Laser and Skin Care Center of Gainesville, Florida >> Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HAIR REMOVAL

What types of lasers are used?
The Apogee Elite and Coolglide Excel are the latest in laser technology. Showing fewer treatments with minimal discomfort, the lasers used are FDA approved for all skin and hair types.

How do I know it is safe?
Suzy Forbes has been a Licensed Electrologist for 12 years, is a Certified Clinical Electrologist, Certified Medical Electrologist, and Licensed Esthetician and has been performing laser hair removal treatments for 7 years. We are a medically supervised facility.

Can dark and tanned skin be treated?
The lasers used here will work safely on any skin color, even tanned skin.

Does laser hair removal work on blonde, gray, or red hair?
Hair color is the most important factor; there must be some pigment in the follicle. Brown to black hair is treated most effectively, but laser will not work on blonde, red or gray hair.

What can blonde, red or gray haired people do for permanent hair removal?
As of now the only solution is Electrolysis where each hair is removed individually, making Electrolysis a slower process. Electrolysis is most ideal for shaping eyebrows where Suzy is an expert in this field.

How long does each session take?
Small areas can be treated in as little as 15 minutes, while larger areas can take up to an hour or longer.

How many treatments will it take to remove the hair?
The number of treatments depends on the area and the hair growths cycle. There are 3 phases of hair growth - Anagen (active), Catagen (regression), and Telogen (resting). Laser technology can only treat hair in the anagen cycle. Age, hormones, ethnicity, weight and medication can increase hair growth. Although each person is different, you can expect 4-8 treatments every 4-8 weeks, depending on the area.

Will the treatments hurt?
The Apogee Elite and Coolglide Excel offer superior cooling devices over the other laser hair removal systems. Topical numbing creams are usually not needed, but are available. Most people just feel a cool sensation on their skin.

Is Laser Hair reduction permanent?
The FDA requires the words “Permanent Hair Reduction" to be used rather than “Permanent Hair Removal” . The results are going to be permanent enough if you follow the treatment protocol. However, individual treatment results may vary depending on hair type, stress levels, certain medications and different hormone levels. Laser only destroys hair in its active growth phase, the anagen phase. During this phase at least 85% of the hair is permanently removed. It is possible to experience minimal re-growth in an area previously treated by normally dormant hair, at which time you may want to do an occasional touchup.

How much does it cost?
Our prices are competitive and we have the latest state of the art technology; we will beat any competitors’ prices. The total cost for permanent hair removal may be less than the continuing cost of temporary methods of hair removal.

How do I prepare for my treatment?
The patient should not wax or tweeze 4 weeks prior to treatment. Shaving or trimming the area with scissors is fine, the area must be shaved one or two days before treatment.

What can I expect after the treatment?
The patient should shave the area treated 3-4 days after treatment. The hairs will look like they are still growing, but over the next 2 weeks they are trying to work their way out of the skin. In 4-8 weeks the next cycle of hair will grow in and the patient should return for another session.

What Is Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the science of permanent hair removal by utilizing solid probe devices and small amounts of electrical energy, which destroys the hair growth tissue eliminating the ability of the hair to regenerate.

How many treatments are required?
In order to achieve optimum results in the shortest time frame, it is very important to adhere to the recommended treatment schedule. Provided the patient adheres to the schedule, improvement should be seen within several months after the initial treatment. Completion times vary with each individual depending on the coarseness of the hair, the number of hairs to be removed and if temporary methods were previously used. Other factors that influence the treatment program length for each individual are hair growth cycles, heredity, hormone function, normal physiologic changes and stress.

Are all hairs eliminated with one treatment or is regrowth to be expected?
Coarse, deep hairs cannot always be eliminated with one treatment. Therefore, breaking down the hair germ cells could require additional treatments.

Is electrolysis uncomfortable?
Each hair follicle is surrounded by its own group of nerve endings, therefore, it is impossible to destroy hair growth tissue without sensation. Although some parts of the body are more sensitive than others, adjustments can be made to help make the treatment more comfortable for the client.

