Frequently Asked Questions

Acne Q&A's

Why does acne occur?

Acne occurs for a variety of reasons including an inability of skin cells to shed properly, causing the pores to plug, forcing the oil and bacteria that would naturally escape to be trapped inside. As the oil and bacteria accumulates, the skin becomes inflamed and swells outward forming the familiar whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Acne is seen in many age groups, but is most common in teens and frequently appears on the face, neck, shoulders, back, and chest.

How does the laser help clear acne?

Light pulses are delivered through the skin's surface, targeting an organic compound generated by the Propionibacterium acnes (p. acne) bacteria called porphyrin. These porphyrins are photosensitive and when targeted by light, generate singlet oxygen, which kill the p. acne bacteria that cause inflammation.

How long should the treatment take?

Treatment times will vary depending on the size of the treatment area, though a full face will frequently take about 20 minutes.

How many treatments should I need?

Physicians who have conducted acne laser treatments frequently start with a four treatment course, two per week for two weeks. More treatments may be needed for more severe acne.

How long do the effects last?

Clinical data suggests that most patients find their acne improves after two weeks of twice weekly treatments. While many patients continue to improve over the months following treatment, some patients experience a plateau in their improvement. Repeated treatments may be necessary to maintain results.

How effective is the laser?

In studies conducted at Wellman Labs in Massachusetts and at a private facility in California, 91% of patients saw their acne improve by an average of 66%. In the most recent clinical study patients saw their acne become 81% less severe.

What will happen in the procedures?

After discussing your medical history, including any drugs you are currently taking, with your medical practitioner, the treatment area will be cleaned and a thin layer of clear gel will be applied. Your practitioner will glide the laser handpiece over the treatment area in a brushing motion as the laser light is pulsed safely through the skin.

Is it painful?

Many patients describe the laser pulses as feeling like the snap of a rubber band against the skin, however treatments done over active lesions may be more uncomfortable. Your medical practitioner may recommend a topical anesthetic in order to make treatments more comfortable.

When should I see results?

Patients frequently see results within the first week following treatment.

Are there side effects?

Immediately following the procedure patients may experience mild to moderate redness and swelling that will fade in as little as a couple hours to as much as a few days.

Can I apply makeup right afterwards?

Yes.

Vascular Lesions (Leg veins and broken capillaries)

How does the treatment work?

The Lyra-i Laser produces a 1064nm wavelength. While the rest of the skin is almost completely transparent for this wavelength, it is highly absorbed in blood. Thus, the laser beam passes through the skin and penetrates the targeted vessel. The laser energy heats up and coagulates blood inside the vessel. Unsupported, vessel walls collapse and seal. These vessels later dissolve within the body.
The laser energy is delivered through a hand-held device with a cooling tip. The cooling tip provides additional safety and comfort during the treatment by lowering the thermal effect on your skin surface.

What can I expect during the treatment?

You may experience a stinging sensation during the treatment, which resolves immediately after the treatment is over. In some cases, you may be offered topical anesthetic cream, which may eliminate much of the discomfort associated with the treatment.

What should I expect after the procedure?

The appearance of the treated vessels will dramatically change turning from blue and purple into light red. Some of the vessels may bulge, however, any inflammation will disappear within a couple of hours. The redness of the treated vessels will be gradually disappearing as the healing process occurs, which may take anywhere between 2 and 6 weeks depending on the severity of the veins.

The post-operative treatment regime may include wearing pressure hose, avoiding medication containing aspirin and wearing sunscreen. Make sure to discuss these options with your laser practitioner prior to the treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Depending on the severity of the veins, you may require anywhere between one and three treatments six weeks apart. The treatment is performed on the existing vessels, diminishing or completely eliminating their appearance. However, the development of new veins cannot be prevented. If your body tends to develop vascular problems you will most likely come back for additional treatments.

Wrinkles Q&A

What lasers treat wrinkles?

The Venus, Lyra and Gemini. The Venus Laser is ablative and improves wrinkles by removing the top most layer of skin. A new layer of skin then grows over the treated area forming a new, smoother layer of skin. In contrast the Lyra and Gemini are non-ablative and work by stimulating collagen production from inside the skin. As a general statement the Venus works from the outside in while the Lyra and Gemini work from the inside out.

How many treatments are needed for reduction of facial wrinkles using the Lyra or Gemini?

The treatment of facial wrinkles is progressive with very little down time, results will begin to be apparent after the 3rd treatment. Generally five to eight treatments are required, spaced two to four weeks apart.

What skin conditions can be treated?

