Non-surgical facial rejuvenation is the most common cosmetic intervention performed in America today. Its’ popularity has been driven by short procedure time, quick recovery, and often times significant results.
The most commonly used products are neuromodulators (Botox™ or Xeomin™) followed by Fillers (Restalyne™, Juvederm™, Voluma™, Radiesse™, or Belotero™). These two interventions are often complementary in their utility. The neuromodulators work by partially or completely inhibiting the fine muscle activity of the facial musculature. The benefit of this intervention is apparent in frown lines between they eyebrows, the fine lines or “crows feet” and the horizontal forehead lines.
Fillers are made from either hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxyapetite both of which are naturally found in the human body. They are placed beneath the skin surface to add volume to regions of the face that have become deflated during the aging process. Most commonly they are used to soften the “smile lines” or nasolabial folds. They are also placed in the cheeks and tear troughs to smooth the junction of the eye to the cheek and give a youthful fullness to the cheek. They can also be placed in the lips to plump the lips.
An alternative to filler is fat injection. Fat is harvested from your own body where it is in surplus, usually in the abdomen or lateral thigh, and injected into the face. While some of the fat does not survive the transplant process, fat injection can have very long lasting effects.
Dr. Simon has extensive experience with the use of Botox/ neuromodulators and soft tissue fillers. At the time of your consultation, he will evaluate you and work with you to develop a treatment plan that will give you your most optimal result.
In general, there is minimal bruising or pain with Botox injections. You should be able to return to work the same day as your injections. While results may vary, fat injection is considered a permanent way to increase soft tissue volume. In the face, up to 80-90% of fat cells may survive harvest and transfer.
After a Botox injection, it usually takes 5-7 days for the injections to reach their full effects. Occasionally, particularly if it is your first visit, a touch-up may be necessary to optimize your results. Depending on dosing, the effects of Botox may last up to 6-8 months.
Patrick Simon, MD - Facial Plastic Surgery 