Pretty Little Lies Aesthetics

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines. Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow‘s feet Skin bands on the neck According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been "extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies." BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.

JUVÉDERM® XC injectable gel is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved dermal filler that, according to its manufacturer, Allergan, Inc., is designed to "temporarily treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds such as nasolabial folds" in people older than 21. Unlike the original JUVÉDERM injectable gel, JUVÉDERM XC is infused with lidocaine to make its injection more comfortable. JUVÉDERM XC is a smooth-consistency gel that restores volume to the skin, and smooths away moderate-to-severe facial wrinkles and folds. It is made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a sugar that occurs naturally in the body. In terms of the skin, HA‘s role is to deliver nutrients and hydration, and act as a cushioning agent. Young, healthy skin contains a lot of HA, but factors that include aging and sun exposure reduce the amount, causing skin to lose structure and volume. JUVÉDERM XC is most effective in improving the appearance of nasolabial folds, the lines that run from the bottom of the nose to the corner of the mouth on both sides of the face. JUVÉDERM XC Injectable Gel Procedure JUVÉDERM XC injections take about 15 minutes to administer in a doctor‘s office. A fine needle is used for the injection, which is given under the skin in the targeted area to add volume or fill in wrinkles and folds. Because JUVÉDERM XC contains lidocaine to improve comfort, an anesthetic may not be needed. However, a doctor may still elect to use a topical anesthetic on the area to be treated before giving the injection. Afterword, the doctor may gently massage the treated area(s). Once treatment is completed, patients can return, with virtually no downtime, to their regular activities. For the first 24 hours after treatment, to reduce the risk of complications, patients should avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sun or heat exposure, and alcohol consumption. Results of JUVÉDERM XC Injectable Gel The results of JUVÉDERM XC are visible immediately after injection; any swelling and bruising, to which ice can be applied, should subside during the next few days. Results can last 6 to 9 months, and, in some cases, up to year. However, according to its manufacturer, "Results from injectable dermal filler vary and correction is temporary. Supplemental ‘touch up‘ treatments may be required to achieve and maintain optimal correction of . . . wrinkles and folds." Risks of JUVÉDERM XC Injectable Gel Although JUVÉDERM XC is considered safe, there is a risk of side effects. They are usually limited to the injection site, and include the following: Redness Pain or tenderness Firmness Swelling Lumps or bumps Bruising Itching Discoloration Infection For customized treatment, Allergan, Inc., offers two types of JUVÉDERM XC: JUVÉDERM Ultra XC, which is suitable for superficial facial lines and folds, and JUVÉDERM Ultra Plus XC, a stronger formulation that is used for deeper facial folds and lines. JUVÉDERM XC is the first HA filler that is FDA-approved for use on people of color.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved Restylane® injectable gel is a cosmetic "filler" that contains hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural substance that is found in the body. HA gives volume and elasticity to the skin, but as the body ages, HA levels decrease, resulting in loose skin and wrinkling. When injected, Restylane gel is designed to plump the skin beneath lines and wrinkles, smoothing them out and making them less noticeable. The most common areas for Restylane treatment are the glabellar lines (which run between the eyebrows) and the nasolabial folds (which run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth). Restylane injectable gel is also FDA-approved, for those 21 and older, for enhancing the lips. According to manufacturer Medicis, results can last for up to 6 months, at which point the hyaluronic acid is reabsorbed by the body. Benefits of Restylane Injectable Gel When injected, Restylane gel plumps up glabellar lines and nasolabial folds, making skin appear younger and look smoother. When used for lip enhancement, it makes the lips fuller and gives them more definition. Advantages of Restylane Injectable Gel One significant advantage that Restylane injectable gel has over other facial fillers made with hyaluronic acid is that it contains nothing of animal origin. As a result, it does not require a potential user to undergo allergy testing, which can sometimes take weeks. Another advantage is that Restylane injections are performed in-office, usually by a dermatologist, in less than half an hour, and require little-to-no downtime for the patient. Side Effects of Restylane Injectable Gel The most common side effects of Restylane injectable gel are swelling, redness, pain, bruising and tenderness in and around the injection sites. They typically go away within a week. Although considered safe for most patients, Restylane injections carry a risk of infection, bleeding or allergic reaction.