Does electrolysis have any side effects on the skin?
There may be a slight redness and/or swelling immediately after treatment which usually disappears within a few hours. When electrolysis is administered by a qualified electrologist, using state-of-the-art technology and techniques, the results are most satisfactory.

Can unwanted hair be removed from anywhere on the body?
Unwanted hair can be safely removed from almost all body areas. The most common areas include the hairline, eyebrows, ears, bridge of nose, upper and lower lip, cheeks, sideburns, chin, neck, shoulders, underarms, arms, breasts, abdomen, bikini line, legs, back and chest.

What are the benefits of waxing?

• Long lasting. Hair in areas waxed will not grow back from three to eight weeks. When hair does grow back, it is soft and not coarse like shaved hair.
• When the hair is shaved or removed by depilatory cream, the hair is removed at the surface. Within a few days, the hair can be seen at the surface and the stubble can be felt.

Are there any drawbacks?

• Pain. The removal of the strip is painful and sharp, though it is short-lasting.
  Expense. Waxing is usually performed by a licensed cosmetologist and can be expensive. Home waxing supplies are available but are difficult to use on self for some areas of the body.
• Hair removal is not permanent.
• As the waxed strip is removed against the direction of hair growth, hair follicles may be disturbed so that hairs start to grow in different directions. This may make hair growth more noticeable and make other methods of hair removal (such as electrolysis) more difficult.

Who is not a good candidate for waxing?

• Some physicians do not recommend waxing for persons suffering from diabetes or who have varicose veins or poor circulation as they are more susceptible to infection.
• Users of Retin-A, Renova, Differin or Isotretinoin are advised not to have waxing performed as these medications tend to weaken the skin and tearing of the skin may occur when the wax is removed.
• Waxing should not be done on areas of skin affected by warts, pimples, moles or rashes or on skin that is irritated, chapped or suffering from sunburn. Never apply wax to peeling, broken skin or varicose veins.

LASER FACIALS

What types of lasers are used?
The Apogee Elite and Coolglide Excel are the latest in laser technology. Showing fewer treatments with minimal discomfort, the lasers used are FDA approved for all skin types.

How do I know if I have photodamaged skin?
If you are over 30 years old and enjoy an active lifestyle your skin is probably showing signs of damage.

How does laser treatment reduce the signs of photodamage?
Lasers work by focusing a beam of light to a target in the skin such as enlarged blood vessels and irregular pigmentation. The enlarged vessels and irregularities are removed without scarring or damage to the treated or surrounding area and the underlying collagen is stimulated.

Do lasers work on all skin types?
Today's advanced lasers are capable of treating a wide variety of skin types.

Which other conditions are treatable by lasers?
Elimination of red and brown blemishes, reduction of minor wrinkles, and a general tightening of your skin's collagen.

How many treatments are required?
Typically several treatments are required for full face treatment. The average treatment takes about 20 minutes. Results may become apparent after the first few treatments.

What will I look like after laser facial skin treatment?
Results will vary; your skin may appear reddened. You can expect to return to your normal activities immediately with minimal precautions such as sunscreen.

 

MICRODERMABRASION

What exactly is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a new technology using crystals under pressure to remove dead or damaged layers of skin. The crystals and skin debris are then vacuumed away, resulting in a smoother, less wrinkled skin. Microdermabrasion buffs the skin of fine lines and discoloration while refining texture and hue. Repeated treatments yield excellent results for scar revision (whether from acne, chicken pox, or even surgery scars) as well as deep discoloration, melasma, and tattoo removal. Furthermore, this process of exfoliation stimulates the production of collagen and elastin which will result in a firmer, more youthful looking skin over time.

What results can I expect, and how soon?
Depending on the area treated, you will notice an improvement in your skin's appearance. Acne scars will be less obvious. Age spots and fine lines are greatly diminished and many patients report that their skin seems to be softer, smoother, and younger-looking. After your first treatment, your skin will have a fresh pink glow. Improvement continues throughout your treatment program. you will begin to notice visible results after about the third treatment.

