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Many non-operative procedures are available to address facial or body concerns with less down time than surgery may require. Some are simply and quickly performed in the office without any downtime, while others are “minimally invasive” and may involve some bruising, discoloration or a short period of recuperation.
Aging, genetics, sun exposure, smoking, weight fluctuations, previous surgery and medications can all affect the way skin ‘ages’. Although these cannot be reversed, options are available to improve the appearance of the skin and minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
CHEMICAL PEELS performed in a physician’s office are designed to remove freckles, hormonal or sun associated pigmentation, age spots and to minimize fine lines. Medium depth chemical peels differ from salon ‘peels’ which often require a series of treatments to see even slight improvement. Retin A may be added to maintain, or enhance, the benefit seen.
DERMABRASION is used in areas of thicker skin to carefully remove outer layers of skin. Dermabrasion offers an excellent option for upper lip creases and to soften the edges of acne scars. Dermabrasion differs from ‘micro-dermabrasion’ which exfoliate the skin with small silica sand.
INJECTIBLES, also called fillers, are a tremendous option for isolated wrinkles and creases. We use FDA approved fillers and they can be of short to long duration. The exact duration of effect depends on age, skin type, lifestyle and muscle activity. In some areas results are improved with other procedures such as Botox®. The most common sites ‘filled’ are the upper lip, crease from the nose to the corner of the mouth, lower corners of the mouth, acne scars and lines under the eyes.
Injectibles Results
Radiesse™ (Radiance) is a gel and calcium hydroxylapatite combination which is not known to produce an allergic reaction or inflammation. Radiesse™ is most effectively used in the upper & lower lip, lower corners of the mouth and naso-labial crease. The main advantage of Radiesse™ over other injectables is that results last 1-3 years. For more information on Radiesse™ visit www.bioforminc.com
Restylane® is a hyaluronic acid product with a very low incidence of inflammation or irritation. Restylane® pulls water in from surrounding tissues and gives a ‘plumping’ effect with natural volume. It is most commonly used to soften under the eyes, fill the lips or naso-labial folds. Effects last approximately 6 months. For more information about Restylane® visit: www.restylane.com
Captique™ is very similar to Restylane®. It is used to fill under the eyes, in the upper or lower lip or naso-labial folds and lower corners of the mouth. Captique lasts approximately 6 months. For more information on Captique™ visit www.inamed.com
BOTOX® smoothes fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing very specific facial muscles. BOTOX® is most commonly used for the "expression lines" of the forehead, around the eyes and between the eyebrows. By combining this with other very precise injection sites Dr. Kennedy can provide a ‘chemical brow lift’ or relaxation of the entire forehead. When BOTOX® is injected by a qualified plastic surgeon the chances of drooping eyebrows, sagging eyelid skin or other less desirable side effects are minimized. BOTOX® is FDA approved, very safe and can also be used to reduce sweating in the underarms or palms of the hands. The effects of BOTOX® last for 4-8 months depending on the area injected and degree of wrinkles being treated.
Botox® Results
For additional information on BOTOX® visit www.botox.com
Laser Treatment
Lasers represent an exciting technology which encompass a variety of different lasers to treat unwanted facial and leg veins, rosacea, age spots, unwanted hair, tattoos, birthmarks and to perform precise skin resurfacing. The advantages and results of lasers can be amazing, but lasers are not appropriate for all patients. Specific lasers are required for the optimal treatment of different problems. Consultation is required to explore your goals and the appropriate options available.
Skin Resurfacing - UltraPulse laser technology provides a minimally invasive option to treat sun-damaged skin, facial wrinkles, pigment irregularities and scars.
Laser technology allows Dr. Kennedy to very precisely, rapidly and accurately treat one layer of skin at a time to minimize imperfections and allow the skin to "re-grow" thicker and healthier in appearance and structure.
More information: Laser Skin Resurfacing
Small Vein Trestment - There are different sized veins throughout the body with the smallest veins on the skin being called telangectasias. These can be seen as spider veins, rosacea or knobby blood vessel bumps. Very small vessels are effectively treated with lasers. Slightly larger veins may require injection to shrink the vein prior to laser treatment.
Hair Reduction - Certain lasers are specific for hair pigment and can reduce the presence of dark hair on the face, legs, bikini line, axilla or on the back or neck in men. Several treatments are required to 'clear' an area and intermittent re-treatment may be required.
Tattoo Removal - Tattoo pigment can be removed with the aid of lasers. Multiple laser treatments provide clearing of tattoo pigment, leaving very normal appearing skin. Certain colors are more resistant to treatment than others.
Referral Program
Dr. Kennedy believes the results of many facial surgeries are enhanced with a comprehensive skin care program. Some surgeries require skin pre-treatment, or patients may benefit from information and teaching on camouflage cosmetics for use after surgery. In other cases, questions about routine skin care or make-up can be of benefit to our patients.
Plastic Surgery Aesthetics, PC and Opalus Salon & Spa have developed a referral program covering aesthetician services, skin mapping, skin care, make-up and skin treatments as well as treatment programs in preparation for surgery. Call to ask about details about the program.
Copy adapted from the joint ASPS and PSEF website.
