increasing wrinkles and skin laxity.
• Pregnancy causes significant stretching of the abdominal skin, and recovery depends largely on skin elasticity and genetic factors.
• The same applies to weight loss: when weight drops rapidly, the skin may not adjust to the body's new proportions. Loose skin after weight loss is a common phenomenon, especially for those who have lost a significant amount of weight in a short period.

How Does Skin Sagging Appear?

Skin sagging can appear in various ways and progress through different stages. One of the most common forms is sagging neck skin, which may start as fine lines and a slight loss of skin elasticity. This is often the first sign of sagging. In more severe cases, the skin begins to visibly droop, which can affect not only appearance but also the functionality of the neck's skin. In the abdominal area, the problem is usually related to either the post-pregnancy period or the consequences of weight loss. Loose abdominal skin may appear as fine lines or be more significant, where the skin visibly sags.

Skin sagging can be divided into three stages:

• Stage 1: The skin loses some elasticity, but sagging is not yet significant. This stage is often correctable with non-invasive treatments.
• Stage 2: Sagging becomes more noticeable, especially in the neck and abdominal areas. The skin no longer recovers naturally, and firming treatments are necessary.
• Stage 3: The skin sags significantly, and connective tissues are damaged. This stage often requires surgical procedures such as a tummy tuck or neck lift.

Skin sagging also varies depending on the area affected. The neck, face, arms, abdomen, and thighs are prone to changes, but the issue manifests differently in each area. For example, neck skin may wrinkle due to its thinness, while the abdominal area can experience more extensive sagging due to significant stretching.

What Helps with Skin Sagging?

Skin sagging can be treated with several different methods. Here are the most effective treatment options:

• EXION Fractional: This treatment combines monopolar radiofrequency and microneedling to deliver energy deep into the skin with precision. It can improve skin firmness and smooth its texture. When performed regularly, it can also restore elasticity and reduce sagging.
• EXION Face: Combines AI-guided radiofrequency energy with targeted ultrasound to stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid in the deep tissue layers. The result is firmer skin and less wrinkles.
• EMFACE: A modern, non-invasive facelift treatment that targets both facial skin and muscles. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, helping to tighten sagging skin and smooth wrinkles. It is particularly effective for age-related changes in the face.
• EMFACE Submentum: An effective device-based treatment that tightens and contours the under-chin area using muscle stimulation and radiofrequency energy, which together strengthen the muscles, tighten the skin, and reduce fat tissue.
• EMFACE Eyes: A next-generation treatment that tightens the skin around the eyes and lifts the brows by combining electrical muscle stimulation and radiofrequency energy, which work together to strengthen muscles and improve skin structure.
• COG Thread: Thread lifts tighten loose skin by mechanically lifting the tissue and stimulating collagen production, resulting in firmer and more defined skin without surgery.
• Aesthefill: Aesthefill treatment firms loose skin by stimulating deep collagen production, improving skin structure, elasticity, and gradually restoring natural volume over time.
• Biorevitalization: This method delicately tightens sagging skin by deeply hydrating it with pure hyaluronic acid and activating the skin's natural regeneration process, improving elasticity, texture, and firmness.
• PRP with Hyaluronic Acid: This treatment combines platelet-derived growth factors and hyaluronic acid to renew and deeply hydrate the skin, naturally improving elasticity, texture, and firmness.
• Profhilo Face: A tightening and hydrating treatment that stimulates collagen and elastin production while increasing hyaluronic acid levels in the skin. This enhances elasticity, structure, and radiance across the entire face.
• Profhilo Structura: This skin-laxity treatment tightens loose skin by stimulating deep tissue regeneration and collagen production, which strengthens skin structure and restores volume, especially in the lower face and jawline.
• Collagen supplements: Collagen-based dietary supplements can support skin firming by improving its structure from within.
• Ultrasound treatment (HIFU): Targeted ultrasound stimulates deeper skin layers and helps tighten sagging skin.
• Laser treatments: Promote skin renewal and improve elasticity. Especially effective for the face and neck area.
• Surgical skin tightening: Suitable for severe skin laxity. Commonly used for treating the abdominal or neck area.

The choice of treatment depends on the degree and location of skin laxity. Consulting a specialist helps determine the most suitable option.

Combination Treatments

• EXION™ Face + EMFACE™ Combination: Treatments which meet the needs of a wider patient group: they satisfy patients of all age groups, serve those who cannot or do not want to receive injections or surgery, and also complement injection and surgical procedures perfectly.
• EXION™ Fractional + EMFACE™ Combination: An excellent combination for facial skin correction, lifting, and hydration. It restores skin firmness, elasticity, and texture while smoothing scars and skin surface.

With these various treatment methods, skin sagging can be addressed gradually and systematically. There is certainly a suitable solution to meet each individual's needs and goals.