Are Microdermabrasion treatments safe?
Unlike chemical peals and laser resurfacing (which are not recommended for dark skin types), Microdermabrasion treatments are perfectly safe for all skin types and all skin colors.

Is more than one treatment necessary?
One treatment will improve your skin's smoothness; however, a series of treatments will maximize the effect.

How often can I get a Microdermabrasion treatment?
Every 7 to 10 days for up to 12-15 treatments. Monthly treatments are recommended to maintain best results.

Can Microdermabrasion be used on other parts of the body besides the face?
Absolutely. Microdermabrasion is effective on all body areas. It is superb not only on the face but also on the hands (even the knuckles), chest, neck, knees, elbows, etc.

Can Micordermabrasion be combined with chemical peels?
Yes. This is commonly done, and the two procedures together have a complimentary effect.

Is Microdermabrasion helpful in acne and oily skin patients?
Microdermabrasion will reduce oiliness and reduce the appearance of large pores. This technique will clean out clogged pores and open comedones. It is not recommended that Microdermabrasion be used concomitantly with Renova or Retin A, due to skin sensitivity.

Is Microdermabrasion helpful in reducing sun-damage and hyperpigmentation such as “age spots" or freckles?
Yes. Sun-damaged skin will see gradual improvement in texture and lightening of superficial pigments.

Is Microdermabrasion painful?
No. There is no discomfort to the procedure.

What is the down time?
Unlike chemical peels, laser resurfacing, or plastic surgery, there is little or no down time. At most, patients will be pink (and must consequently wear sunscreens diligently) for a day or two after the treatment.

CHEMICAL PEELS

What is LHA?
LHA stands for Lipo-Hydroxy Acid which is a derivative of salicylic acid, but boasts a six times superior exfoliation mechanism than pure salicylic acid alone. LHA easily penetrates the outer layers of the skin to produce an exfoliation of each individual cell.

How do LHA peels benefit the skin?
The LHA chemical peels help increase skin radiance, even skin tone, diminish the appearance of fine lines, reduce sun and age spots, and improve acne and acne scaring.

How many peels do I need and how often?
The peels are strategically scheduled two and a half weeks apart and consist of a series of six peels for optimum results. Two weeks of at-home preparation with the La Roche-Posay LHA™ pre-peel kit is a mandatory part of this treatment. The La Roche-Posay post-peel kit is then used for the three days following each peel during which your skin is “recovering.”

Are the peels painful and is there a downtime?
During the in-office peel treatment, there is very slight discomfort, if any. However a burning sensation is usually present sometime during the first hour after the peel and lasts about 10-15 minutes. There is minimal downtime from these treatments. Redness may be visible for several days, but is minimal and can easily be covered with mineral makeup.

Will I see any difference after the first peel?
After one treatment there is a noticeable difference in skin radiance and tone. By the fourth treatment the appearance of fine lines is diminished, and after the sixth treatment, sun and age spots are visibly reduced by about 50 percent. Those with congested skin will also notice a significant decrease in congestion and a dramatic improvement in skin texture.

Can I have other procedures done while I am doing the peels?
Yes, the LHA™ Peel series can also be supplemented with various other facial treatments such as deep cleansing Enzyme treatments, laser-facials & microdermabrasion. These treatments, however, cannot be performed on the same day as the peel.

What is The MicroPeel® Plus?
This exceptional skin renewal treatment is a fifteen minute in-office procedure that will help smooth fine lines and even skin discoloration while simultaneously reducing the appearance of acne scars and environmental damage to the skin.

