Aesthetics by Audrey

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.

Prescription Dysport® injectable is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for temporarily lessening or eliminating moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Like BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport injectable is placed directly into the muscle underneath a furrow, weakening the muscle to the point where it cannot contract. Dysport, also known as Reloxin, is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX Cosmetic. Applications for Dysport Injectable Medically, Dysport injectable is used to treat excessive underarm sweating; symptoms of cervical dystonia, which include neck pain and abnormal head position; and muscle spasms. Cosmetically, Dysport injections are used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow's feet Skin bands on the neck Dysport Injectable Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, Dysport injectable is placed directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. No anesthetic is required, 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 4 months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Candidates for Dysport Injectable According to the manufacturer's website, candidates for Dysport injectable are "adults less than 65 years of age" who want "temporary improvement in the look of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines)." It may not be suitable for those with the following: Allergies to Dysport injectable or its ingredients An allergy to cow's milk protein Surgical facial changes Very weak muscles in the treatment area A face that looks very different on each side Inflammation or infection in the area to be injected Droopy eyelids or sagging eyelid folds Deep facial scars Thick, oily skin Wrinkles that cannot be smoothed when spread apart Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has a neuromuscular disease, should not receive Dysport injectable. Differences Between Dysport Injectable and BOTOX Cosmetic Although made from the same bacterium, there is anecdotal evidence that Dysport injectable may last longer, spread farther and take effect more quickly than BOTOX Cosmetic. Side Effects of Dysport Injectable Side effects of Dysport injectable are usually mild and temporary, and normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections. Injection-site side effects include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Eyelids can droop when Dysport injections are made in the glabellar region; they usually return to normal within 3 weeks. Side effects of Dysport injectable are the same as those of BOTOX Cosmetic.

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.

Sculptra® Aesthetic injectable is used to reverse the signs of facial fat loss that occur with aging. By restoring collagen, which decreases as the body ages, it fills out shallow-to-deep wrinkles and folds that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds). It is not appropriate for use in the eye and lip areas. Sculptra Aesthetic's main component is an alpha hydroxy acid called poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which is a safe and long-lasting synthetic (artificially created), biocompatible (can be used harmlessly in the body), biodegradable (able to be broken down by the body) substance. PLLA has been used for more than 20 years in many surgical products, including dissolvable sutures and soft-tissue implants. Benefits of Sculptra Aesthetic Facial Injectable U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved for the treatment of nasolabial folds, Sculptra Aesthetic is considered safe and effective for most patients. Because it works gradually, patients achieve a more youthful, natural-looking appearance with subtle, yet noticeable, results. Although not FDA-approved to treat them, according to manufacturer Valeant Aesthetics, Sculptra Aesthetic can be used on marionette lines (at the corners of the mouth) and chin wrinkles. Because it contains no animal, human or bacterial components, allergy testing is not necessary prior to treatment. There is little-to-no downtime after receiving Sculptra injections; most patients return to their normal activities immediately. Treatment and Results of Sculptra Aesthetic Facial Injectable Sculptra Aesthetic injections are designed to be a one-time treatment. A patient can have up to 4 injection sessions, which are spread 3 weeks apart. When injected into shallow-to-deep folds and lines, the additional collagen that is produced smooths them out, and adds volume to the skin. Results of Sculptra injections vary but, in a clinical study, their effects were shown to last for up to 2 years in most patients. Side Effects of Sculptra Aesthetic Facial Injectable Possible side effects of Sculptra injections include localized bleeding, tenderness, discomfort, redness, bruising and swelling. Side effects usually fade within a few days, although can last longer. According to Valeant Aesthetics, "Other side effects may include small lumps under the skin that are sometimes noticeable when pressing on the treated area. Larger lumps, some with delayed onset with or without inflammation or skin discoloration, have also been reported."

