The Bony Foundations of Facial Aging
Contrary to the common belief that only skin is affected by aging, the facial skeleton undergoes a continuous process of remodeling. Research using three-dimensional scanning reveals specific changes that profoundly impact our appearance. One key finding is that the facial skeleton, in general, experiences a reduction in volume over time.
Bone Resorption in the Upper and Midface
In the upper face, the bone around the eye sockets (orbits) and nose (pyriform aperture) changes shape. The eye sockets, in particular, enlarge and become wider and longer. This loss of bony support, combined with the loss of orbital fat, contributes to the sunken-in look many people develop around their eyes. Similarly, the bones of the nose and mid-cheek undergo resorption, which can cause flattening of the midface.
Changes to the Lower Face and Jaw
Perhaps most relevant to the question of whether the face gets shorter is the lower jaw, or mandible. Studies show that the height and length of the lower jaw can decrease with age, while the angle of the jaw may increase. This causes the chin to recede and become smaller, and the jawline to lose its definition. This loss of structural support for the soft tissues of the lower face gives the illusion of a more compressed or shorter facial structure.
The Role of Facial Fat and Soft Tissues
Bone is only one part of the equation. The soft tissues that give the face its youthful plumpness also undergo significant changes.
Fat Volume and Redistribution
A young, healthy face is characterized by well-distributed fat pads that provide a heart-shaped contour. As we age, these fat pads diminish in volume and shift downward due to gravity.
This redistribution results in:
- Hollowing in the temples and cheeks.
- Deepening of the nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the mouth).
- The formation of jowls and sagging along the jawline, transforming the facial shape from a 'heart' to a 'trapezoid'.
Collagen, Elastin, and Muscle Changes
Collagen and elastin are proteins that provide skin with its strength and elasticity. Starting in our twenties, collagen production decreases by about 1% per year. This, combined with the gradual weakening of facial muscles over time, leads to visible signs of aging.
- Skin Laxity: The loss of collagen and elastin causes skin to thin and sag, further contributing to the drooping appearance of jowls and the neck.
- Wrinkles and Creases: Repetitive muscle movements create permanent lines, especially on the forehead and around the eyes (crow's feet).
- Sunken Eyes: In addition to bony changes, the weakening of muscles and the repositioning of fat can make eyes appear more sunken.
Comparison of Youthful vs. Aging Face
| Feature | Youthful Face | Aging Face |
|---|---|---|
| Facial Shape | Often heart-shaped, with fullness in the upper cheeks. | Becomes more square or trapezoidal, with more volume in the lower face due to fat shifting. |
| Midface Cheeks | High and full, providing a smooth contour. | Flatter, with fat pads having shifted downwards. |
| Eye Sockets (Orbits) | Smaller and less pronounced. | Enlarge due to bone resorption, contributing to a sunken-in look. |
| Jawline and Chin | Defined jawline with a strong chin. | Receding chin and a softer, less-defined jawline with sagging jowls due to bone loss. |
| Overall Contour | Smooth transitions between facial features. | Harsher transitions and uneven contours due to underlying bone changes and soft tissue sagging. |
The Impact of Dental Health on Facial Structure
Missing teeth and receding gums are significant factors that can accelerate the aging process, specifically affecting the lower facial height. Without the teeth to support it, the jawbone can resorb more rapidly. This reduces the size of the lower face, causing the mouth to appear shrunken and the forehead and nose to look more pronounced. Maintaining good dental health is therefore a critical component of healthy aging.
Lifestyle Factors and Mitigating Aging Effects
While some facial aging is inevitable, several factors can influence the rate and extent of these changes.
Factors that accelerate aging:
- Sun Exposure: Excessive sun can significantly accelerate collagen breakdown and wrinkle formation.
- Smoking: Cigarette smoking restricts blood flow to the skin and can speed up the aging process.
- Poor Diet and Hydration: A nutrient-deficient diet and dehydration can negatively affect skin and overall health.
Strategies for mitigation:
- Skincare: Utilize products with SPF, retinoids, and antioxidants to protect skin and promote collagen production.
- Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to support skin health.
- Medical Procedures: Options like dermal fillers, which restore lost volume, can be used to address changes in facial fat pads and structure. For deeper understanding, consulting resources such as the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia on aging changes in the face is recommended.
Conclusion
While the idea that a face simply gets shorter with age is a simplification, it is rooted in some truth. The lower jaw can and does lose bone mass, causing the lower face to appear shorter and narrower. However, this is just one piece of a much larger, more complex puzzle involving changes to all layers of facial tissue—from the bones to the fat to the skin. The overall result is a shifting of facial proportions and volume, which is what we perceive as an aged appearance. By understanding the deeper mechanisms of facial aging, we can take more informed steps to care for our skin and support our overall health as we get older.
