What is the Origin of Facial Fat Redistribution?

The concept is rooted in the anatomical and aesthetic understanding of facial aging, moving beyond simple skin laxity to include deeper structural changes. Research in this area has identified distinct fat compartments and tracked their differential volume changes over time. This biological phenomenon is a universal aspect of human senescence.

What is the Mechanism of Facial Fat Redistribution?

The endocrine system plays a pivotal role in modulating this process, primarily through the influence of sex steroids and growth hormone. Declining estrogen levels in women post-menopause are associated with reduced subcutaneous fat volume in the face and a shift toward central fat deposition. Conversely, high cortisol levels, such as in Cushing's syndrome, can cause fat accumulation in specific facial areas, demonstrating the powerful regulatory effect of hormones on adipocyte biology.

Facial Fat Redistribution ∞ Area

Facial Fat Redistribution

Meaning

This clinical term describes the age-related and hormonally-influenced process where the subcutaneous adipose tissue of the face shifts, atrophies, or hypertrophies in specific compartments. It is a key factor contributing to the loss of youthful facial contour, characterized by volume depletion in the mid-face and descent or accumulation in the lower face. This process significantly alters the visual appearance of aging.