AGE APPROPRIATE REJUVENATION
BOTOX®
BOTOX® is chemical product that is used to prevent or treat dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are formed by the strong action of a
particular facial muscle and can lead to permanent wrinkles. The key to appropriate Botox use is to have a good understanding of facial
anatomy and to recognize areas of concern before the wrinkles become permanently etched in the skin. Unfortunately, in an effort to
eliminate wrinkles, BOTOX® commonly in misused and has been known to cause a masked and unnatural appearance. One needs to keep in mind
that facial movement is a natural process that needs to be preserved.
It also is important to remember that the earlier one treats a hyperactive muscle, the better the ultimate outcome. Low-dose BOTOX®
therapy is a good tool when addressing dynamic wrinkles. However, in more mature patients where the dynamic wrinkles have become permanent,
fillers may also be needed.
FILLERS
Fillers are a group of products that are injected into wrinkles and areas of hollowing. The differences in various types of fillers
are usually a reflection of their biochemical properties, such as molecule size and how long they last. Most hyaluronic acid fillers last
about six months, and within each brand different molecule sizes are available. Smaller molecules are better utilized for superficial
wrinkles, whereas larger molecule products are more suitable for deeper injections.
FAT INJECTIONS
Fat is a truly natural filler, and it is available in every individual. A person's own fat can be taken from an unwanted area to target
visible signs of aging in other areas such as in the face or the hands. Areas around the eyes, cheeks, mouth and chin can be discreetly
filled with fat without visible scars. Fat injections usually require only local anesthesia and occasional oral sedatives, and bring on
mild to moderate swelling that goes down over one to two weeks.
This less-invasive method can be more acceptable to younger patients in their 30s and 40s who would otherwise not want invasive surgery.
As such, patients not only will look better at a younger age, but will also benefit from the preventive effect of early filling.
THERMAGE
Thermage is a non-surgical technology that utilizes radio-frequency energy to promote collagen deposition and skin tightening. This treatment
causes a gradual improvement in skin quality over several months and requires no down time or recovery period. More than one treatment may be
needed to achieve visible or tactile results.
Thermage has been successfully used to tighten the skin on any area of the body that is showing early signs of aging. By promoting collagen
synthesis and contraction, it can help younger patients as a preventive measure to counter the ongoing sagging and thinning of the skin.
LASER & LIGHT-BASED THERAPY
In general, lasers and light-based therapies address problems in the superficial layer of the skin. Lasers can be used to address difficult
pigmentation problems, such as age spots, that do not improve with basic skin care and peels. They also can be used for skin resurfacing and
to improve overall skin quality. However, they usually require a significant recovery period. Light-based modalities such as intense pulsed
light (IPL-photofacial) are less invasive than lasers and help improve pigments and general skin condition after multiple treatments.
REJUVENATION GUIDELINES
Continuous use of one or a combination of these preventive tools can help transform the skin from wrinkled and sagging to a healthy appearance
of youth and vitality. While it is very important to recommend treatment on a person-by-person basis, it also is helpful to know which procedures
work best for a particular age group.
Age 20-30 Skin Care, Peel, Botox, Filler, Thermage (late 20’s)
Age 30-40 Skin Care, Peel, Botox, Filler, Thermage, Fat Transfer
Age 40-50 Skin Care, Peel, Botox, Thermage, Fat Transfer
Age 50-60 Skin Care, Peel, Fat Transfer, Mini Face and Neck Lift, Eyelid and Brow Surgery
Age 60+ Skin Care, Peel, Fat Transfer, Face and Neck Lift, Eyelid and Brow Surgery
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