Perhaps one of the most popular options for non-invasive facial contouring, are facial fillers. These are easily available in a variety of types to suit different purposes. Filler treatments are easily accessible, and the procedure can be a quick lunch-time one. To explain quite simply, a filler is injected into wrinkles, folds, and curves of the face, to create a smoother, fuller, and more contoured shape; they work by absorbing water to create plumpness or fullness. For example, a filler can help give a lift to cheekbones; elongate the chin, creating a more oval, or heart-shaped face; non-invasively define the jawline; help make the nose bridge higher; perk up lips, or, correct other facial asymmetries you may wish to change. The differing consistencies of fillers serve different needs – thick fillers help in places that need structural support, for example areas such as the temples, cheekbones, or the chin and thinner fillers, for example, help with shaping the lips. Certain other fillers work by stimulating the production of new collagen over time and help volumise the face. The versatility, quick and fairly painless procedure and affordability are the advantages of fillers. Also, side effects and downtime are fairly minimal. However, the results are not permanent and you are likely to have to repeat the procedure.
Another popular procedure, which has become synonymous with face contouring is botulinum toxin. Using botulinum toxin can help reduce wrinkles and can be used to perform more dramatic changes such as narrowing the jawline. Like with fillers, the results here are not permanent, and perhaps every six months, a repeat procedure will be required. However, downtime is minimal, and the procedure is still affordable.
For contouring work around your chin area, reports indicate that Kybella works wonders. This injection contains a substance known as deoxycholic acid that melts fat cells and works well for patients who want to contour the chin area. Although liposuction yields more dramatic contouring results, Kybella is permanent and a great non-invasive option for chin area contouring. Multiple rounds of treatment are needed for optimal results. The injections could be slightly painful and cause some swelling for over one to two weeks post the treatment.
Cryolipolysis is another contouring treatment that can be used to treat a double chin and define the lower face and neck. This treatment works by selectively freezing and destroying fat cells. It results in about 20 per cent fat reduction in the treated area. The treatment requires around 45 minutes and the side-effects are restricted to temporary redness, swelling, numbness, and tingling.
Radiofrequency (RF) is also a popular sculpting treatment where electrical energy generates heat that triggers skin-tightening, and, at higher temperatures, fat melting as well. In the RF procedure, the heat that is generated, results in the creation of new collagen, which in turn results in plumper and tighter skin. RF can be administered non-invasively with topical paddles applied to the skin, or, invasively with micro-needling. The first method has a minimal downtime and the second requires a few days of recovery. Like with cryolipolysis, the optimal results are not visible for a few months and the results are not permanent. However, the risks are usually minimal and the treatment is well-tolerated by patients; RF treatments especially help with re-shaping and tightening the lower part of the face and neck.