Dynamic vs. Static Wrinkles: What Is the Difference? By Kenneth Smart Jr. on May 29, 2018

Common facial wrinkles and linesWrinkles can leave you looking older and more exhausted that you really are. Thankfully there are plenty of cosmetic skin care and face surgery options available to address facial wrinkles. A Dallas, TX plastic surgeon can tailor an anti-aging skin rejuvenation or plastic surgery treatment just for you.

Not all wrinkles are the same. With that in mind, let’s consider the difference between dynamic wrinkles and static wrinkles. They have different causes and must be dealt with differently as a result.

What Are Dynamic Wrinkles?

Dynamic wrinkles refer to wrinkles that are only prominent when a person makes certain kinds of facial expressions. These wrinkles are caused by muscle movements or muscle contractions. When a person’s face is at rest, these wrinkles are not visible.

Some examples of dynamic wrinkles include:

  • Frown lines on the forehead
  • Frown lines between the eyes
  • Crow’s feet
  • Certain lines and folds around the nose and mouth

Non-Surgical Treatment for Dynamic Wrinkles

The ideal non-surgical treatment option for dynamic wrinkles is the use of BOTOX® injections. BOTOX® Cosmetic helps stop muscle contractions in the injection site, which results in reduced appearance of the dynamic wrinkles.

The results of BOTOX® injections are temporary, so repeat injections will be needed after several months to prolong the anti-wrinkle results. However, these repeat treatments are effective at long-lasting facial rejuvenation.

Surgical Treatment for Dynamic Wrinkles

Since dynamic wrinkles are caused by muscle contractions rather that issues with the skin itself, facial plastic surgery tends to be a poor option for targeting dynamic wrinkles. We can discuss other kinds of treatments that can help reduce the prominence of these dynamic wrinkles during your visit to the practice.

What Are Static Wrinkles?

Static wrinkles are wrinkles that are visible when a person’s face is at rest. They are the result of reduced skin elasticity and collagen production. Some causes of static wrinkles include sun damage, smoking, weight fluctuations, and the natural aging process. Examples of static wrinkles include:

  • Pervasive forehead lines
  • Lines around the lips
  • Jowls
  • Sagging cheeks
  • Wrinkles on the eyelids

Non-Surgical Treatment for Static Wrinkles

To treat fine or minor static wrinkles, various skin care treatments can be performed. This includes facials, laser skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and so forth. The ideal option can be discussed during your visit based on your needs.

In addition, dermal filler injections can be quite effective at fighting static wrinkles. These injectables add volume to the injection site, which smooths away wrinkles and leads to supple and more youthful skin. Many dermal fillers are available, and we can discuss the ideal one for you during your visit.

Surgical Treatment for Static Wrinkles

Many facial plastic surgery procedures are helpful in treating static wrinkles. The surgeries will target specific parts of the face depending on the sagging or wrinkling that is present. Some common facial rejuvenation surgeries include:

  • Facelift
  • Brow lift
  • Eyelid surgery
  • Lower face lift
  • Neck lift

These procedures fix underlying structures of the face and pull the patient’s skin tighter, which helps make these static wrinkles disappear.

Learn More Facial Rejuvenation

For more information about treating dynamic and static wrinkles and improving your overall appearance in the process, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic plastic surgeon. We are here to help you look great and be well-informed about your various treatment options.

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Dr. Smart

Frisco Plastic Surgery & MedSpa

Dr. Ken Smart and his dedicated team want every patient who visits their office to look and feel their best. Dr. Smart is a renowned plastic surgeon who is affiliated with various trusted organizations, including the: 

  • American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
  • Texas Medical Association

To discuss your concerns with Dr. Smart and learn more about our personalized approach to care, request your cosmetic consultation online or call us at (972) 334-0400.

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