Injectables

Minimally invasive procedures have become the most requested procedures for facial rejuvenation. A recent survey of plastic surgeons showed that Botulinum (Botox®, Dysport®) injections and hyaluronic acid filler injections (Juvederm®, Restylane®) are now the two most popular procedures performed.

Botulinum (Botox, Dysport)

The earliest lines and wrinkles to form are those located in the areas of the muscles of facial expression. These “dynamic” wrinkles form due to repetitive contraction of facial muscles in areas such as the corners of the eyes (crow’s feet), between the eyebrows and on the forehead.

Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox, Dysport) may be used to weaken these muscles, reducing the pull of the muscle on the skin and flattening out the wrinkles. It also may be used in certain patients with prominent muscle bands in the neck to help create a more youthful neckline. Botox is injected in the office and is usually very well tolerated. There may be some swelling or bruising around the injection site that resolves quickly. Placing ice over the injection site immediately after the procedure may help avoid bruising. Avoiding blood-thinning medications around the time of the injection will help as well. The results last approximately 3-4 months.

There are many benefits to minimally invasive facial rejuvenation such as Botox treatments and facial fillers. They may provide an affordable way to achieve a more youthful appearance. Many people are also looking for ways to appear more refreshed, but are not able to afford a week or two of downtime that may be required after more invasive rejuvenation procedures.

When considering the various possibilities it is important to be sure that the most effective treatment plan is developed based upon your personal desires and expectations. Some patients may be candidates for minimally invasive procedures alone. Others may benefit from minimally invasive procedures combined with surgical procedures in order to optimize the results.

The best way to develop an individualized facial rejuvenation plan is through a consultation with a facial plastic surgeon who has knowledge of all elements of facial rejuvenation, including surgical and non-surgical options. This way you can be assured that you are given all of the latest options available allowing for optimal results while renewing your appearance!

Injectable fillers

Deeper creases or folds form as the surrounding skin and soft tissues on the face descend with the effects of aging and gravity.  Injectable fillers such as collagen or hyaluronic acid provide an excellent minimally-invasive way to fill creases or depressions in areas such as the nasolabial folds, marionette lines or around the lips.  They may also be used for lip augmentation.

There are many forms of injectable fillers that may be used including; collagen, fat transfer, hyaluronic acid (Juvederm, Restylane), calcium hydroxyapatite (Radiesse) and poly-Lactic acid (Sculptra). Discussing the options during your consultation will enable you to make the decision that is best suited for you. You should expect a variable degree of swelling after the procedure depending on which filler is used. This swelling is resolves quickly. The length of the results will vary depending on the product that is used.

There are many benefits to minimally invasive facial rejuvenation such as Botox treatments and facial fillers. They may provide an affordable way to achieve a more youthful appearance. Many people are also looking for ways to appear more refreshed, but are not able to afford a week or two of downtime that may be required after more invasive rejuvenation procedures.

When considering the various possibilities it is important to be sure that the most effective treatment plan is developed based upon your personal desires and expectations. Some patients may be candidates for minimally invasive procedures alone. Others may benefit from minimally invasive procedures combined with surgical procedures in order to optimize the results.

The best way to develop an individualized facial rejuvenation plan is through a consultation with a facial plastic surgeon who has knowledge of all elements of facial rejuvenation, including surgical and non-surgical options. This way you can be assured that you are given all of the latest options available allowing for optimal results while renewing your appearance!