February 27, 2009 | Facial Surgery
4 minute read
Aging Gracefully Might Be Less About Genes Than You Think
If you’ve always believed that your genes determine how you age, a new study might have you thinking twice. A recent research project published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has revealed that lifestyle and environment may have an even greater impact on facial aging than DNA—especially after age 40.
The study, published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, focused on identical twins to isolate genetic variables and highlight the true effects of lifestyle choices on the skin’s aging process.
The Study: Why Identical Twins?
Identical twins share the same genetic makeup, making them ideal candidates for studying how external influences affect physical changes over time. The researchers, led by Dr. Bahman Guyuron, took professional photographs of the twins and collected detailed lifestyle information through surveys.
An independent panel then evaluated the images to assess visible signs of aging such as:
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Wrinkles
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Skin laxity
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Discoloration
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Volume loss
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Sagging
The study’s conclusion? Lifestyle factors have a major influence on facial aging, often making one twin look noticeably older than the other—despite having identical genes.
Key Findings on Facial Aging
Several lifestyle habits and personal circumstances stood out as significant contributors to premature aging:
1. Weight Differences After Age 40
Among twin pairs over the age of 40, the heavier twin was perceived as more youthful than the thinner one. Why? Facial volume loss is a key aspect of aging, and a slightly fuller face may help reduce the appearance of:
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Hollowed cheeks
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Deep nasolabial folds
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Under-eye bags
This supports the growing use of dermal fillers such as Juvederm® and Radiesse®, which restore lost volume and provide a more youthful contour without surgery.
2. Divorce and Stress
Twins who had gone through a divorce were consistently rated as appearing older than their sibling. Chronic emotional stress—whether due to divorce or other major life events—can increase cortisol levels, weaken collagen, and impair the body’s ability to heal.
This finding underscores the importance of stress management in a comprehensive anti-aging plan.
3. Antidepressant Use
Interestingly, those who reported taking antidepressants also appeared older than their counterparts. While the reason behind this correlation remains unclear, some speculate that these medications may affect facial muscle tone or skin elasticity, or that underlying depression may impact health and self-care habits.
4. Sun Exposure, Smoking, and Skin Care
Though already well-known, the study confirmed once again that sun damage and smoking are top contributors to premature skin aging. Twin pairs with differing histories of sunscreen use or tobacco consumption showed significant differences in:
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Wrinkle depth
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Skin texture
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Pigmentation
On the brighter side, consistent skin care regimens, especially those involving medical-grade products, were associated with more youthful, even-toned skin.
What This Means for You
This study reinforces that while genetics provide a foundation, your daily habits and lifestyle choices are critical to how you’ll look and feel as you age.
Here at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Eugene, we offer several treatment options to help you “cheat your biological clock” safely and effectively—whether you’re just starting to notice fine lines or looking to restore lost volume and elasticity.
Non-Surgical Options for Youthful Skin:
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Botox® and Dysport® to relax dynamic wrinkles
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Juvederm®, Radiesse®, and other fillers for volume restoration
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Fraxel® laser skin resurfacing for tone and texture
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Thermage® for non-invasive skin tightening
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Medical-grade skincare to maintain results at home
Each treatment plan is customized by Dr. Lee B. Daniel and our expert team to suit your facial structure, skin concerns, and personal goals.
Want to Age on Your Own Terms?
Aging is inevitable—but looking older than you feel doesn’t have to be. With the right balance of care, treatment, and healthy living, you can preserve your youthful glow well beyond your 40s.
📞 Call us at 541-687-8900 or schedule your consultation to learn more about anti-aging treatments in Eugene.