Beyond skin deep: The role of facial muscles in ageing

Facial ageing is a complex process involving multiple layers of the face, including skin, muscles, fat, ligaments, and bone. Dr Ng Hong Yi, founder of Zion Aesthetic Clinic, notes that patients nowadays seek subtle changes that preserve their individual features, rather than dramatic differences seen in past beauty trends. Overexposure to aesthetic treatments online has made people cautious about overdoing certain procedures.

The clinic's approach to facial ageing considers the interconnectedness of different layers, such as how changes in deeper structures can affect facial contours. Facial muscles, connected to skin through connective tissue, play a role in sagging and cheek volume changes due to age-related alterations in deeper structures.

Dr Ng recommends non-invasive Emface treatment, which targets both skin and specific facial muscles through synchronised radiofrequency heating and high-intensity electrical stimulation. Studies show improvements in muscle tone, skin collagen and elastin, muscle thickness, skin displacement, and facial volume, contributing to a rejuvenated midface appearance.

Applicators are positioned to stimulate muscles involved in forehead and cheek lift while avoiding downward-pulling muscles. Emface sessions are typically four to six weeks apart, lasting about 20 minutes each, with no downtime and generally well-tolerated.

Dr Ng emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing changes in fat, bone, and muscle, and recommends additional lifestyle measures like exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy BMI. Overcorrection should be avoided to maintain natural features. Regular check-ups with a doctor are advised to tailor treatments to individual goals and facial anatomy.