For many years, the medical community has been acutely aware of the body’s natural regenerative qualities. Physicians across all fields, including orthopedics, dentistry, and sports medicine, have implemented protocols that work synergistically with the body. The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is common for promoting joint recovery and managing degenerative disease. It was only a matter of time before science discovered the value that PRP held for the body’s largest organ: the skin. We are pleased to offer PRP treatments to help our patients address their cosmetic concerns. What is PRP? PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is an organic substance that has long been advocated for its ability to facilitate tissue regeneration and wound healing. The substance exists in every person’s blood, which makes it safe and convenient. PRP is obtained through a simple blood draw and centrifuge (spinning) process. Centrifugation of the blood separates nutrient-rich platelets from red blood cells and other product. Platelets are valuable because they contain a large number of growth factors. These include epithelial and vascular epithelial growth factors as well as fibroblast and connective tissue growth factors. Each type of growth promotes vital processes such as inflammatory response, blood vessel regeneration, tissue remodeling, and cell proliferation. What are the benefits of platelet-rich plasma injections? The growth factors contained in platelet-rich plasma are involved in almost every regenerative process in the body. When PRP is injected just beneath the skin, it stimulates collagen proliferation through which a number of benefits occur. PRP injections add volume to areas of the face that have begun to droop or atrophy. The cheeks can be rounded out and under eye hollows that cause dark circles and bags can be softened. Due to ongoing collagen remodeling, PRP injections also promote softer, smoother, tighter skin over time. Injections of platelet-rich plasma are also beneficial because they are safe for all skin types and tones. The organic nature of treatment, using your own blood product, significantly reduces the potential for side effects such as allergic response. How does PRP work for aesthetic rejuvenation? Platelet-rich plasma is used in two ways to improve the appearance and overall vitality of the skin. The product may be injected beneath wrinkles, hollows, and areas of deflation and it may also be applied topically in a gentle microneedling procedure. The way that PRP improves texture, volume, and radiance is by inducing numerous regenerative processes. The various growth factors that exist within blood plasma provide essential proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and other nutrients to the skin. Proteins are integral to the formation of fibrin polymer which lays a strong foundation for firm, youthful tissue. Platelets within the plasma naturally respond to injuries in the body, prompting accelerated tissue regeneration through vascular and cellular regrowth. How long do PRP injections take? PRP treatment with injections takes only slightly longer than an average injectable treatment. We begin with a standard blood draw. If desired, a topical numbing cream can be applied to the treatment area while blood is processed in the centrifuge. This takes just a few minutes. The provider carefully observes the face and may mark areas where injections are recommended. The entire process is typically complete within 15 to 20 minutes. Microneedling with PRP is also brief, taking approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. What happens after the PRP Procedure? Patients can resume normal activity immediately following their PRP procedure. Slight redness and swelling should be expected. Some patients notice minor bruising. These side effects typically disappear within the first day after treatment. How long will it take to see results? Patients who undergo microneedling with PRP may notice an immediate boost in the radiance and softness of their skin. PRP injections work beneath the surface to restructure the collagen matrix in superficial tissue, so results from injections alone become more noticeable after a few weeks. As healing mechanisms increase, patients notice improvements such as: Smoother texture due to improved collagen formation. More radiance due to new blood vessel formation. Fresher, younger-looking skin due to the influx of vital nutrients. What are the advantages of PRP vs. other injectables? Studies have indicated that patients treated with platelet-rich plasma facials and facelifts find that their results continue to improve over time. Several months after treatment, the effects of cellular regeneration may be even more noticeable than they are right after microneedling or injections. This is because plasma stimulates cellular activity in which collagen and elastin are remodeled.

