Facial wrinkles and creases begin to appear as the underlying collagen and elastin fibers begin to break down and wear out. While this breakdown is part of the natural agin process, it can also result fromexcessive squinting, frowning, smoking and smiling.

Botox is the latest advancement in botulinum toxin therapy. It is used to safely, simply and effectively improve the appearance of frown lines, forehead creases and "crow's feet". By relazing these underlying muscles, Botox reduces the wrinkles. Botox is a remarkable treatment for dynamic wrinkles resulting from repeated use of facial muscles. Botox injections are safe and have been approved by the FDA for use in neurological disorders for over 30 years.

Botox actually prevents wrinkles from appearing by relaxing the underlying muscles so they don't contract. Botox blocks impulses from nerve to they tiny facial muscles that are related to expression lines. After treatment, the overlying skin remains smooth and unwrinkled while the untreated facial muscles contract in a a normal fashion, allowing your normal facial expression to be unaffected. There is zero recovery time and little discomfort. Treatment with Botox typically lasts about 3 months; repeated treatments can be spaced farther apart.

Sculptra - Poly-L-Lactic Acid

Sculptra is an injectable product that is intended to restore and correct the signs of facial fat loss. Sculptra is not made from human or animal sources (which require a skin test), therefore this synthetic filler will last a long time. Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) which is biocompatible and biodegradable. This chemical works by recruiting new cells to produce the substance required to give skins its texture. Sculptra is a filler substance that can be used to provide bulk into thinning skins providing volume where fact has been lost and helping restore fullness to the face for a more natural appearance. Sculptra is approved by the FDA for treatmentof lipoatrophy for HIV+ patients. In addition, it is commonly used as a filler substance for treatment of the nasolabial groove and thinning cheeks.

Excellent results can be achieved by treating all parts of the face including the forehead, around the eyes and lips, between the mouth and nose, and the cheeks. It is equally effective on the neck and lower neckline. Typically treatments take 15-30 minutes and multiple treatments (at least 2-3) are required. Treatments are typically scheduled for the following day since Sculptra must be reconstituted at least 4 hours before treatment. Results after 1 month show about 25% improvement; however, additional treatments add substantial bulk to the area. Once the results are stabilized, the results typically persist at least 2 years.

Restylane is a natural product and collagen alternative that has been used in Europe for years. It contains hyaluronic acid in the form of a crystal-clear gel which is injected into the skin to lift the lip, or fill in wrinkles or folks. Once in your skin, it creates volume, resulting in a healthy and vital appearance. Fine lines on the upper and lower lip that are not severe enough to require laser resurfacing fill nicely with Restylane. Deeper wrinkles and folkds in the cheek areas (nasolabial, melolabila and lines at the corners of the mouth) also respond well using Restylane. It can also be use to help contour lips, soften pouty downturned corners of the lips and has up to twice the longevity of standard collagen implant treatments.

Since Restylane is a naturally synthesized product that is part of the normal structure of the deep skin and not extracted from animals, there is no risk of allergic reaction. Following injections, normal activities can be resumed immediately. Treament with Restylane typically lasts about 6 months. Find out if this procedure is beneficial to you. Call our office for a consultation.

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