What Causes Volume Loss?

As we age, our skin gradually loses plumpness and resilience. There are many internal factors at play in this process.

• Collagen and Elastin Decline: production of these critical proteins, which help give our skin structure and elasticity, decreases over time

• Subcutaneous Fat Redistribution: fat beneath our skin diminishes or shifts, resulting in loss of plumpness and a more pronounced appearance of bony structures

• Bone Resorption: the bones of our facial skeleton also undergo resorption with age, which can lead to a deep-seated reduction in facial volume

• Hyaluronic Acid Reduction: declining levels of hyaluronic acid, which naturally occurs in our skin for hydration and volume, cause our skin to appear more deflated and dry

• Cellular Changes: cellular turnover and repair mechanisms slow down, leading to a buildup of aged cells and a slower response to skin damage

Our genetics determine a great deal about the unique way each of us ages. Volume loss can also be affected by:

• Lifestyle Choices: smoking, poor diet and insufficient sun protection can accelerate collagen and elastin breakdown

• Environmental Factors: exposure to UV light and pollutants can diminish skin quality and elasticity

• Hormonal Changes: fluctuations in hormones, particularly for women during menopause, can affect skin density and firmness

As you can see, some of these factors are within our control, while others are not. Positive skin habits and regular skin checks are the foundation of a lifetime of good skin health.

How Does Volume Loss Contribute to Wrinkles?

We develop two types of wrinkles as we age. One type, called dynamic lines or expression lines, is formed by repeatedly contracting our facial muscles. The other, called static lines, occurs in part due to facial volume loss.

As our skin loses its underlying support from fat and bone, it becomes less taut and begins to sag. The lower levels of collagen and elastin affect our skin's ability to snap back when it is stretched. Additionally, the shifting and depletion of our underlying fat may create shadows and depressions that weren't previously visible. All of these factors come together to form deep creases that are visible even when our face is at rest.

If you are interested in restoring volume or reducing the appearance of wrinkles caused by volume loss, book in for a consultation to discuss your treatment options.

Could a Volume Loss Treatment Be Right for Me?

At OLA Aesthetics, we approach each consultation with a focus on personalised care and realistic outcomes. We look at a variety of factors — including your goals, the unique way the ageing process affects you and your overall skin health — to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for a volume loss treatment.

The best candidates are generally those in good overall health with reasonable expectations about the results. These procedures can change or enhance aspects of your appearance but won't alter your fundamental look.

The best way to determine if a volume loss treatment is right for you to be assessed in-person by one of our doctors.

The OLA Experience

Consultation

You will have an initial consultation with one of our doctors to determine which treatment is suitable for you. This is the perfect time to discuss any preferences, questions or concerns that come to mind. Based on this conversation, your doctor will draw up a proposed treatment plan and walk you through the typical treatment process.

Preparation

To minimise bruising, we recommend avoiding blood thinning medications and supplements for at least one week before treatment. Two days prior, avoid using skincare products and hair removal methods that could irritate your skin in the treatment area. Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before your appointment.

Treatment

Your doctor will thoroughly cleanse your skin to ensure all makeup and sunscreen residue is removed. Once your skin is prepped and the treatment locations have been identified, your doctor will administer the volume loss treatment. The procedure generally takes only 10-20 minutes to complete.

What Results Can I Expect From My Treatment?

Volume loss treatments are temporary. Over time, the treated area will gradually return to its pre-treatment appearance. The longevity of the result differs from person to person and the specific type of treatment used.

To extend the effects of your treatment, we may recommend a personalised skincare regimen and periodic follow-up treatments. Protecting your skin from the sun and following a healthy lifestyle can also help prolong the results.