The MicroPeel® Plus procedure stimulates cell turnover through the application of salicylic acid in the form of microcrystals. These microcrystals target the exact areas on the skin that need improvement. The MicroPeel® Plus aggressively outperforms other superficial chemical peels by freeing the skin of all dead cells while doing no damage to the skin

How does The MicroPeel® Plus work?
The MicroPeel® works in two ways. First, it loosens the bond of dead cells on the surface of your skin. By loosening this bond, the MicroPeel® Plus is able to remove these dead cells from the skin1s surface revealing the new cells underneath. The result is immediate improvement in the smoothness and radiance of your skin that you can really see and feel. Secondly, when the dead cells are removed, The MicroPeel® Plus stimulates the new, living cells in your skin to reactivate the renewal process. Reactivation of the renewal process will lead to long-lasting skin health and vitality.

Who can be treated?
The MicroPeel®l Plus is suitable for patients of all skin types. The amount of improvement will, however, vary based on the current condition of your skin. Some patients may be at greater risk for adverse reactions and should consult their physician before having The MicroPeel® l Plus procedure. Those at greater risk include patients with active herpes simplex (cold sores) or any other viral infection, collagen disease or other autoimmune disorder, Accutane™ users, patients that received plastic surgery, a recent chemical peel, or recent radiation treatment.

Some minor conditions that may require special care instructions from your physician include: allergies, sun sensitivity, atopic skin reactions, seborrhic dermatitis and eczema. Patients who have allergies to salycilates should refrain from using this product. The MicroPeel® Plus has not been tested on pregnant or lactating mothers. Please consult your physician before having any treatment if you are pregnant or lactating.

What is the The MicroPeel® Plus Procedure?

• Skin cleaning to remove sebum and cellular debris.
• MicroPeel® Plus applied (30 seconds to one minute). Some stinging will occur one minute after application.
• Two to three minutes level of discomfort will peak and quickly disappear.
• A transparent white mask will appear as The MicroPeel® Plus evaporates.
• The MicroPeel® Plus mask will completely form, signalling the end of the procedure.
• Apply BioMedic Extra Rich Moisturizer to area treated
• For approximately one week after the procedure your skin will undergo The MicroPeel® Plus renewal process of losing dead outer layer skin.

What improvements can I expect?

• Softening of fine lines and discoloration
• Fading of dark spot
• Diminishing of enlarged pores and acne scars
• With each additional MicroPeel® Plus treatment you will notice incremental gains in the overall appearance of your skin

What are some possible negative reactions?

• Flare up of herpes simplex (cold sores) among those with a history of herpes simplex
• Acne flare up
• Mild inflammation
• Temporary spots of increased or decreased pigmentation
• Temporary increase in skin sensitivity

What must I do prior to a MicroPeel® Plus Treatments?
One week prior to treatment avoid:

• Electrolysis
• Waxing
• Loofah or any other exfoliating product
• Drying, irritating solutions including salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or glycolic acid

How many MicroPeel® Plus Treatments do I need?
The MicroPeel® Plus treatments can be performed every four to six weeks. The number of MicroPeel® Plus treatments you receive will depend upon your skin type, your discomfort level during the treatments, how much your skin peels and the goals that you and your skin therapist agree upon.

What exactly is the Netrata® Glycolic Acid Skin Renewal Peel?
The Neostrata® Peels are 100% free glycolic acid to maximize bioavailability, resulting in an effective, predictable, safe peel. Many competitive peel products are either pH adjusted, buffered or partially neutralized reducing their effectiveness and predictability. The NeoStrata® Peel System allows the trained professional to safely design a treatment program around a particular patient's skin care needs and tolerance. The NeoStrata® Glycolic Acid Skin Renewal Peel offers the flexibility of four concentrations (20%, 35%, 50%, 70%) as well as a High Potency peel (for those who have developed a tolerance for the 70% peel).Peels can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as microdermabrasion and non-ablative laser treatments.

The Neostrata® superficial peels:

• are fragrance free
• are full strength
• are physician strength
• are not tested on animals
• can be combined with other cosmetic procedures
• enhance skin renewal
• promote smoother, healthier skin
• do not contain animal derived ingredients

Can anyone be treated with the Neostrata® Glycolic Acid Peel?
To determine if you should have the Neostrata® Glycolic Acid Skin Renewal Peel treatment, you need to meet with your physician/skin therapist and discuss your medical history, skin sensitivities and peel expectations. A program will then be designed especially for you with the appropriate type and timing for a peel.

