After treatment for cancer, what can I do about lost volume in my face?

Dr. Irwin
June 17, 2013
Dr. Irwin, I plan to get Sculptra to fill in my cheeks due to weight loss after cancer surgery. Everyone tells me I don't look my age and that I have good skin. People think I'm around 63. Being that I'm 81 years old, will my body replace lost collagen? I heard someone say that at that age your body will not replace the collagen. As you are the pro.I await your reply. Thanks ever so much.

We all are wishing you the best after that surgery! A couple of things to think about.

Sometimes after surgery or chemotherapy, your body fat is just reduced too much. Is this a situation that might be fixed by just eating healthfully, but more? If you’re not sure, maybe have a nutritionist help you with a body mass index. Either way, you want to let your body heal at least 12 weeks or so at age 80 and keep your nutrition really optimal during that time.

 

It’s true that as we age we have fewer cells that make collagen (fibroblasts), and they make less of it in general. This is also the case in response to Sculptra which is a collagen stimulator. Having said that, I and other dermatologists worldwide have patients in their 70s and 80s who love this product. You just need to know that you’ll need more treatments than the average 40 year old to achieve a good result. 

 

Hope this helps, Dr. I

 

Learn more about injectible liquid Sculptra.

 

Read more information about skin treatments from our Quick Introduction to Cosmetic Skin Treatments.  

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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