Treatments for Wrinkles

There are several cosmetic techniques available for reducing wrinkles. They include both non invasive and surgical methods:

Microdermabrasion: This technique involves the use of a machine which contains small crystals made of either silica or aluminum. The crystals spin in a rapid fashion and act as exfoliant of skin. Microdermabrasion is best for the very superficial skin wrinkles. It has no effect on the deeper skin wrinkles or blemishes. It acts like a very soft sandpaper and after the procedure, the skin is fine and smooth to touch. There are many home varieties of microdermabrasion products but these are essentially useless.

Dermabrasion: This is a more invasive procedure and is usually performed by a physician. It involves the use of a rotating instrument which essentially sands down the skin. It peels of the top layers of the skin. The depth of abrasion is controlled by the amount of pressure generated by the physician. It requires skill and experience to generate a good result. It does erase the superficial wrinkles but also has a few side effects which include permanent scarring and discoloration of the skin

Laser resurfacing: Today lasers are used to treat a wide variety of skin disorders and wrinkles are no exception. Lasers can resurface the skin and eliminate wrinkles. Lasers are generally more precise than dermabraison and produce equally good results. Laser is a mildly painful procedure and most patients require some type of anesthesia- either intravenous or local. Most laser treatments have to be repeated and the final result may take weeks or even months to show up. Lasers can also cause permanent scarring and skin discoloration.

Non-ablative laser resurfacing: Advances in lasers have improved their use in cosmetic surgery. The non ablative lasers can even stimulate collagen synthesis without causing damage to the skin layers. The non ablative lasers are useful in the treatment of superficial lasers and several treatments are required. These newer lasers are less painful, have fewer side effects and most individuals can return to their normal life style immediately.

Heat and radiofrequency: Besides lasers, radiofrequency probes are also utilized to treat wrinkles. Probes are currently being investigated for safety.

Surgery: Wrinkles can even be treated with various types of plastic surgery procedures like facelifts and brow lifts. The surgery is good for some individuals who have failed the above less invasive procedures

Botox: Injection of botulinum toxin is now widely used to treat wrinkles. It can treat lines on the entire body, but the results are temporary. The product is safe and most people require multiple injections to maintain the wrinkle free look

Dermal fillers: Various fillers are now available to treat wrinkles. All of them are temporary and the wrinkle free look may last anywhere from 3-9 months. The latest generation of dermal fillers are genetically engineered and have little allergy risk. These latest product are more durable and longer lasting.

To erase wrinkles, one should se a physician with experience with a variety of procedures. One should read about the procedures and be aware of the potential side effects. There are numerous health care professional who perform various procedures to treat wrinkles.

For your safety, consult with your physician before you decide about any procedure.

Like everything in medicine, there are a lot of horror stories about cosmetic surgery gone awry.