February 27, 2009 | Facial Surgery
2 minute read
A recent ASPS study revealed that the average person’s environment and lifestyle might play a more significant role than genes, at least when it comes to the onset and visible progression of facial aging.
Published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the study analyzed identical twins with contrasting lifestyle factors to visibly check for signs of facial aging.
Surgeon and author Bahman Guyuron M.D. says, “we looked at identical twins because they are genetically programmed to age exactly the same, and in doing so, we essentially discovered that when it comes to your face, it is possible to cheat your biological clock.”
The twin subjects were photographed, surveyed, and members of an independent panel analyzed the data. The results yielded some interesting conclusions about lifestyle and environmental factors and their effect on facial aging.
Perhaps most importantly, researchers observed that subjects over 40 who were heavier than their identical counterpart actually exhibited a more youthful appearance. Dr. Guyuron speculates that this finding provides some scientific basis to support facial rejuvenation through volume restoration – i.e. the correction of facial lipoatrophy with dermal fillers like Radiesse or Juvederm.
Results also revealed a higher perceived age difference in divorced subjects and those who had used antidepressants.