Not only do the shape, texture, and appearance of our faces change over time because of wrinkles, but they also change due to the downward pull of gravity and the shifting of facial bone structure as we age. This is the reason older faces tend to look saggy and sunken as well as deeply lined. For those wishing to escape the effects of time without too much pain or complexity, doctors have developed several forms of injectables to fill out the skin and return some of the youthful appearance.

Our respective genes control when and how our faces begin to age, but at some point all of us will experience a reduced collagen production and a decrease in skin elasticity as the epidermis thins out. As we age our brow bones start to recede backward causing drooping eyebrows and eyelids.

While it is not possible to stop the effects of age, it is possible to slow them and even reduce the appearance of wrinkles, droopiness, bags and sags by means of cosmetic injectables. Injectables are used to restore fat and tissues underneath the skin to smooth out lines and plump up the skin.

If you decide to get injectable fillers, you have to first consult a qualified professional. The doctor or surgeon will help you evaluate the state of your face and the type of procedures that will most improve your problem areas. The most common types of injectables include botulinum toxin (known as the brand name Botox,) collagen, hyaluronic acid, and the fat injectables. Each type is composed of different materials, but they all produce smoother, younger looking skin and faces with the results lasting anywhere from two to six months. Patients generally see most dramatic changes in their frown lines, crow's feet, lips and the deep wrinkles between the nose and lips.

No matter what type of injectable you choose, the procedure will be quick, not usually more than an hour. The filler will be injected into your face by means of a small needle or very small incision lines. The results will often be visible immediately, although in some cases it may be up to two days to see the final product. You may also experience some temporary bruising or swelling, but you should be able to resume your normal daily activities right after your procedure. Pain is typically minimal and easily managed by medication. Unfortunately the effects are not permanent and the procedures usually require repetitive injections every several months to maintain the desired look.

The good news though, is that injectables are less expensive than full cosmetic surgeries like facelifts, eyelid lifts and others. They are also less involved and less risky. Many of the injectable materials have been FDA approved for several decades and have been proven safe and effective. There is a risk of allergy to bovine-based collagen, but this is always tested before the injection to avoid problems.

Talk with your doctor about the possibility of using injectables to keep your face looking young and fresh.