Sagging skin can be an obvious and frustrating sign of aging. When combined with the effects of gravity, trying to tighten loose skin may seem like a losing battle. Older skin tends to sag because the fibers that once kept it firm, known as collagen and elastin, begin to weaken, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). A number of viable treatment options exist to help firm sagging skin and give it a more youthful appearance.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that focuses specifically on the eye area, according to the American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS).
This invasive procedure consists of surgically lifting the upper and lower eyelids and removing excess skin and fat tissue. For example, raising the eyebrows can keep skin from sagging over the eyes.
Blepharoplasty takes about two hours and can be performed with local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
Laser Resurfacing
Non-invasive laser resurfacing can have tightening effects on the skin while it softens lines and wrinkles, according to the AAD.
Ablative laser devices stimulate collagen production, encouraging skin firming and improving the tone and texture of the skin. It can take up to one year to realize the full effects of laser resurfacing. Additional treatments may be necessary as your skin continues to age.
There are limitations to this generally effective procedure. It isn't able to erase deep wrinkles or severe cases of sagging skin, notes the Mayo Clinic.
Radio-frequency
Non-invasive radio-frequency therapy causes skin to contract and tighten and can help lift the brow, cheeks or the entire face, according to the AAD. This procedure is often used to tighten sagging skin on the lower and upper eyelids.
A study published in July 2007 in "Lasers in Surgery and Medicine" found radio-frequency, when combined with infrared light, had a modest tightening effect on skin. There is no recovery time associated with radio-frequency treatments, and one treatment usually produces the desired results.
Face-Lift
A face-lift treats saggy skin by surgically removing excess skin from the neck and lower jaw line or jowl and tightening the connective tissues and supportive muscles, according to the Mayo Clinic. The end result is typically a more rested and youthful look. A face-lift will not improve wrinkles.
Face-lifts are commonly performed under general anesthesia. Swelling and bruising will be apparent for a number of weeks following the procedure. Results of a face-lift can last as long as 10 years.
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