Comparison of Wrinkles and Folds From the Anatomist’s, Plastic Surgeon’s, and Philosopher’s View

The aim of this paper was to compare the perspectives of anatomists, plastic surgeons, and philosophers on wrinkles and folds. Anatomists focus on the functional and structural aspects of wrinkles and folds, considering them biological phenomena that either facilitate movement and flexibility or arise from the body's natural aging process. Plastic surgeons focus on esthetic restoration, striving to eliminate or reduce wrinkles and folds, which they frequently regard as unwanted signs of aging that compromise a youthful appearance. Gilles Deleuze interprets wrinkles and folds as philosophical symbols, seeing them as manifestations of life's richness and complexity, and as representations of how time and experience are embedded in the human body and the world. Anatomists view aging as a biological process that leads to wrinkles and folds, which are the result of structural changes in the skin and tissues. Plastic surgeons approach aging as a condition to be mitigated or reversed, with the goal of preserving smooth, youthful skin. Deleuze, on the other hand, sees aging as an integral part of the creative process of becoming, considering wrinkles as markers of life's depth rather than imperfections that need correction. For anatomists and plastic surgeons, wrinkles typically carry a negative connotation associated with deterioration or the necessity for correction. In contrast, Deleuze views wrinkles as affirmations of life's unfolding, representing depth and multiplicity rather than mere imperfections to be eliminated. Plastic surgeons could gain a richer perspective on esthetics by studying both the surgical anatomy and the philosophy of wrinkles and aging processes.