What causes aging of the face above the chin line?
Gravity, skin laxity and damage, muscle weakening and fat loss above the chin cause many of the aging changes which are most apparent. Contrary to popular belief, facial aging above the chin line is caused by fat loss, not fat gain. That is why many patients who are moderately overweight have youthful facial skin, with fewer wrinkles, and why many over 35 years of age (who are in superb shape and very thin) have premature aging and “hollowness” of the face, with creases and wrinkling. In general, fat and muscle mass retention from the upper chin to the forehead causes a more youthful appearance. A study of any of the women’s magazines will show you that aging begins by hollowing beneath the eyes, across the upper cheekbone, in the “hollows” beneath the cheekbone, and around the mouth and lips, which thin and wrinkle.
