A scientific study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery analyzed identical twins with contrasting lifestyle factors to visibly check for signs of facial aging. It revealed that the average person’s environment and lifestyle might play a more significant role than their genes, at least when it comes to the onset and visible progression of facial aging.
Author and ASPS surgeon Bahman Guyuron 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.”
Participating subjects were photographed, surveyed, and members of an independent panel then analyzed the data. The results yielded some interesting conclusions about lifestyle/environmental factors and their effect on facial aging.
Results provided by the panel revealed that subjects over 40 who were heavier than their identical counterpart actually exhibited a more youthful (facial) 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.
The study also revealed that a higher perceived age difference was found in divorced subjects and those who had used antidepressants.
Tags: anti-aging, dermal fillers, facial aging, Juvederm, Radiesse
