Are you familiar with the condition known as RBF?
We’re talking, of course, about Resting Bro Face. It’s a concept that’s generated some buzz lately, though there remain plenty of misconceptions about what RBF actually entails.
Recently, our own Dr. Scheuer appeared on Charlotte’s WBTV to weigh in with his thoughts on this phenomenon. We encourage you to catch his full appearance and watch the video below. In the meantime, here’s a quick summary of Dr. Scheuer’s remarks on Resting Bro Face.
Defining RBF or What Is Resting Bro Face?
“This is a term that’s being used in popular culture, and it’s being used more over time,” begins Dr. Scheuer.
Indeed, RBF has entered the lexicon and even the mainstream. But what does it mean?
“Basically, what this refers to is people who have sort of a frustrated look on their face at times, or even an angry look,” the doctor continues. “That’s actually a natural look for a lot of people.” Indeed, it’s worth noting that RBF applies to men and women alike. (For women, the B stands for something far less flattering.)
Dr. Scheuer goes on to say that the characteristics of RBF can sometimes develop or intensify over time, simply due to some of the facial changes that come with age.
During Dr. Scheuer’s WBTV appearance, a few celebrity examples of RBF were offered, among them Kanye West and Kristen Stewart. Both are perceived as people whose natural, “resting” expression appears surly or dour.
Of course, expressions like these are nothing new. So why is RBF suddenly such a big part of the culture? Dr. Scheuer notes that much of it has to do with selfie culture, which has emboldened many of us to be more critical of others… and, to be more critical of ourselves.
“We don’t talk about [Resting Bro Face] to glorify it or to give it more credibility,” says Dr. Scheuer. “It is something that’s becoming more common as we go into the age of social media.” He emphasizes that RBF is naturally occurring and doesn’t come with an on or off switch.
What Causes RBF?
So, RBF happens organically… but what causes it, exactly?
The short answer is that it’s complicated! However, there’s been some research done to try to identify the factors that contribute to the RBF look. Researchers have used facial readers to locate some hallmarks of individuals with RBF, and one of the takeaways is that these individuals tend to exhibit a lot of contempt. That contempt is specifically linked to tightening around the eyes, or the corners of the lips being slightly raised… but not into a smile.
Now that these two problem areas have been singled out, people are going to plastic surgeons to tweak them.
If you want to know whether you’re at risk of RBF, the WBTV report says to pay close attention to the resting faces of your family members, which may point to a genetic propensity.
Treating RBF
“We can use Botox® for that,” comments Dr. Scheuer. “The medicine we inject in those areas softens those areas and weakens those muscles. It’s temporary, but it does help.” Indeed, note that Botox® treatments typically last for around three months.
These treatments may only be temporary, but they are also quick and easy, without the need for any kind of aftercare or down time. As such, they are becoming more and more popular at cosmetic surgery practices around the country. We have seen a significant rise in Botox® treatments for RBF right here in our Charlotte office.
Should You Seek Treatment for RBF?
So, what about you? Do you feel like you have a case of Resting Bro Face? And if so, have you considered having it treated?
The first thing we always tell people is that it’s perfectly normal not to look happy all of the time. Even if your default expression conveys a certain dourness, that’s not necessarily a reason to panic or to lose any of your self-confidence.
But if you do worry about your appearance and wish for a softer, friendlier look, that’s something we can talk to you about. We do offer Botox® here at Charlotte Plastic Surgery, and many of our clients have found that it’s an effective way for them to mediate the effects of RBF.
The first step in the process is scheduling a consultation with us. Call us directly and ask to be seen by Dr. Scheuer or another provider. During this consultation, we’ll be happy to advise you on the need for Botox®, and also to answer any questions you may have about the procedure. We’ll also be happy to counsel you if there are other treatments, we think would make more sense.
As noted earlier, Botox® is temporary, but also quick. It’s an injectable, which means it only takes a few minutes for the treatment to take place. Once it’s done, you’re free to resume your normal life; there’s no need for rest or recovery.
And while it only lasts for about three months, our patients are invited to come back whenever they feel the symptoms of their RBF returning.
Again, there is nothing wrong with having a facial expression that’s sometimes less than cheerful. If it’s something that bothers you, though, know that there are some options. We’d love to talk to you more about the options here at Charlotte Plastic Surgery.
Contact Charlotte Plastic Surgery
For decades, Charlotte Plastic Surgery has been the area’s most trusted provider of cosmetic interventions. Now, with the opening of The Skin Center by CPS, we also offer a greater emphasis than ever on non-surgical treatments and solutions.
We’d love to tell you more about the services that we offer, to answer your questions, and to discuss the treatments that are right for you. The first step is sitting down for a private consultation. When you’re ready to chat about RBF or anything else, connect with Charlotte Plastic Surgery directly.
