As we get older and the youthful appearance of our skin changes, so do our expectations and perceptions.
Time is not kind to our skin, especially those of us prone to drier complexions, overexposure to sunlight or, according to WebMD, mothers in the aftermath of menopause.
To help our patients understand the different treatment options, Suria Plastic Surgery is providing a multi-part information series called: Forever Young.
Here are some highlights:
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons provides “Beauty For Life” guidlines for Facial rejuvenation.
A Facelift is a surgical procedure designed to restore the natural, youthful contours of the face. This is done by repositioning and removal of excess skin while also tightening the muscles underneath the skin. In order to provide the face with a natural fullness, the volume of the face will be repositioned and restored during this process.
Medical Spas may be a good way to gain insight and an introduction into one set of minimally-invasive options, such as Eye Treatments and Chemical Peels.
There is another minimally-invasive option: Injectable Treatments/Facial Fillers.
In 2012, an article in the LA Times expressed the excitement over what Fillers are doing to relax skin, and ultimately, prevent aging.
This first installment of our Forever Young series will focus on one category of “Injectable” treatments ideal for addressing worry, frown and laugh lines, crows feet, upper lip lines and other dynamic wrinkles – which are caused by contractions of the underlying facial muscles as you smile, laugh or frown.
Neuromodulators are injected into the skin to block impulses from the nerve to the tiny facial muscles that cause these lines, so the muscles do not contract. Other benefits include: Decreasing sweating, relieving headaches and increased volume to facial structures.
The following is a list of Neuromodulators Suria Plastic Surgery provides, with simple information about how each one can help you:
- Botox: As the most well-known Neuromodulator, it has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Botox is a paralytic medication that blocks the nerve transmissions to the muscles. This reduces the muscle activity that causes wrinkles of the face. After treatments, the muscles relax and the overlying skin becomes smooth and unwrinkled. Botox treatments soften the appearance of wrinkles, producing a natural youthful contour of the face. A topical cream can be used to minimize pain and discomfort before and after the treatment.
- Dysport: Approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Dysport can be used as an alternative to Botox treatments. Like Botox, Dysport is a minimally invasive treatment that blocks the nerve transmissions to the muscles of the face. This will reduce the muscle activity that causes wrinkles of the face. After treatments, the muscles will relax and the overlying skin becomes smooth and unwrinkled. Dysport treatments soften the appearance of wrinkles, producing a natural youthful contour of the face. A topical cream can be used to minimize pain and discomfort before and after the treatment. Be aware that this may take 4 or 5 days to become noticeable.
- Xeomin: Typically injected into muscles in between the eyebrows to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines. It is also used to treat Cervical Dystonia (severe spasms in the neck muscles) and certain eye muscle conditions caused by nerve disorders. This includes uncontrolled blinking or spasm of the eyelids. Occasionally, a very small amount can be injected around the mouth and near the jaw to soften these areas.
It is important to note that Botox, Dysport and Xeomin can be used for non-surgical reshaping of the lower face, but they do not take effect immediately.
As always, we are happy to consult with you to make sure you select the right option for your situation.
Ultimately, this is your skin, so make educated decisions to treat it well!