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During the aging process, the aspect of the skin changes gradually, from tight and wrinkle-free in youth to an irregularly colored and drier surface in older age. Senescence also involves skeletal and muscular atrophy, laxity of the subcutaneous tissue and consequent flaccidity of the skin with the accentuation of furrows and rhytids. Different factors are responsible for these changes, such as excessive sun exposure, stress and personal habits such as alcohol consumption, smoking and poor nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From prehistoric art to modern times, there has been clear evidence that humans have constantly attempted to improve and perpetuate physical beauty. Studies of the evolution of facial aesthetics over the centuries suggest that 35,000 years ago man possessed no less potential for facial attractiveness than today [1]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surgical treatment of body contour deformities is a constantly evolving art that seeks to improve individual alterations while maintaining an overall well-proportioned balance. Liposuction has revolutionized the surgical treatment of contour alterations by removing excess adiposity through minimal incisions. On the other hand, patients may still present with deformities that require a dermolipectomy, and planning must be based on sound surgical experience. More important than the technical procedure, however, are a correct diagnosis of the deformity and a thorough interpretation of the psychological and motivational structure of the patient. The real goal of body contour surgery is to reestablish the structural and psychosocial harmony of the individual, so that he or she may achieve a balance between his or her self-image and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]