Feel like you’re pulling, tugging, or lifting every time you look in the mirror?

Here are six ways to feel uplifted.

1. Adjust Your Sleep 
While we sleep, gravity and our pillows are at odds with our faces. Likewise, you might have noticed new lines upon waking up. This doesn’t create sagging, but the wrinkles can become permanent and more pronounced the more you smoosh your face as a side or stomach sleeper. Either sleeping on your back or adopting a special pillow to counteract gravity will minimize the contact between your face and pillow, leaving it crease-free through the night.

2. Apply Sunscreen 
UV rays break down collagen in the face. We love collagen because it gives our skin its elasticity. As we age, we gradually produce less collagen, but by applying sunscreen, even in the fall, we can preserve it as much as possible. And don’t forget your sunhat!

3. Facial Exercises 
When we were younger, most of us couldn’t wait to shed “baby fat” that may have given us ample cheeks well into our teens. Then suddenly, we’re wishing the exact opposite. By our late 30s, some of us find ourselves missing a bit of the plumpness in our upper cheeks. With the absence of fat, our cheeks may appear saggy.   Facial exercises, therefore, can build facial muscle to fill the sagging skin. BUT those same movements may also create expression lines, which could become wrinkles.

4. Fillers
Juvederm’s Voluma and Galderma’s Restalyne Lyft are short-chain hyaluronic acid injectables designed to re-contour cheeks and lift facial tissue for a more youthful look.

5. Topical treatments
Retinols and prescription retinoids like Retin-A boost collagen production and remove dead skin cells, leaving skin plump and firm. Bonus- these treatments also loosen clogged pores for beautiful skin all year round.

6. Surgery
With all the amazing new technology, few procedures are as effective at reversing facial sagging as the facelift Sagging at mid-face at the jaw can be physically pulled back, and extra, loose skin removed to create a more youthful appearance.

A combination of lifestyle habits, age and genes creates the unique features of your skin today. If you feel it’s not in an optimal state currently, these six options (and combinations thereof) will go a long way to alleviate your saggy skin, and any worries you might be holding on to about it. Time to get uplifted, in more ways than one!

Written By: Jenny Isenman

I’ve been called a Gen X-pert. I’ve hosted shows based on Generation X and been a guest on talk shows as a representative of my generation. Personally, I think we tend to see ourselves as adults who never really grew up. We’ve got an unusual tendency to be nostalgic of our youth while still feeling youthful. I kind of love that about us. What I don’t love is when I look in the mirror and realize what I see in my mind doesn’t match what I see in my reflection.

It seems we Gen Xers are not going down (or going up in years) without a fight. Our generation is getting over 40% of all surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures combined, which begs the questions: Are we just getting to the age that we need them and the older folks have given up or are we, as a generation more apt to try to block those punches aging is trying so desperately to land? I’ll check back in with you guys when we’re 60!

Until then, these are the top surgical procedures we Gen Xers ages 35-50 are opting for according to the 2014 Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank and The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (and my take on why).

% of Women Who Had this Procedure
in 2014 Who Were Age 35-50

1. Liposuction 46.4%
Childbirth, hectic schedules, and slowed metabolism mixed with the option of liposuction makes this an obvious place for Gen Xers to turn to for a fresh look or a throwback to our younger days when we convinced ourselves Snackwells were diet fare. Thank goodness our metabolism rates were higher then. Liposuction improves our bodies’ contours while removing excess fat deposits.

2. Breast Augmentation 37.3%
Different from the breast lift, though sometimes done together. Gen Xers who’ve given birth may find themselves looking at less than they started with or may just be over that hump and wanting to reward themselves with some new bras and something to put in them.

3. Tummy Tuck 52.6%
The ultimate betrayal of the low fat sugar snacks, baked potatoes and bottomless bread baskets — is that they catch up to you. Add in the ever expanding and “shrinking” baby belly and you may have some extra fat/skin you weren’t banking on. If those sit-ups aren’t giving you that perfect, taut tummy, consider this your next option. Oh how avoiding the belly button ring seems like dodging a bullet.

4. Breast Lift 51.1%
Some women don’t need more volume; they simply need to stop their boobs from blocking their belts. Yes, breast feeding and childbirth can cause this slack, but let’s not forget that lovely phenomenon that keeps us from flying off into outer space. Gravity.

