Documented studies reveal that facial symmetry is an element of conventional beauty. Facial cosmetic surgery, combining art and science, can do much to address facial imbalance and restore symmetry to the face. A balanced facial structure is aesthetically preferable and is perceived as an indication of vitality and health.

Gravitational and Intrinsic Changes

Surgeons must address two types of challenges in facial procedures: gravitational changes and intrinsic changes.

Gravitational changes may result in jowls, nasolabial folds, sagging neck, drooping eyebrows, forehead lines, swollen pads under the eye, "crow's feet" (wrinkling around the eyes) or a droopy nasal tip. Intrinsic changes may result in loss of skin elasticity, fine epidermal lines, ultraviolet changes, abnormal pigmentation, lesions and fat depletion. Such changes affect the balance and proportion of facial features.

Aging

Aging, the result of hereditary factors (bone structure), biological factors (demineralization, muscle loss, halt in collagen production) and environmental factors (sun, wind, temperature extremes, pollution), affect the quality and quantity of your skin. Lifestyle choices (alcohol, caffeine, sleep, smoking) also play a role in the aging process.

These factors, along with stress or years of repetitive facial muscle movement (smiling, chewing, squinting), produce visible signs. If performed at the right time—less to do with age than with need, since we all age at different times—a facelift can make you look undeniably younger. Although facial rejuvenation procedures will not stop the aging process, the younger look remains.

Three Pillars of Rejuvenation

The three pillars of facial rejuvenation are:

• S-lift and neck lift
• Forehead lift and upper eyelid blepharoplasty
• Lower eyelid blepharoplasty

These procedures can remove deep skin folds and creases in the mid-face, forehead and eye areas, recontour an unshapely jawline and diminish jowls. They can also smooth and redefine the neckline, and restore the original shape to the eyes and face. The result is a refreshed, youthful, refined appearance.