Many conditions can affect the sensitivity and reactivity of your skin to the glycolic acid peel. Your skin therapist may recommend to briefly discontinue using certain products and cosmetic procedures, or pre-treat you with other products, depending on your product-use practices and medical history.

What Kinds of improvement can I expect with a Peel Treatment?
Be sure to discuss the type and degree of skin improvements you hope to gain from the peel treatment program. Together, you can decide if your expectations are realistic and redefine your goals if necessary to get the desired improvements. The following are types of improvements that are possible with the Neostrata® Glycolic Acid peel treatment program and items to discuss with your therapist.

• Skin improvements that may result from a peel series:
  • softening of fine lines from sun damage
  • diminution of coarse lines from sun damage
  • increased smoothness in skin texture
  • mild or moderate smoothing of acne scars
  • lightening of pigmentation irregularities
  • increasing skin glow or radiance
  • some minimization of pore size
• Areas of the body where peels can be beneficial:
  • forehead
  • cheeks
  • browline
  • mouth lines
  • crow's feet
  • chin
  • back of hands
  • décolletage/chest
  • shoulders
  • neck
• Speed of improvement needed or wanted:
  • textural smoothening and improvements with acne prone skin can occur within a month
  • deeper textural changes require multiple peels. Noticeable improvements usually occur with 3 months
• Amount of healing/recovery time possible:
  • no time, back in your routine the day after the peel
  • a few days up to a week

What Should I do prior to the Peel Treatment?
In your complimentary pre-peel consultation, we will recommend pretreatment with one of the Neostrata® AHA products, Cream, Lotion or Gel. It is important to start using this Neostrata® product as soon as it is recommended, usually at least two (2) weeks prior to your peel.

What Should I do on the day of the Peel Treatment?
Come for your treatment with a fully cleansed face. If possible, no makeup, cologne or after shave should be applied, and you should avoid shaving areas to be peeled. If you have accidentally used one of the restricted products or procedures, such as hair dye or an exfoliating sponge, in the past few days, it is important to tell your doctor. Your peel treatment might be rescheduled to prevent an unanticipated deepening of the peel, since your skin may be more sensitive than your doctor expected.

How will I look or feel like after the Peel Treatment?
Initially your skin may be somewhat red or puffy. It may take up to one week for the renewal and rebuilding process to allow your skin appearance to return to "normal". During this repair/renewal period some patients have experienced some of the following: stinging, itching, burning, mild pair or discomfort, tightness, sun sensitivity, and peeling of the superficial layer of the skin. Light peeling is an expected result, of course, but not necessary to see the improvement you want. The sensations will lessen over the course of the week as the skin returns to its "normal" appearance.

Are there any possible negative reactions to a Peel Treatment?
The glycolic acid peel process can possibly cause:

1. an acne flare due to deep pore cleansing,
2. a herpes simplex flare in patients who have had previous herpes infections (particularly if no preventative treatment was used) or
3. an acne-like inflammation around the mouth (called peri-oral dermatitis).

Some patients may experience transient spots of hyper- or hypopigmentation (coloration or discoloration) after a glycolic acid peel procedure. If these conditions are left untreated, they usually resolve themselves. However, you should inform your doctor if you develop changes in skin coloration.

What is the timing for additional Peel Treatments?
If you have little discomfort with the peel treatment, and a limited shedding/peeling of the surface skin a second peel can be done two weeks later. If you have greater discomfort and skin shedding/peeling with the peel treatment, your doctor will probably recommend four to six weeks between peel treatments. The NEOSTRATA® Skin Rejuvenation System was created to allow flexibility in the timing of the peel treatments, for you to proceed at a comfortable rate of skin improvement.

How can the Refinity™ enhance your appearance?
Refinity™ can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while visibly improving your skin’s color, tone, and texture. Even after your fist peel, you may have smoother, softer skin, and see subtle, yet noticeable, difference in your appearance.

