FAQ

While lasers are used to treat the skin and keep it looking smooth and young, it cannot always be recommended. For example, you cannot undergo the procedure if you have taken certain acne medications in the prior year. These medicines include brands, such as Amnesteen, Myorisan, and Claravis, which represent the medication isotretinoin.

Laser therapy may also not be advised for anyone who has a tendency toward scarring, has previously received radiation therapy to the face, is prone to cold sores, has a darker skin tone, or who is pregnant or breastfeeding.

Yes, most of these procedures include topical numbing.

To prepare for laser treatment, a doctor will ask about your medical history, including the medications you have taken and are currently taking. He or she will also examine the skin that will be treated. The tone and thickness of the epidermis will be evaluated to determine the possible results. Also, you will also discuss your expectations with the doctor, and go over the potential risks.

Before you begin laser treatments, you may be asked to take an anti-viral medicine if you have problems with herpes infections around the mouth. You will also be asked to avoid overexposure to the sun and to wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. If you smoke, you will be instructed to stop at least two weeks before the procedure and refrain from the habit one week after the treatment. Arranging a ride home, after the procedure, should be done as well.

The injection process takes 10 minutes. Being injected with the neuromodulators feels like a slight pinch. To ease any discomfort, the practitioner can apply ice to numb the skin momentarily.

Visible results will be noted 7-10 days after you receive the treatment. The treatment lasts about 3-4 months for frown lines considered moderate to severe.

Anyone between age 25-70 years or age who is not pregnant and that does not have certain conditions of the neuromuscular unit such as Eaton Lambert or myasthenia gravis.

Hyaluronic acid or HA is a complex sugar that occurs naturally in the skin. The substance keeps the skin hydrated and plumped, and, when used in fillers, is gel-like and soft. Most HA filler products are infused with lidocaine to minimize any discomfort during and after treatment. HA fillers last about 6 to 12 months, on average.

Calcium hydroxylapatite is a naturally occurring substance that occurs in the bone. When it is used as a filler, the substance’s calcium particles are suspended in a smooth gel. Usually, this filler is thicker than HA fillers, and lasts longer too – about 1 year. CaHA fillers stimulate the natural production of collagen and are normally used for deeper wrinkles and lines. A brand example of an FDA-approved CaHA filler is Radiesse®. Multiple sessions are recommended to achieve the best result.

Poly-L-lactic acid can be used inside and outside the body. Therefore, the biodegradable synthetic substance is biocompatible. Also used in the making of dissolvable stitches, poly-L-lactic acid is considered a collagen stimulator and helps rebuild collagen. Sculptra is used as a volumizer of deeper wrinkles and the results last a long time – as long as 2 years. Multiple sessions are recommended to achieve the best result.

Polymethylmethacrylate or PMMA is a biocompatible synthetic filler. It has been used in medicine for around 100 years. When used in a dermal filler, PMMA is made into a collagen-infused tiny ball, or microsphere. It stays beneath the skin to provide structure and support. An example of an FDA-approved PMMA brand is Bellafill®. Given that this product contains bovine collagen, an allergy skin test is recommended prior to its use.