Microneedling creates microscopic openings in the surface of the skin. It causes the tissue to develop new collagen and elastin, resulting in smoother, firmer skin. The treatment is completely non-surgical and requires little downtime. What is Microneedling? Microneedling is a rejuvenating skin treatment that addresses: Wrinkles and fine lines Hyperpigmentation Sun damage Mild inelasticity Acne scars Large pores Rough skin Dull skin You may hear microneedling referred to as percutaneous collagen induction, because the treatment increases collagen in your skin. Collagen is the supportive scaffolding of youthful, smooth skin. It naturally declines with age. By inducing the creation of collagen (as well as elastin), microneedling leads to smoother, plumper, firmer skin. The Microneedling Process Modern treatments use an automated pen-like device. It’s handheld. The head of the device contains a circular arrangement of tiny needles. The device is set to penetrate the skin at a certain depth, making the treatment highly customizable. As the provider passes the head of rotating needles across the skin, the needles make tiny openings in the epidermis. These minuscule punctures prompt a healing response in the skin without damaging tissue. Opening the skin’s pores for nourishing topicals: Another benefit of microneedling is that the skin is essentially opened up via the tiny channels made, and can thereby better absorb any variety of rejuvenating topical ointments, creams and other skin products chosen by you and the provider. How Long Does it Take to Heal from Microneedling? Microneedling is minimally invasive, but your face will be flushed and red for about 24-72 hours after the appointment. During this time, don’t apply facial cosmetics. We know it is tempting to conceal the redness, but microneedling opens up the pores of your face, so the last thing you want to do is clog all those channels into the epidermis with makeup. For 24-48 hours, it is normal to experience peeling, dryness, swelling and bumps. Follow our directions for which moisturizers and cleansers to use during this time. Your skin will start looking radiant and fresh after a few days, and results will continue to improve over the next couple of months as new collagen and elastin forms.

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 fibrin (PRF) is common for promoting joint recovery and managing degenerative disease. It was only a matter of time before science discovered the value that PRF held for the body’s largest organ: the skin. We are pleased to offer PRF treatments to help our patients address their cosmetic concerns. What is PRF? PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin, 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. PRF 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 fibrin injections? The growth factors contained in platelet-rich fibrin are involved in almost every regenerative process in the body. When PRF is injected just beneath the skin, it stimulates collagen proliferation through which a number of benefits occur. PRF 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, PRF injections also promote softer, smoother, tighter skin over time. Injections of platelet-rich fibrin 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 PRF work for aesthetic rejuvenation? Platelet-rich fibrin 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 PRF 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 PRF injections take? PRF 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 PRF is also brief, taking approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. What happens after the PRF Procedure? Patients can resume normal activity immediately following their PRF 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 PRF may notice an immediate boost in the radiance and softness of their skin. PRF 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 PRF vs. other injectables? Studies have indicated that patients treated with platelet-rich fibrin 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.

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 may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons. 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.

If you’ve ever tried to lose a significant amount of weight, you know it’s never quite as simple as the antiquated “calories in, calories out” advice. In reality, your energy level, appetite, stressors, hormones, metabolism, and other factors influence how easy or difficult it is to lose excess body fat. When diet and exercise alone aren’t enough, semaglutide injections overseen by a medical professional could help you achieve a healthy weight. What Is Semaglutide? Sold under the brand names Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, semaglutide is a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes and long-term weight management. Available in injectable and tablet form, this drug works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) which the body naturally produces to regulate hunger and blood sugar levels. Semaglutide helps your body produce more insulin when your blood sugar levels are too high. It also works in the GI tract by slowing gastric motility, which means food stays in your stomach longer and prolongs the feeling of fullness. For that reason, it can be a great weight loss aid. Can I Take Semaglutide if I Am Not Diabetic? Semaglutide was developed as an antidiabetic medication, but you don’t need to have type 2 diabetes to experience the benefits. A randomized controlled trial from 2021 found semaglutide was an effective weight loss drug for overweight and obese non-diabetic adults. It may also lower your risk of obesity-related conditions like heart attack and stroke. How Do I Use Semaglutide for Weight Loss? Semaglutide can be administered subcutaneously or orally. The dose will vary depending on the brand and the individual. Typically, adults taking Wegovy for chronic weight management inject 2.4 mg once weekly. However, adjustments can be made as needed under medical guidance. What Should I Do if I Forget a Dose of Semaglutide? While the following recommendations may be helpful, you should ask your provider for specific instructions. If you miss an Ozempic injection, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, you should skip the dose if it’s been more than five days since you missed the injection. If you’re using Wegovy, you can take the missed dose as soon as possible as long as your next dose is more than two days away. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You shouldn’t double your injections to make up for a missed one. Missing a dose of Rybelsus works differently. Rather than taking the missed dose as soon as possible, you should skip it and take the next tablet when you usually would. If you’re consistently missing oral doses of semaglutide, it could help to switch to an injectable form. What Side Effects Can This Medication Cause? Semaglutide is a safe and effective medication for many people struggling with weight loss or type 2 diabetes management. However, potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, or burping. In rare cases, semaglutide can cause serious side effects, some of which may require medical attention. That said, adverse reactions are usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset. Contact Us About Semaglutide If you’re interested in semaglutide to help with weight loss, contact our office. Our provider can determine if it’s a good match for you.