Acne is a common condition that causes blocked pores, pimples, cysts and other lesions on the skin. While it is most common in teenagers, acne can affect people of all ages, most often appearing on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. For many patients, once acne lesions clear up or are removed, they leave behind discolorations and indentations on the skin. In many cases, acne can lead to scarring, especially if it is severe. Scars may form after acne has healed and cleared, and may vary from person to person. Some people may have small flat scars that are not very noticeable and others may suffer from more visible and indented scars on the face or affected area. Acne scarring is most often caused by larger acne lesions, such as cysts or nodules, which can swell and rupture, causing a break in the wall of the individual pore. Infected material from the inflamed lesion can spill out through this break and can affect the nearby healthy tissue, leading to the appearance of a scar. Although not harmful, most people are bothered by the unattractive appearance of these scars and seek treatment to remove or significantly reduce their appearance. Types of Acne Scars Acne scars can vary in appearance and texture depending on the type and severity of the original acne lesions. Each type of acne scar may require a different type of treatment in order to repair the damaged areas of the skin and produce a smooth, clear appearance. Atrophic Scars Atrophic scars develop when there is a loss of tissue. Common types of atrophic scars include ice pick scars and boxcar scars. Ice pick scars are narrow indentations that form deep within the layers of the skin, creating an appearance that the skin has been punctured with an icepick. Boxcar scars are round depressions in the skin similar to chickenpox scars, which may be superficial or deep, depending on the severity of the pimple. Hypertrophic Scars Hypertrophic scars are caused when the body produces too much collagen as acne wounds heal, resulting in excessive amounts of raised tissue on the skin‘s surface. Also known as a rolling scars, hypertrophic scars create a wave-like appearance in the skin as a result of bands of tissue that develop deep within the skin and pull the epidermis down in certain spots. Acne Scar Treatment Treatment for acne scars depends on the type and severity of scarring, as well as each patient‘s individual skin and amount of correction desired. Treatment options may include: Tissue fillers to fill in depressed scars for a smoother appearance Dermabrasion to remove surface scars or lessen the appearance of deeper scars Laser treatments to burn away the skin‘s surface layer and produce new skin cells Punch excision surgery to remove indented scars which may include a skin graft For many patients, a combination of treatments may be most effective in improving the appearance of acne scars. Treating acne scars is often a complex process that sometimes involves several different treatments. Preventing Acne Scars The most effective way to prevent acne scars from developing is to stop the lesions that lead to scarring from forming. It is also important for patients to avoid picking or popping active lesions, as this can lead to infection and increase the risk of scarring. Picking at scabs should also be avoided to allow natural healing to occur without interruption. Sun exposure can lead to further damage of the skin and may delay healing of scars and lesions, and should be avoided as much as possible to maintain the health of the skin. Some patients are naturally prone to developing scars from acne and will not be able to prevent these scars from occurring. Fortunately, there are many treatments available to reduce the appearance of acne scars and revitalize the skin.

Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Ranging from mild to strong, there are three types of chemical peels: alphahydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to skin. Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon‘s or dermatologist‘s office, or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging. Chemical Peel Procedure During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape may be put on the skin following a phenol peel. During an AHA peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution applied; there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering. Side Effects of Chemical Peels A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts, depending on the strength of the peel used, about a week. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness and irritation, as well as flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun.

LATISSE® eyelash enhancer is the first and only U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved cosmetic treatment for increasing the length, thickness and darkness of eyelashes. Available only through prescription, it is applied once a day to the base of the upper eyelashes. Results may be apparent within four weeks; full results take sixteen weeks. Exactly why LATISSE liquid solution causes eyelashes to grow is unknown. However, its active ingredient, bimatoprost, seems to increase the number of hairs in, and the duration of, a hair follicle‘s growth period. The result is longer and fuller lashes. Once LATISSE treatment is discontinued, its benefits gradually end. Application of LATISSE Solution LATISSE solution is applied at night. Contact lenses and makeup are removed, and skincare products applied, before using the LATISSE solution. To prevent contamination, the LATISSE solution is applied with a single-use disposable applicator. The applicator, which is coated with one drop of solution, is applied to the base of the upper eyelid, at the lash line. The applicator is moved from the inside of the lash line to the outside. Excess solution is blotted to prevent its spreading to other areas. A separate applicator is used for each eye. Contact lenses can be put back in 15 minutes after LATISSE treatment. Candidates for LATISSE Treatment Anyone who wants longer, fuller and darker eyelashes may be a candidate for LATISSE treatment. Those who have eye infections, or broken or irritated skin on their eyelids, or who use products for elevated intraocular pressure, should not undergo LATISSE treatment. A doctor-performed full medical history is taken prior to the start of LATISSE treatment. Side Effects of LATISSE Treatment The common side effects of LATISSE treatment end when treatment ends. Side effects include the following: Eye itchiness Eye redness Skin-darkening Eyelid redness Eye irritation Eye dryness There is one potential serious side effect of treatment. According to the manufacturer‘s website, LATISSE treatment "may cause increased brown iris pigmentation of the colored part of the eye which is likely to be permanent," although its occurrence is "very infrequent."