What can you except after your Refinity™ peel?
After treatment (which usually takes less than half an hour) most patients report that their skin feels softer and smoother, and they’re able to resume their normal activities immediately. A slight redness may occur, which can be covered with makeup. Some patients may experience slight skin flaking in the few days following the treatment, however skin flaking is not necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the peel.

How often can you have a peel?
Our office will be able to advise you on the frequency of our Refinity™ peel treatments. Initially a series of 4-6 peels are recommended for optimal results. For optimal maintenance, a Refinity™ peel can be performed once a month as part of an effective ongoing skin care regimen.

 

FACIALS

How do I know if I have photodamaged skin?
If you are over 30 years old and enjoy an active lifestyle your skin is probably showing signs of damage.

How many treatments are required?
Typically several treatments are required for full face treatment. The average treatment takes about 20 minutes. Results may become apparent after the first few treatments.

What will I look like after facial skin treatment?
Results will vary; your skin may appear reddened. You can expect to return to your normal activities immediately with minimal precautions such as sunscreen.

VEIN TREATMENTS

Is laser vein treatment safe?
Nurse Practitioner Sharron Carr, uses the latest in Laser technology to deliver a safe and effective treatment for unsightly spider veins.

How does Laser Vein Removal work?
The laser produces a highly concentrated beam of light that is attracted by the hemoglobin in the blood vessel. The vessel absorbs the light and is destroyed, but does not rupture or lead to extensive bruising as with older lasers. Because of our lasers deeper wavelength, the light is not absorbed by the skin, but goes directly to the vessel, allowing safe treatment of all skin types without burns or blisters.

How many treatments are required?
The number of treatments varies according to the type and size of the vein. There is typically dramatic improvement with the first treatment. Additional treatments are usually necessary to achieve the complete desired result.

Is laser vein removal painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort or no pain at all. For patients with sensitive skin, a very strong topical anesthetic can be applied to minimize discomfort.

Is it permanent?
Yes! If you are prone to vein development, veins may develop in other areas, but not in the area treated by the laser.

 

PHOTOABRASION

How does photorejuvenation work?
We use LED light treatments featuring the Sapphire 3 Laser equipment.

How long does the VitaSonix 300 Sapphire Micro-Abrasion treatment take?
The complete Sapphire Micro-Abrasion LED treatment takes 45 minutes. However, many patients opt for the treatment program.

What is a VitaSonix treatment?
The VitaSonix Sapphire Micro-Abrasion treatment consists of a crystal-free, suction-free, micro-abrasion coupled red L.E.D. light technology the process employs a sapphire head utilizing a vibrating movement with a wider range of grit (grain size), fine 100, med 70, course 50, allowing for a deeper exfoliation.

Red monochromatic light: Aids in the stimulation of cells, increasing RNA and DNA synthesis, stimulation of the fibroblasts in the connective tissue, producing collagen, elasticity and firmness of the skin.

Blue L.E.D. therapy: Exposure to blue light induces photo excitation of bacterial porphyrins, single oxygen production, and subsequent bacterial destruction.

Lymphatic drainage: Slow moving alternating pressure device combines high-frequency and red L.E.D. technology to stimulate interstitial and lymphatic circulation.

How many VitaSonix treatments do I need?
Depending on the desired results and the area being treated, physicians are recommending 6 to 10 treatments.

How often should I get VitaSonix treatments?
Most physicians are recommending a week/y or bi-weekly program.

Will the VitaSonix Sapphire Micro-Abrasion treatments hurt?
No. VitaSonix is non-thermal and patients are reporting no discomfort or pain associated with the treatments.

When will I start seeing results?
Treatments are progressive and you will notice more correction with each treatment. Patients are reporting changes as early as the first treatment.

Can I combine with other skin care treatments?
Yes, treatments can be administered alone or in conjunction with other skin care treatments such as Botox® dermal fillers, acid peels and skin rejuvenating lasers. When combined with other treatments, Vitasonix is proving to accelerate the results of the other treatment being administrated.

