Effects of Aging on Midfacial and Lower Facial Appearance

DOI: 10.12788/j.sder.0101 Effects of Aging on Midfacial and Lower Facial Appearance The aging process changes the skin and the underlying structural support provided by the musculoskeletal system. The pace of change varies considerably from one individual to another. Moreover, tissues changes are interdependent in that age-related changes in one tissue can influence subsequent alterations in other tissues.1 Decreased cranial support leads to soft-tissue descent in the midface. Loss of tone in supporting musculature, increased laxity in retaining ligaments, and descent of suborbital fat pads exacerbate the downward anatomic shift. Reabsorption occurs along the mandible and maxilla, accompanied by loss of dentition. Essentially, the midface and lower face appear to collapse.