Various surgical procedures and other similar techniques can also be used to correct wrinkles. Some medical studies indicate that a combination of treatments provides the most satisfactory results. Individuals who want to control their wrinkles with medical methods should talk to their doctor about what is important to them and which approach will best meet their needs and expectations, the recovery time and the possible results of the procedures.
In laser resurfacing, a laser beam destroys the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, and heats the underlying skin layer, the dermis. This stimulates the tissues in the area to grow new collagen fibres. As the wound from the laser heals, a smoother and firmer layer of epidermis forms. Laser resurfacing cannot eliminate excess or sagging skin.
Laser resurfacing is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with local anaesthesia. In more extensive resurfacing procedures, the individual can be completely anaesthetised. It may take several months for the epidermis layer to heal completely after laser resurfacing.
A newer method using a fractional laser has a shorter recovery time. Risks of laser resurfacing include scarring and lightening or darkening of the skin colour. A technique called fractional resurfacing with a non-ablative laser has a shorter healing time and fewer risks than the ablative technique. Treatment with a non-ablative laser is more suitable for people with moderate wrinkles, as the results of the treatment cause less change. This treatment needs to be repeated more often than ablative treatment. This type of treatment can also be performed with a fractional laser
Photodynamic rejuvenation therapy can treat fine wrinkles caused by sun exposure. Although repeated treatment sessions are needed, the recovery time for this technique is shorter than for laser resurfacing.
In the chemical peeling process, the doctor applies a chemical solution to the skin to remove the upper layers of the skin. After chemical peeling, the regrown skin is smoother. Depending on the depth of the peeling, several sessions of treatment may be needed before you see a difference in the skin. Redness of the skin after treatment lasts up to several weeks. Possible side effects of this wrinkle treatment include scarring, infection and skin discolouration or darkening.
In the dermabrasion technique, the surface layer of the skin is sanded with a rapidly rotating brush. The sanded epidermis is replaced by a new layer of skin. In this procedure, the individual may need to attend more than one session. Possible side effects of the dermabrasion technique include temporary redness, crusting and swelling. It may take several months for the redness to subside and results to be seen.
The microdermabrasion technique is a technique similar to dermabrasion. However, the microdermabrasion technique only removes a thin layer of skin. Although this technique provides small-scale and temporary results, it does not require a multi-session treatment process that needs to be continued for months. However, in individuals with rosacea or small red veins on the face, this may worsen. The individual may notice a slight redness or stinging sensation in the treated areas.
Soft tissue fillers containing fat, collagen and hyaluronic acid may be injected into the wrinkles on the individual’s face. These substances plump the tissues into which they are injected and thus soften wrinkles and stretch marks. The individual may experience temporary swelling, redness and bruising in the treated area. The effect of soft tissue fillers is usually very short-term and temporary.
Fillers, which are frequently used today, are injected into certain muscles in small doses and prevent the muscles from contracting. Since these muscles cannot be moved and tightened by the individual, the skin appears smoother and less wrinkled.
The best results in treatments with fillers; It gives the best results on the cracks between the eyebrows, on the forehead and on the cracks around the eyes. It takes one to three days to see the results of applications with fillers. The effect of the filler typically lasts for several months, but repeated injections are needed to maintain the results achieved.
The facelift procedure involves tightening the underlying muscles and tissues under the skin. This surgical procedure can be performed in hospital or outpatient clinic under local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia.
Recovery time after facelift surgery will be long. Bruising and swelling in and around the operated area usually remain prominent until several weeks after surgery. The results of facelift surgeries are not permanent. Therefore, a new facelift surgery may be required after a few years.
Individuals should remember that the results of all these procedures vary according to the location and depth of wrinkles. Nothing can stop the aging process of the skin, so no matter which treatment modalities are chosen, repeated treatments will likely be needed to maintain the benefits.
Any of the skin rejuvenation procedures may have side effects in addition to those written above. For this reason, individuals should discuss these issues with their doctors in detail. Individuals should ensure that the dermatologists or plastic surgeons they consult are specially trained and experienced in their preferred technique.