BOTOX

Is Botox® safe?
Yes, Botox® Cosmetic wrinkle treatment is FDA approved. There is strict legislation for the distribution of this product and Dr. Patrick Carmichael will only administer authentic, fresh containers for each patients use.

Does Botox® hurt?
No, we use fine, sterile needles to administer this service causing minimal discomfort allowing the patient to return to normal activity with no down-time.

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.

Can BOTOX treatment help?

BOTOX ® is FDA -approved for severe underarm sweating that is not adequately managed with topical agents. BOTOX ® treatment helps control this condition by temporarily blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands . When the sweat glands don't receive chemical signals, the severe sweating stops.

What Is Treatment With BOTOX ® Like?

The procedure is relatively straightforward. A small volume of BOTOX ® solution is injected into the affected underarm area through a very fine needle. The needle is placed just under the skin, so you may experience some injection-related discomfort. You will receive multiple injections based on your doctor's assessment of the area that needs to be treated

What should I expect after treatment?

You should notice a significant reduction in underarm sweating within 4 weeks of your first treatment. There is a possibility that some sweat glands may be missed, and you may continue to experience some sweating from the untreated areas. If you do not see a significant reduction in sweating, you should contact your healthcare provider and request a follow-up consultation.

DERMAL FILLERS

How do I know what dermal filler product is best for me?
During your consultation, Dr. Carmichael will determine if you are a good candidate for rejuvenating procedures. At that time he will be able to recommend which product best suits your needs.

What causes wrinkles?
The way your skin looks is directly related to the way your skin is supported. Wrinkles form when the natural collagen and hyaluronic acid in your skin diminish during the course of aging. Other factors that cause wrinkles include exposure to the sun, disease, injury, heredity and lifestyle. Collagen provides structure to your skin while hyaluronic acid provides skin volume.

What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant natural protein found in the body and provides structural support to skin, muscle, tendons and bone. Fibers of collagen are woven together, like threads in fabric, to form a framework into which new cells can grow. In the skin, collagen provides texture, resiliency and shape.

What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are substances that are injected just below the surface of the skin to replenish the collagen layer, filling lines, wrinkles and scars from the inside out. Dermal fillers can temporarily restore a smoother, more youthful appearance. Dermal fillers can also be used to add definition to the lip border. Collagen dermal fillers have been proven safe and effective for more than 20 years.

What is Collagen Replacement Therapy®?
Collagen Replacement Therapy is a safe, non-surgical wrinkle correction treatment in which highly purified collagen is injected into the skin to replenish the skin's lost collagen, restoring skin structure.

Is Collagen Replacement Therapy safe?
Yes. Collagen products from INAMED Aesthetics are approved by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are tested for a variety of contaminants in accordance with strict FDA requirements. The end result of this stringent testing is a safe product, free from detectable viruses or contaminants.

How are collagen treatments different from Botox® Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A)?
Botulinum Toxin Type A is a protein that is injected into muscles to relax them, smoothing lines and wrinkles caused by repeated facial movements. In contrast, collagen is a dermal filler and is injected below a wrinkle, scar or depression in order to "fill" it in, smoothing the surface of the skin. A popular procedure today is to combine the use of Botox and fillers for optimal results.

Is it painful?
Most people report that the injections are relatively painless. To minimize discomfort, a topical or local anesthetic can be applied to the area prior to treatment. CosmoPlast contain an anesthetic, lidocaine, which helps to temporarily numb the treatment area.

Can I have more than one area treated at the same time?
Yes, more than one area can be injected at the same time.

How frequently will I need to have Collagen Replacement Therapy?
To maintain optimal correction, touch-up injections are usually needed two or three times a year. The amount of collagen used during follow-up treatments is usually less than that used in the initial treatment. Without ongoing treatments, the collagen is gradually absorbed by the body and your face returns to its original contours.

Are dermal fillers expensive?
For the same cost as a day at the beauty salon, a few rounds of golf or a night at a favourite hotel you will look and feel so much better.