Many facial conditions such as fine wrinkling around the eyelids, forehead, nose and mouth can be smoothened by laser skin resurfacing. Deep laugh and frown lines can be minimized. Even the lingering effects of scars, irregular surgical scars, and other surface abnormalities can be successfully treated.

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel Q&A

What is JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is the only HA filler with FDA approval to last up to one year.* Ask your physician how you can get long-lasting results with JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel. JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is a “next-generation” smooth consistency gel dermal filler that helps to instantly restore your skin's volume and smooth away facial wrinkles and folds like your “smile lines” or “parentheses” (nasolabial folds—the creases that run from the bottom of your nose to the corners of your mouth). JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel comes in two formulations: JUVEDERM™ Ultra and JUVEDERM™ Ultra Plus.

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is indicated for injection into the mid to deep dermis for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as nasolabial folds).

What does JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel do?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel temporarily adds volume to facial tissue and restores a smoother appearance to the face.

What is JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel indicated for?

JUVEDERM™ Ultra and JUVEDERM™ Ultra Plus injectable gels are indicated for injection into the mid to deep dermis (below the outer layer of skin) for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds (the creases running from the bottom of your nose to the corners of your mouth, aka smile lines or parentheses).

Why does JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel come in two formulations?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is available in two formulations to allow your healthcare professional to tailor treatment to your unique needs. JUVEDERM™ Ultra provides versatility in contouring and volumizing facial wrinkles and folds. JUVEDERM™ Ultra Plus is a more robust formulation for volumizing and correcting deeper folds and wrinkles.

What makes JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel different from other dermal fillers?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is the ONLY hyaluronic acid (HA) filler FDA approved to last up to 1 year.* Our unique manufacturing process provides a high concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid for long-lasting results. It also works to create a smooth consistency gel that flows easily into the skin and provides a smooth, natural look and feel. All other hyaluronic acid dermal fillers currently on the market are made of granular consistency gels. And, JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler that has demonstrated its safety and effectiveness in persons of color.

*JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is indicated for injection into the mid to deep dermis for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as nasolabial folds).

How is JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel different from BOTOX® Cosmetic?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is a “next-generation” hyaluronic acid dermal filler that provides volume and is used to treat wrinkles and folds resulting from a loss of volume beneath the surface of the skin such as perioral lines and nasolabial folds (lines around your mouth and nose). JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel restores your skin's volume for a smooth, natural look and feel. BOTOX® Cosmetic is not a filler. BOTOX® Cosmetic relaxes muscle activity and is used to treat moderate to severe lines caused by the dominant frown muscles between the eyebrows (the glabellar area). This allows the two vertical lines between the brows, often referred to as the “11,” to temporarily diminish for a smoother appearance. For important safety information about BOTOX® Cosmetic, see below.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in all mammals that helps to hydrate and add volume to your skin. In addition to its use as an aesthetic treatment, hyaluronic acid has also been used for more than 20 years for injection into arthritic joints to aid movement as well as for eye surgeries and wound repair.

What is cross-linked hyaluronic acid?

“Uncross-linked” hyaluronic acid in its natural form is in a liquid state. “Cross-linking” is the process through which hyaluronic acid is made into a gel product that can be injected into the skin for long-lasting results.

How is JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel used in treatment?

Your healthcare provider eases JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel into the skin using a fine needle to temporarily fill in and augment the treatment area and smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds such as “smile lines” or “parentheses” (nasolabial folds) and “marionette lines” (oral commissures). JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel temporarily adds volume to the skin and may give the appearance of a smoother surface.

What will treatment with JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel accomplish?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel will help to smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. Most patients need one treatment to achieve optimal wrinkle smoothing. And one treatment could smooth your lines and wrinkles for up to 1 year. Ask your doctor what you should expect from your initial treatment and when they would recommend rescheduling another appointment.

Is treatment with JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel painful?

Injections may cause some discomfort during and after the injection. The smooth consistency gel of JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel allows your doctor to administer it easily and smoothly. And, JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is injected directly into the skin using a fine needle to reduce injection discomfort. Your doctor may choose to numb (anesthetize) the treatment area to further minimize discomfort.

How long does treatment usually take?

The injection process takes only about 15 minutes. You'll also need to allow time to consult with your doctor prior to treatment.

What kind of doctor can provide treatment with JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel?

Any authorized healthcare professional can administer JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel, but dermatologists, plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors), or physicians specializing in cosmetic procedures are generally more experienced.

Does the correction last forever?

No. Correction is temporary; therefore, touch-up injections as well as repeat injections are usually needed to maintain optimal corrections.

How long do results last?

JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gelis the ONLY hyaluronic acid (HA) filler FDA approved to last up to 1 year.* Talk to your healthcare professional about JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel today—so you can start seeing results!

*JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is indicated for injection into the mid to deep dermis for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as nasolabial folds).

What are the possible side effects of JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel?

Most side effects are mild or moderate in nature, and their duration is short lasting (7 days or less). The most common side effects include, but are not limited to, temporary injections site reactions such as redness, pain/tenderness, firmness, swelling, lumps/bumps, bruising, itching, and discoloration. As with all skin injection procedures there is a risk of infection.

Can people with different skin tones/colors be treated with JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel?

Yes. In fact, JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel is the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler that has proven its safety and effectiveness in persons of color. Studies with JUVEDERM™ Injectable Gel showed no increased risk of hyperpigmentation or hypertrophic scarring in patients of color.

 

Hair Removal Q&A's

How does the process work?

Through a process called Selective Photothermolysis laser light is passed through the skin and is absorbed by pigment in the hair follicle. The heat generated by the laser light both injures the follicle and inhibits future growth, while leaving the skin unharmed.

What may I be asked before treatment?

A treatment specialist will likely run through your medical history to see if you have had any issues that may impact the procedures safety. For example: have you had keloid scarring, used Accutane in the last 6 months, etc.) In addition the specialist will request that you not wax, pluck, or tweeze for four weeks preceding the treatments as doing so may reduce the effectiveness of the treatments. Note: shaving should not affect results.

What can I expect during treatment?

Laser light will be delivered through a hand held wand attached to a laser console. You may experience a stinging sensation as the laser pulse is delivered. To reduce discomfort, the cooling system automatically removes heat from the surface of your skin before, during and after the laser exposure. You should not need general anesthesia or pain medication, but a topical anesthetic cream may be applied to sensitive areas. The process can take from just a few minutes for an upper lip to several hours for a full back and legs.

How many treatments will the patient need for hair removal?

Hair growth involves several cycles and, thus, some hairs may be affected during a single treatment and some may not. We have seen that after several treatments most terminal (mature) hairs are replaced with finer hairs of lighter color. Some hairs are completely eliminated. Although complete hair removal may not be achieved, the hairs become less visible and, thus, less bothersome. The number of treatments needed to obtain optimal results varies with hair density, color and growth cycle as well as skin type, though it is common to have 3-4, and possibly as many as 8, treatments; one every 4-8 weeks. Results will improve with each subsequent treatment.

What can I expect after treatment?

The treated area is cleansed and you are free to return to your normal routine. Some patients may experience a slight reddening around hair follicles, though this will typically disappear within a few minutes. It is always recommended that you avoid sun exposure or use sunscreen following treatment.
Several days after treatment injured hair follicles will begin to fall out, a process that can be sped up by lightly rubbing the skin with a towel. It may seem that some hair continues to grow for several weeks after the procedure, but many of these will also fall out. What hair that is not eliminated will likely be replaced by thinner, lighter, significantly less noticeable hair.

How "permanent" is "permanent" following the course of epilation treatment?

Since the procedure is very new and people go through so many stages in their lives it is impossible to completely determine at this time. However, we have seen up to 2 years with no hair re-growth following several treatments.

Pseud ofolliculitis (shaving bumps)

What is Pseudo-Folliculitis?

Pseudo-folliculitis (PF), commonly known as shaving bumps, is an inflammatory condition, widespread among individuals with thick curly hair. As the hair grows out of the skin, it curls and re-enters the skin. The skin reacts to it as a foreign object and becomes inflamed and irritated, creating bumps and discoloration. Often hairs start curling even before growing out of the skin, creating in-grown hairs. These bumps become quite large, causing discomfort to the patient.
Sometimes relief can be achieved with the use of topical steroids and exfoliating agents. Growing hair is sometimes curative as well. More commonly, the ingrown hair is pulled out after each shaving session. Although this is a solution, it is, however, painful and time consuming.

How does the treatment work?

The laser beam passes through the skin and is absorbed in the hair follicle residing underneath the skin surface. The laser energy destroys the follicle with the heat that it generates. Destroyed hairs are then either dissolved within the skin or extruded by the body. Because the laser beam is larger in diameter than the hair follicle, a large number of hairs can be treated simultaneously.

What should I expect during treatment?

Most patients experience a stinging or burning sensation when a laser pulse is delivered. While general anesthesia will not be required, a topical anesthetic may be applied to sensitive skin. To further reduce discomfort, Lyra and Gemini both utilize a special cooling system that lowers the temperature of the skin at the treatment site before, during and after laser exposure.

What should I expect after treatment?