5. Breast Reduction 43.6%
Maybe you were one of the lucky ones who kept some of the perks of pregnancy boobs. I have friends that grew 2 cup sizes. I simply grew a half size in one of my feet, making shoe buying nearly impossible (thanks). That said, lucky might not be the right word as you may not have needed the extra girth or maybe your aching back wasn’t making you seem as spry as you were at 18.

6. Eyelid Surgery 30%
This one I hate to see, because it snuck up on me. I’ve already written extensively about my obsession with my uneven eyelids. Yep, car windows, sun damage, pulling, rubbing, gravity, sleep positioning and a gazillion other things can make your eyes uneven or droopy over time. I’ll probably be opting for it in the future — I can’t let all my good shadows and mascaras go to waste.

As you can see our generation is at the forefront of this battle against bulge, time, gravity and aging — here’s to hoping we make some headway.

Written by Corrie Shenigo

You’ve done your research, chosen the right board-certified plastic surgeon and gotten through your surgery without a hitch. Now you can’t wait to jump back into your daily routine and maybe show off your fabulous results, right? Well, cool your jets, cowboy, because the truth is: you may not be ready.

According to statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2014, the top five surgical procedures performed were breast lifts and augmentations, eyelid surgery, liposuction, and tummy tucks. That’s a lot of collective recovery time. Since knowledge is power, we’ve put together a few guidelines for when it’s safe to get back to life after undergoing some of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, with the first rule of thumb being: listen to your surgeon. (Repeat 3x).

The single most popular surgical procedure for both men and women — with 300,000+ women and 40,000+ men opting for the surgery in 2014 alone — is liposuction, and your recovery time will likely be contingent on whether or not your surgeon used general anesthesia. Liposuction patients should typically be able to return to work within a few days and return to light, physical activity within about 10 days. The key word is “light”. Allowing your body to fully recover for at least three-weeks before returning to your butt kicking workout, strength training or intense running is imperative to achieving the best and safest results.

In the popularity department, breast augmentation comes in a close second to liposuction, with over 285,000 women opting for the procedure in 2014 alone. With self-care being as vital a component to your results as the surgery itself, you’ll need to take it easy for a while; regardless of how badly you want to show-off your new look.

Patients can typically return to work anywhere from a few days to a week post-procedure, with a few key rules. Do not strain the area. You may be able to tackle light activity, but anything that strains the pectoral muscles or is highly uncomfortable or painful should be avoided. Your surgeon will likely recommend that you hold off on exercise for at least 2 to 3 weeks post-surgery, at which point you can start by performing light exercises depending on your level of comfort. Performing more physical tasks like cardio and weight training will happen gradually, but again, straining the pectoral muscles is a no-no.

Much of the same rules apply to a breast lift procedure. The most important gauge of how quickly you can get back to 100% is your own comfort level and your surgeon’s aftercare direction. If you’re in pain or at a high level of discomfort, or if your surgeon directs you to take it easy for a bit longer, it’s important that you take a step back.

In 2014, 150,000+ women chose to undergo a tummy tuck procedure, which puts this on our top 5 list of most popular plastic surgeries. As with all procedures, the most important aftercare instructions will come from your surgeon, which you will follow to a ’T’, right? Right.

Your surgeon will likely recommend a heavy dose of rest and relaxation post-surgery, including having someone to help you around the house for a few days to a week. Most patients will be able to return to work after about 2 to 3 weeks, but should avoid heavy lifting for about 4 – 6 weeks. Walking around (with assistance as needed) will help alleviate concern of swelling and blood clots, but that’s likely to be the extent of your exercise for between 3 – 6 weeks. Your doctor will be able to better advise you when you’re ready to hit the gym again, but be prepared to lay off any heavy aerobic activity for up to two months before you’ve fully recovered.

Eyelid surgery, while seemingly not as invasive as some of the other procedures we’ve discussed, comes with its own set of aftercare instructions that will vary greatly from patient to patient. Generally, you’ll want to take at least 5 days – 1 week off before returning to work and be sure to check with your surgeon when it’s okay to apply makeup to the area. At 2-3 weeks you’ll likely be able to start incorporating light exercise, but keep in mind that activities like exercise, bending, lifting and crying — lay off those post-surgery chick flicks — all increase blood flow to the eyes and should be avoided until your surgeon gives you the go ahead.

