As far as we all know, the location of the Fountain of Youth isn't known, but it is possible for you to feel and look youthful again with a cosmetic procedure. It is Dr. Smita Ramanadham's attention to detail, dedication to her patients and her willingness to understand their specific goals before formulating a personalized plan for optimal outcomes that make her one of a kind as a face expert. She understands the delicate mix of beauty, art, and science required to rejuvenate the aesthetic appearances of her patients resulting in natural outcomes. Dr. Ramanadham believes the outcomes from cosmetic procedures should be natural, refreshing, and makes you feel like ‘your best self yet’. Haute Beauty caught up with the New Jersey based board-certified plastic surgeon who dished on the top facial cosmetic procedure she recommends for achieving a more youthful appearance.
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Haute Beauty: What is jaw contouring?
Dr. Smita Ramanadham: Jaw contouring involves reshaping the jawline. It can be augmented for a more youthful appearance. A more chiseled, sharp, and defined jawline is created by injecting fillers to the borders of the mandible (jaw). Conversely, the jaw can be reduced and made smaller or narrower through the use of neuromodulators injected directly into the masseter muscle. This will atrophy the muscle or make it thinner creating a slimmer lower face. Of course, surgical options exist as well to provide a more permanent result.
HB: Who is a good candidate for this procedure?
SR: Most patients are good candidates as long as they are in good general health and do not have significant loose skin or fat along the jaw or chin. Generally, patients may have an ill-defined jawline and may want this to be more distinct. On the other hand, patients may want their face to be slimmer or they may have problems with grinding their teeth. Both concerns can be addressed through jawline reduction via neuromodulators.
HB: What does recovery look like?
SR: Recovery is well tolerated. Results from filler injection will be immediate depending on the filler used. Generally, hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, etc.) are immediate while Sculptra will take several weeks to months to obtain final results. Minimal bruising and swelling may result which typically resolve within 24-72 hours. Neuromodulators such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin will take 3-7 days depending on the product to see results. Following injection, minor bruising may result as well.
HB: Do men also benefit from this procedure?
SR: Absolutely, we commonly see men coming in for jaw augmentation. A sharp, angled, and wide jawline is a highly sought-after feature for men and with fillers, we can achieve this.
HB: How are results best maintained?
SR: Fillers can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on the filler used. Neuromodulators generally last 3-4 months. Regular upkeep and visits to your surgeon or injector will enable you to best maintain your results.