What to Know about Treating Fine Lines and Wrinkles 

Wrinkles are a common part of aging. As we get older, fine lines and deep creases begin to show up on our faces – usually starting around the eyes, nose, and mouth. We also lose definition in the jawline due to sagging skin and facial fat pads. 

“We see wrinkles and lines as our skin ages. Over time, it can lose elasticity, volume, and moisture,” said Sarah Cross, PA-C, at WVU Medicine Plastic Surgery. “It’s common to first start seeing these lines in the areas impacted by repeated facial expressions – like squinting, smiling, and frowning.”

Other factors like genetics, sun exposure, and smoking history can also cause or influence the appearance of wrinkles.  

“Wrinkles and skin changes are a natural part of aging, but there are ways to reduce their appearance and revitalize the skin even as it ages,” Cross said. “I like to say that the goal isn’t to stop aging, but to age gracefully and with confidence.” 

Injectable treatments like Botox and dermal fillers, as well as high-quality skin care, make a difference by smoothing wrinkles, restoring volume, and rejuvenating your skin. 

“If you’re looking to treat forehead lines, frown lines or crow’s feet around the eyes, Botox can help as it relaxes the facial muscles in these areas, smoothing out the lines and making them much less noticeable,” Cross said. “For smile and frown lines or sunken cheeks, dermal filler injections can increase volume as well as contour and soften lines. Botox, dermal fillers or a combination of the two are often needed to contour the jawline.” 

One benefit to seeing a Plastic Surgery PA, like Sarah Cross, is that for people with more advanced aging, our team can offer complimentary surgical consultations. "Oftentimes a combination of multiple modalities gives the best and most natural result. We can talk through all your options to find the right plan to fit your goals and budget," Cross said.  

In addition to injectable treatments, a quality skincare routine is something people can do at home to refresh and revitalize their skin. 

“The right skincare routine is key for keeping your skin healthy and for maintaining the results you get from Botox and filler treatments,” Cross said. “High-quality products with medical-grade ingredients like retinol, peptide complexes, and SPF to combat sun exposure make a difference. In-office procedures are great, but the major factors in skin health are what you do at home.” 

The team at WVU Medicine Plastic Surgery, in Shepherdstown, offers medical-grade skincare consultations to help patients find the right products and routine. 

“It’s normal to develop lines and wrinkles as we age, but if they bother you then we can definitely help,” Cross said. “During a consultation, we can talk about your problem areas, goals, and come up with a treatment plan and skincare regimen that helps you feel like your best self.” 

Call 304-350-3274 to schedule a consultation and learn more on our website: wvumedicine.org/plasticseast.