After treatment, you may return to your regular routine immediately. Some patients may experience a slight reddening around the hair follicles immediately following treatment which typically disappears within a few minutes.
It will seem that the hair continues to grow for a period of one to two weeks after laser treatment, but in fact, these hairs are actually lifeless and are simply being cast out by your body.

How many treatments will be needed?

Laser treatment impairs the growth of hair follicles when they are in the growth cycle at the time of treatment. All hair follicles are not active at the same time. Depending upon the growth cycle of the follicles when the treatment is applied, multiple treatments, spaced a few weeks apart, may be required to obtain the overall desired effect.

BOTOX® Cosmetic

What exactly is BOTOX® Cosmetic?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. It is a non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily reduce moderate to severe frown lines between the brows. During treatment, very low doses of BOTOX® Cosmetic are administered via a few tiny injections directly into the muscles that cause those stubborn lines. The treatment is usually done in about 10 minutes, and no recovery time is needed. Within days, you may see an improvement that can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.

How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?

Those moderate to severe frown lines between your brows form over time as the result of muscle activity. BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected directly into the muscles between your brows. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles; this reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those persistent lines to form.

When will I see results from a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?

Within days, you may see a marked improvement in the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and results can last for up to 4 months. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of men and women rated the improvement in their appearance as moderate to better 1 month after treatment. Results may vary.

How long does BOTOX® Cosmetic last?

Results from treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic can last for up to 4 months. If you discontinue treatment, the frown lines between your brows gradually will look like they did before treatment.

Is treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic painful?

Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Many people return directly to work or normal activity following BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment.

Who should not use BOTOX® Cosmetic?

BOTOX® Cosmetic should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Patients with neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.

Will I experience any side effects?

The most common side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Less frequently occurring (<3%) adverse reactions include pain in the face, erythema at the injection site, and muscle weakness. These events are thought to be associated with the injection and occurred within the first week.

Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?

Although the results are visible, a treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you "had work done." The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between your brows.

Is BOTOX® Cosmetic affordable?

When considering your facial aesthetic options, BOTOX® Cosmetic is quite affordable. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's 2003 survey, BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the least expensive facial aesthetic procedures in the United States. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to your expectations. Consult your doctor for further information.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a registered trademark of Allergan and JUVEDERM™  is a trademark owned by Corneal Industries SAS.

Restylane

What is Restylane?

Restylane is an injectable gel that should always be administered by a trained, medically qualified practitioner. Restylane enhances your natural looks by restoring your skin's volume, creating softness and revitalizing your appearance.

How does Restylane work?

Restylane is a crystal-clear gel produced bio technologically using stabilized, nonanimal hyaluronic acid and water. The hyaluronic acid is a tissue-friendly substance closely resembling the hyaluronic acid that occurs naturally in the body. By replenishing nature’s supply of hyaluronic acid, Restylane revitalizes and plumps up the skin, instantly diminishing the appearance of lines and giving a softer look.

What areas can be treated?

Restylane treatments can be used to smooth out facial lines, create fuller lips and shape facial contours, such as cheeks and chin. It is a subtle approach to enhancing looks naturally. The most common areas treated are: from the nose to the angle of the mouth (the nasolabial folds), lips (enhancement), cheeks and chin (shaping), back of the hands, décolletage, face (skin rejuvenation) and between the eyebrows (the glabellar lines).

How long does the Restylane treatment last?

One of the great advantages of Restylane is that the effects are long lasting but not permanent. You are always in control of your looks. Facial lines and facial shaping: follow-up treatment is usually needed after 6-12 months, Lip enhancement: follow-up treatment is normally needed in about 6 months; Skin rejuvenation and deep hydration: after the initial intense treatment of 3 treatment sessions every 2-3 weeks, follow-up sessions are normally recommended around every 6 months. Duration depends on many factors, such as skin type, lifestyle, age, the degree of perfection demanded by the patient and the injection technique of the practitioner.

Are there any risks with Restylane?

More than 10 million treatments have been carried out since the launch of Restylane in 1996. Some common injection-related reactions might occur after a Restylane injection; they typically resolve spontaneously within one or two days after injection. These reactions include redness, swelling, pain, itching, bruising or tenderness at the injection site. Inflammatory reactions may last for up to two weeks in rare cases. After a lip enhancement, your lips may be swollen for several days.

Are there any side effects?

Most people can benefit from Restylane treatment.

Restylane should not be used in or near skin sites where there are or have been active skin disease, inflammation or related conditions. Nor should it be injected into an area where a permanent implant has been placed. Restylane has not been tested in pregnant or breast-feeding women.

During your pretreatment consultation, you should thoroughly discuss your medical history with your practitioner.