Statistics suggest that hair loss affects millions of men and women in our country. If you are one of them, chances are you are looking for a solution that will meet your needs. We are proud to offer an emergent treatment that has quickly developed a proven track record of success: PRP therapy. What is PRP? PRP is platelet-rich plasma, a product that is present in the blood. Platelet-rich plasma is a nutrient-dense fluid that stimulates cellular regeneration within microenvironments like the hair follicles, joints, and also the skin. Platelets are robust cells that contain numerous growth factors, each of which is involved in certain cellular processes. Platelet-rich plasma has a long history of medicinal use related to tissue healing and regeneration. It is no surprise that this therapy has made its way into the field of hair restoration. How does PRP work for hair restoration? The primary purpose of PRP treatment for hair loss is to stimulate activity in the hair follicles. This may prompt an active phase of hair growth in follicles that have become inactive. PRP injections into the scalp may also support the active phase of newly implanted hair follicles. This occurs through the action of various growth factors. Platelets contain: Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), which is involved in fibrin formation, blood vessel growth, and cell regeneration. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), involved in the formation of new blood vessels. Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 (FGF-2) is also involved in blood vessel formation, as well as the generation of specialized cells that heal and rejuvenate. Transforming Growth-Factor-Beta (TGF-b) is involved in bone metabolism in the body as well as matrix formation between cells. Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) stimulates collagen proliferation and cell growth as well as blood vessel formation. Insulin-Like Growth Factor - (IGF) provides necessary physiological regulation in nearly every cell. Behind the scenes, PRP facilitates very sophisticated responses. On the surface, PRP can provide the results you’ve been seeking. PRP Hair Restoration Treatment There are two ways in which PRP may be introduced into the hair follicles of the scalp. One technique is to perform microneedling, which creates micro wounds to superficial tissue. PRP is then applied topically where it can penetrate the scalp through the induced injuries. Within a few minutes, the microchannels begin to heal, but not before stimulating nutrients can be absorbed. An additional and popular technique for PRP hair restoration is to inject platelet-rich plasma into the scalp in the area where hair is thinning. Treatment is conducted with a topical anesthetic which numbs the superficial tissue on the head. After drawing blood, we process the vial in a centrifuge, a piece of equipment that spins the blood to separate platelets from red blood cells. Injections are then administered to the appropriate area of the scalp. The introduction of platelet-rich plasma into the area of inactive hair follicles stimulates a regenerative process intended to activate dormant growth cycles. Most patients need a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. How long do PRP injections take for hair restoration? Injection treatment begins with a brief blood draw that takes less than a minute. The second step of centrifugation takes a few minutes, during which topical numbing medication sits on the scalp. The injection aspect of treatment is meticulous – injections are positioned every half-inch across the area of thinning. As precise as this step is, it usually takes less than thirty minutes from start to finish. What happens after the PRP procedure? In most cases, there is zero downtime after PRP hair treatment. Because injections stimulate an inflammatory cascade through which tissue is repaired, patients are advised NOT to take any kind of anti-inflammatory medication to manage comfort. Our staff will discuss appropriate medications or strategies to minimize the discomfort that may occur after injections. How long will it take to see results? Consistency is crucial to obtain satisfactory results from PRP hair restoration. Treatments are typically scheduled monthly for a few months. Patients can expect to begin noticing improvement within two to three months. After the initial series of treatments, injections are repeated every three to six months depending on individual response and results. The initial effect that patients may notice after treatment is that they shed fewer hairs. Over time, they can expect to see an increase in thickness and length. What are the advantages of this procedure? Platelet-rich plasma is a promising hair restoration product for several reasons. First, PRP is completely organic; it is harvested from the blood. Treatment is safe and convenient, and it works.

Long term and repeated exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet light, can cause a variety of cosmetic and medical problems related to the skin, commonly referred to as sun damage. Sun damage can affect any area of the skin as a result of excessive exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Sun damage most commonly occurs on the face, hands and arms, and may lead to sun spots, age spots, rough skin and wrinkles. Years of sun exposure can also lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Some individuals may notice skin lesions that are a form of actinic keratosis, which is is a precancerous skin condition that develops from years of sun exposure. The best treatment against sun damage is preventing it from occurring in the first place. It is important to wear sunscreen on a daily basis and avoid excessive exposure to the sun, especially during mid-day hours when the sun is strongest. Additional ways to prevent sun damage include: Always wear sun screen with an SPF of at least 15 Wear a hat in the sun Wear long sleeves and long pants Avoid tanning beds and salons Once sun damage has occurred, there are options available to cosmetically improve damage that has already been suffered. Injectable fillers such as collagen help to fill out lines and wrinkles to give the skin a fuller, smoother look and feel. Phototherapy can reduce the appearance of uneven pigmentation and laser treatments may also be effective for these conditions. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion soften and rejuvenate the skin by removing old and dead layers of skin cells. This helps to promote new growth and enhanced texture of the skin. resulting in a noticeable renewal of the skin. Individuals that notice any suspicious growths or skin patches should immediately consult with a doctor, as early detection is extremely important in treating any forms of skin cancer that may have developed as a result of sun damage.