Whether you’re recovering from a cold or from a major surgery, it’s always tempting to get back to the gym, work, and life — sometimes before you’ve really given your body the time it needs to heal. The decision to return to an active, normal lifestyle is reliant on a number of variables — what your job entails, your exercise routine, the procedure you underwent, and how your body is responding to the surgery itself. Since we’re uniquely different creatures, it’s important to give your body every chance to heal without taxing it too soon post-surgery. They don’t call the “healing process” a “process” for nothing, folks.

Maryann attributed her tired look to her struggle going through menopause –it took a toll on her. She decided to treat herself by undergoing eyelid surgery.

“What bothered me was the puffiness underneath my eyes. I didn’t believe there was anything wrong with my upper eyelids,” notes Maryann. After consulting with her board-certified plastic surgeon she recommended an upper eyelid lift to open her eyes.

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, eliminates any puffiness and bags under the lower lids and hooded skin on the upper lids.

The surgery was a success. Maryann was required to apply ointment on her upper lids.

“I went back to my doctor a week later to remove the stitches and one week later I was back at work. I felt no pain, which was the best part. I like myself better now with no makeup on, I am very comfortable without it and no longer need to apply puffiness creams to my eyes!” she exclaims.

There are many questions and misconceptions about the difference between cosmetic and plastic surgery, and many patients mistakenly believe that plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons are equal when they are not.

Aesthetic vs. Reconstructive
To explain the difference, let’s start by defining plastic surgery. The term “plastic” in plastic surgery is derived from the Greek word “plastikos,” which means to mold or shape. There are several specialized fields under plastic surgery including reconstructive surgery which involves the restoration of almost any body part that is abnormal due to a trauma/accident, cancer or birth defect; and aesthetic surgery, (sometimes referred to as cosmetic surgery), which is the aesthetic enhancement of the body or re-shaping normal tissue to improve appearance.
In other words, aesthetic surgery is a sub-specialty of plastic surgery. Reconstructive surgery is often considered ‘medically necessary’ and may be covered by health insurance.

Cosmetic vs. Plastic: The Training
Following completion of medical school, a board-certified plastic surgeon serves first as a surgical resident for at least 3 years where they undergo rigorous training in all aspects of surgery and then 3 years of focused plastic surgery training. The process can take 6 to 8 years or more and many further their training in fellowships including microvascular, craniofacial, hand, pediatric and aesthetic. This is a key differentiator between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon.

A practitioner referring to themselves as a cosmetic surgeon might belong to any medical specialty. He/she could be a general surgeon, gynecologist, dermatologist, family physician, internist, etc. who has decided that they want to perform cosmetic procedures. The training can be anywhere from a one-year cosmetic surgery fellowship to a handful of short weekend courses on topics ranging from how to perform liposuction, utilize injectables, or place breast implants.
Board Certification
It is always important to confirm that a plastic surgeon has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) – the only Board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) to certify doctors in the specialty of Plastic Surgery, Only ABPS diplomates can call themselves a Plastic Surgeon. In Canada, a patient should look for certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCSC). International plastic surgeons should be board-certified in their country of origin.

Cosmetic surgeons who claim to be board-certified may have received their certificate from the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, which board is not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Alternatively, they may be certified by their specialty board which may not even be a surgical specialty, such as internal medicine. Cosmetic surgeons referring to themselves as board-certified can be misleading if you don’t know the right questions to ask.

It is important to note that while all plastic surgeons have extensive training and can perform both reconstructive surgery and aesthetic/cosmetic surgery, not all cosmetic surgeons can perform reconstructive surgery because they have not received the same aesthetic training as plastic surgeons.

In conclusion, if you are considering any type of aesthetic/cosmetic procedure it is prudent to be aware of the education and training of the surgeon you’re considering for your procedure. You can verify the credentials of a doctor by checking with your state medical board or verify you are seeing a board-certified plastic surgeon whose practice focuses on aesthetic surgery. Be educated and be informed in your surgical decisions!