This is often referred to as sagging or drooping or thinning of the skin. Droopy jowls, crepey skin on the back of the hands, loose saggy skin on the elbows, arms, thighs, and knees are generally thought of in this category.
The visible outer layer on the skin surface called the epidermis acts as a protective barrier. Underneath that is the elastin and collagen-rich tissue called the dermis. The subcutaneous layer below that is the fat layer, with a web of collagen fibers running through it. Aging, weight fluctuations, and sun exposure contribute to the breakdown of the elastic tissue and collagen in these skin layers. This causes the skin to sag, and wrinkles, jowls, and “bags” form. Naturally, treatments that work on just the surface can’t do anything to restore the collagen or elastic tissue in the under-layer, or the deep dermis of your skin. Fortunately, there are non-invasive treatments that can help many patients postpone invasive surgical tightening of the skin.
The physicians at MDLSV have developed multiple technologies to assess their safety and effectiveness, and have published and lectured on the subject extensively. Treatment falls into two main categories. Noninvasive tightening of the skin through laser and the newest treatments such as the Ulthera or Exilis procedures can be very helpful. Volume restoration with fillers such as Restylane™ and Perlane™, Juvederm™, and Radiesse™ can help lift sagging areas of the face.
Sagging Skin Before and After
