Cosmetic Injections
…. to soften frown lines, smile creases and wrinkles.
Facial Injections
The changes of aging in the face often make a person look tired or worried, with laxity of the skin and the onset of wrinkles adding to the effect of aging. Weight loss and serious illness can cause the face to look even older. Injections of fillers or fat, to wrinkles and to the soft tissues of the cheeks and around the eyes, can restore a youthful and healthy appearance to many patients.
Whenever preparing for any types of facial injections it is important to stay away from medications or supplements that can make you bleed and bruise more. If it can be done safely from a medical perspective, aspirin and blood thinners should be stopped 5-7 days prior to the procedure (patients may have to verify this with their primary care physician if unsure). Over the counter medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil) and Naproxen (Aleve) should be avoided as well as supplements such as fish oil and Vitamin E. Even if such precautions are taken, it is still possible to bruise after injections, so if necessary Dr Anna can give the patient somecamouflage makeup to help cover some of the bruising.
Fillers (Juvederm, Restylane etc.)
As we age, skin thins out and forms deep creases and lines. By injecting fillers (such as hyaluronic acid - a natural component of skin, or other synthetic fillers) either directly into the skin or underneath it, these lines can be dramatically lessened and sometimes even erased. There are many different types of fillers available on the market and each plastic surgeon may have his or her preferences.
Whatever is used, fat injections and fillers around the eyes, lips and to the cheeks can give a refreshed and youthful appearance.
Further information on fillers can be obtained from the different filler websites -Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero (hyaluronic acid fillers) or Radiesse and Sculptra (non-hyaluronic acid fillers) as well as from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery websites. Dr Anna has a personal preference of using fillers made of Hyaluronic acid, as they are natural components of skin and tissue. In the event of a result that is not optimal, they can be dissloved using hyaluronidase injections.
Botulinum Toxin (Botox, Dysport and Xeomin)
Whenever you smile, laugh or frown, your face moves with the contraction of the delicate muscles in your face. Over the years, permanent creases and lines can form, that now can be treated with a simple injection of Botulinum toxin.
Botulinum toxin is taken up by nerves causing muscle weakness or paralysis. It will temporarily soften facial lines and wrinkles, making the overlying skin look smoother and younger. Usually the effect is seen within several days of the treatment, and typically lasts from three to four months. Because it only lasts temporarily, patients may decide to have repeat injections three to four times a year, to repeatedly weaken the muscle. After several years, the injections may not be needed as frequently as the muscles will weaken and atrophy from lack of use.
Further information on Botulinum Toxin can be obtained from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons as well as from following sites - Botox, Dysport and Xeomin. Of these three FDA approved formulations of Botulinum toxin, Dr. Anna most often uses Botox.
Who is a good candidate for Botox?
Patients with wrinkles from facial expression (especially around the eyes and between the brows) are good candidates for Botox. It will not, however, help with sun-damaged sun damaged skin, nor with sagging or loose skin.
Patients who have neurological disorders, who are pregnant or nursing should not have Botox. Certain antibiotics and heart medications also may potentate the effects of Botox, and should not be given at the same time.
More information about cosmetic injections in general can be obtained from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, as well as American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery .