It’s a shame that the things that make us happiest in life can also make us look older faster. Decadent foods, sunshine, and other lifestyle choices can accelerate the aging process, but are fine if enjoyed in the right way, and in moderation. But what about our most basic expressions? You may have heard, for instance, that smiling can give you wrinkles. It may seem ridiculous to believe that simply expressing your emotions could have an impact on how quickly you age, but it’s not as far-fetched as it may seem. So what is the truth about the effect of smiling on facial wrinkles?

Bad News

Have you ever heard of laugh lines? Laughter may be good for the soul, but it’s not so good when it comes to looking young. Making the same facial expressions over and over again, including smiling, laughing, frowning, and puckering the lips can take its toll over the years, resulting in stubborn wrinkles. These wrinkles are known as “dynamic” wrinkles, and they can often be deep and persistent. The most common sites for dynamic wrinkles are at the corners of the eyes (“crows’ feet”), the “frown lines” between the eyebrows, forehead wrinkles, and wrinkling around the lips.

What Can You Do to Prevent Dynamic Wrinkles?

It’s simply not realistic to try to limit your facial expressions in order to help prevent dynamic wrinkles. At best, you’ll constantly be worried about the aging process, and at worst, you’ll be perceived as emotionless. The best thing you can do to prevent dynamic wrinkles is to lead a healthy lifestyle to minimize signs of aging as long as possible. Eventually, however, we all start seeing some wrinkling when our faces are at rest, and at that point, treatment is the best option.

How Can Dynamic Wrinkles Be Treated?

One of the best things about dynamic wrinkles is how easy they are to treat. The most popular treatment in the United States currently is the Botox Cosmetic injection, a temporary fix for dynamic wrinkles in various areas of the face. The formula is made from a safe form of botulinum toxin, which helps to partially limit the movement of facial movements in the face for a more youthful appearance. Relaxing specific facial muscles softens and eases dynamic wrinkles for about three to four months. The treatment is very simple, involving just a non-invasive injection process that is brief and involves no downtime. Only minor side effects, like slight swelling and bruising are common, and these subside quickly. Patients start seeing the results within about a week.

However, Botox is not used for the parentheses around your mouth. Dermal fillers like Juvederm or Radiesse are more appropriate for the area around the mouth.

Enjoy Life

Aging is an inevitable part of life, and worrying about how every little decision you make will affect your appearance as you age is likely to make you age even faster from stress. So don’t stress too much about how much you’re smiling, or if you had a slice of cake this week. Life is meant to be enjoyed, and you can’t hold off all signs of aging. Focusing on your overall health is a great way to help ensure you look young as long as possible.

See a Facial Plastic Surgeon

Even if aging can’t be stopped, it can be slowed down temporarily. If you are interested in treatment for dynamic wrinkles, it’s time to speak with an expert facial plastic surgeon to walk you through your options and help you choose the treatment that is right for you.

Come to Batniji Facial Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach (949-650-8882) or Beverly Hills (310-467-2180), CA, and meet with acclaimed surgeon Dr. Rami K. Batniji. Dr. Batniji is a talented surgeon who focuses solely on procedures for the face. If you would like to nip aging in the bud or treat more advanced problems, call either location today to schedule your consultation.