Putting Your Best Face Forward
What’s New (and what really works) in the World of Aesthetics
From a relaxing facial to cosmetic surgery, there are lots of options to consider when you decide you want to feel and look your very best. The winter months are a great time to consider these services and procedures since minimal sun exposure ensures longer- lasting results.
Q: What can I do about those tiny lines around my lips?
A: Restylane® and other dermal fillers can plump up the skin bordering your lips to minimize the appearance of fine lines. The results last 4-6 months with very little down time. The procedure provides immediate results.
Autologous fat injections into the lips are another option. This procedure involves removing your own body fat and then injecting it into the lip area. The results last longer than restylane and other dermal fillers. Patients may experience some post-procedure swelling.
A microlaser peel to the entire face or limited to the mouth area will also decrease fine lines and wrinkles. This procedure provides longer lasting results than the options described above. Some patients may experience approximately 5-7 days of facial redness and swelling.
Kenton Schoonover, MD FACS
Wichita Clinic
Q: How can I rid myself of the puffy bags under my eyes?
A: Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure that removes excess fat, skin and muscle above and below the eyes. This procedure requires between 1-3 hours of surgery. It may take several weeks for bruising and swelling to subside. The results last several years.
Soy-based skin care products act as a natural estrogen to decrease puffiness. Skin care products with anti-inflammatory properties can also reduce under-eye puffiness.
Mineral make-up conceals puffiness and contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties to help treat the skin.
Jennifer Burgoyne, M.D.
Wichita Clinic
Q: What are my options for reducing or removing crows feet, forehead wrinkles, and crevices between the eyebrows?
A: Botox® injections are a simple non-surgical procedure that smoothes lines by relaxing the overactive muscles that cause wrinkles. This procedure can be performed in less than fifteen minutes with no down time. Results last approximately three months.
Restylane® and collagen injections provide instant wrinkle correction that lasts 4-6 months. There is no down time and the procedure only requires fifteen minutes.
Richard DeSplinter, M.D.
Wichita Clinic
Q: What can I do to improve skin damaged by the sun or acne?
A: Photorejuvenation is an intense pulse light treatment that reduces large pores, fine wrinkles and superficial skin damage from sun, acne or aging. Several treatments may be required to achieve optimal results. This procedure may produce a slight swelling and pink skin or facial redness that lasts several days.
Microdermabrasian exfoliates the outer layer of dead skin cells promoting the growth of healthy new skin. The procedure requires approximately 45 minutes with no down time.
Consider a chemical peel to remove damaged skin layers. Your aesthetician will recommend the type of peel you need after evaluating the condition of your skin. The down time varies depending on the type of peel you select. A peel requires about 30 minutes.
Sun block and skin care products will protect your improved skin and prevent future damage.
Betty Troutman, M.D.
Wichita Clinic
Q: What other skin-freshening techniques are available?
A: One 10-micron microlaser peel is equivalent to 4-6 microdermabrasion treatments. Healing occurs in 3-4 days. A series of 2-4 treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart provides the best results.
A regenerating facial is part of a monthly skincare regime. Facials include a complete skin analysis, deep cleansing, exfoliation, masque, and a relaxing neck and shoulder massage. Cleansing and rehydrating your skin never felt so good. Specialized facials are available for those combating acne or treating rosacea. Plan for an hour-long session.
Stanley Capper, M.D.
Wichita Clinic
Q: What about unwanted facial hair?
A: Laser hair removal is beneficial for unwanted facial hair. It is also effective for removing hair on legs and in the bikini area. Several treatments are required to achieve best results. Skin may be pink and slightly swollen for 24 hours following the procedure.
John Robichaux, M.D.
Wichita Clinic
Most physicians and clinics accept major charge cards for services, procedures, cosmeceuticals and mineral make-up. Cosmetic procedures and services are rarely covered by medical insurance plans.
It’s important to feel comfortable with the physician or skin care specialist you select for any of these procedures and services. Consider scheduling a consultation to learn more about the options that are best for you.
Putting Your Best Face Forward
Originally published in WOMEN’S FOCUS MAGAZINE
Jan/Feb 2005
(Granted permission for reprint).
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