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Frequently Asked Questions

Contraindications

Patients that should not be treated include:

  • Those who are sunburned or have irritated skin in the sites to be treated
  • Those who are exhibiting unidentified skin conditions in the sites to be treated
  • Those who have healed poorly after other types of laser treatments
  • Patients prone to skin discoloration
  • Patients who are taking photosensitizing medication, such as Accutane, should discontinue the medication 6 months before treatment
    Patients who are sunburned should wait until the burn subsides. Herpes Simplex Labialis (fever blisters) can be activated by laser treatment, especially on the upper lip, and patients with a tendency for fever blistering can be started on antiviral medication before treatment.

Do I need to use topical anesthesia? What about gels?

No. Anesthetics and cooling gels are not needed with Aerolase LightPod Neo, because MicroPulse-1064 makes it uniquely pain-free. There is a mild sensation of heat that is very tolerable.

Can it be used on dark skin?

Actually, the Aerolase LightPod Neo is the safest laser in the industry for darker skin types or tanned skin. This is because of MicroPulse-1064 technology, which essentially eliminates treatment pain while minimizing the chances of hyper and/ or hypo-pigmentation. Patients with skin types IV-VI should be treated very cautiously, especially in the facial region, as they pose a higher risk of having hyper and/or hypo-pigmentations.

FAQ’s – Vascular Lesion Removal with Aerolase LightPod Neo

  1. Setting expectations

    Some patients will respond better than others and the number of treatments for each vessel may depend on the darkness and size of the vessel as well as the amount of activity the patient undergoes post-treatment. Vessels treated on the legs have a higher tendency to resurface, as the blood pressure tends to be higher. After treatment, rust-colored staining of adjacent skin tissue, called hemosiderin, may appear from the breakdown of hemoglobin and will subside over the course of 3-4 weeks.

  2. How many treatment sessions are required?

    This can vary depending on the size and color of the vessel. Typically angiomas and spider veins will disappear completely after 1-2 treatments although in some cases more treatments may be necessary.

  3. Is it permanent, or do the vessels come back?

    Many vessels will be gone permanently, but due to skin aging, continued sun exposure, and hormonal changes, new vessels will likely develop over time and more treatments will need to be performed. To slow the aging process and reduce the likeliness of new vessels developing, patients should always apply sunblock when in the sun and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

  4. What happens after treatment?

    The vascular lesion may appear to look like a cat scratch for 3-4 weeks. It will eventually scab over and slough off so it is important to always keep the area moist to reduce the risk of scarring.

FAQ’s – Rosacea Treatment with Aerolase LightPod Neo

  1. Setting expectations

    Some patients or lesions may not respond as well as others. Rosacea lesions tend to subside after the first or subsequent treatments. Regardless of the treatment response, recurrence is common and can be caused by a number of lifestyle factors. It is important to understand that rosacea is a chronic condition that can only be controlled rather than cured.

  2. How many treatment sessions are required?

    Individual results will vary but can depend on the body surface that is affected. While some patients may see relief in just one treatment, other patients may need a number of treatments to achieve their desired result.

  3. What causes rosacea?

    Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin that is characterized by facial redness. It is often punctuated by episodes of inflammatory papules (bumps), pustules (pimples), and swelling.

  4. How does laser therapy work for rosacea?

    The laser light destroys visible blood vessels or reduces extensive redness. The Aerolase LightPod Neo laser emits pulses of light that target tiny blood vessels just under the skin. The heat from the laser’s energy builds in the vessels, causing them to disintegrate.

  5. Is it permanent, or will rosacea come back?

    Rosacea is typically characterized by having up and down periods where the symptoms heighten and lessen. While rosacea is not curable, it can be controlled with laser light so that the redness will decrease. While rosacea may improve with treatment and even be gone for a number of months, it may never completely go away.

  6. What happens after treatment?

    Immediately after treatment, there may be some transient redness or even a purple discoloration in or adjacent to the treated area, which is more common in older patients or those who are taking blood-thinning medications and should resolve within a few days. The redness and vasculature may not immediately disappear and may take up to several months to fully improve and clear. Typically, maintenance sessions will need to be scheduled for continued improvement if flare-ups occur.

FAQ’s – Melasma Treatment with Aerolase LightPod Neo

  1. What is Melasma?

    Melasma is a very common patchy brown, tan, or blue-gray facial skin discoloration, primarily seen on the upper cheeks, lips, forehead, and chin of women. Common predisposing factors include hormone exposure (pregnancy, birth control pills), excessive sunlight exposure, and genetic factors. People with olive or darker skin, such as Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern individuals, have higher incidences of melasma. The Aerolase LightPod Neo can safely and effectively treat pigmented areas, resulting in an even and uniform skin tone

  2. How many treatment sessions are required?

    This can vary depending on the size and density of melanin and the depth of the affected area. Typically melasma will lighten or disappear completely after 1-2 treatments although in some cases more treatments may be necessary.

  3. What happens after treatment?

    Typically, melasma will slowly lighten over the course of the next few days to weeks as the pigmented area is slowly absorbed into the skin by your body’s natural healing process. In some cases, the pigment will darken before becoming lighter. In the event that any crusting or scabbing occurs, it is important to always keep the area moist to reduce the risk of scarring.

FAQ’s – Skin Tightening/Rejuvenation with Aerolase LightPod Neo

  • Setting expectations

    The best candidates for skin rejuvenation are patients showing the initial signs of aging such as fine lines, minor wrinkles, sun damage, and vessels as well as signs of reduced skin laxity. Patients should begin to see results immediately after the treatment and the results will continue to become better over time. After the complete set of treatments (typically once a month for 3- 6 months) patients can expect to see the results continue but may opt to have maintenance sessions every few months.

  • How many treatment sessions are required?

    This can vary depending on skin and the severity of the condition, but generally, 3-6 sessions are required to achieve a good result. After that, the patient may need maintenance every few months depending on their skin type.

  • When can I expect to see an improvement in my condition?

    Improvement may be seen anywhere immediately after the treatment to a few weeks after the first treatment. Typically a session every month for 3- 6 months is required. Patients should notice considerable results during the entire course of treatments and beyond due to the constant growth of new collagen and elastin. It is important to realize that there is no way to stop the skin’s aging process, so further treatment may be required in the future.

  • Is it permanent, or will my spots and laxity come back?

    While your skin will appear firmer, and more full, and both red and brown spots will diminish, the skin will continue to age so maintenance treatments may be required in the future. To reduce the signs of aging it is important to wear sunscreen, which will slow any increase of wrinkles and sun damage.

  • FAQ’s – Acne Treatments with Aerolase LightPod Neo

  • Setting expectations

    Clearance of acne typically takes 4-6 treatments. The laser light heats the affected area to effectively kill the p. acnes bacteria while also helping to shrink the sebaceous glands, which will cause them to produce less oil, limit future outbreaks and reduce pore size.

  • How many treatment sessions are required?

    This can vary depending on skin and severity of the condition, but generally 4 to 6 sessions are required to achieve a good result. After that, the patient may need maintenance every few months depending on their skin type.

  • When can I expect to see an improvement in my condition?

    Improvement may be seen after only one treatment, but best clearance is achieved after 4 sessions. Some patients may worsen before getting better.

  • Can it be used on acne scars?

    Yes, during the normal course of acne treatment the laser light will also help to lessen any cratering or pock marks caused by acne. This is enabled by the laser light superheating the water within the skin’s dermis and helping rebuild and regrow both collagen and elastin, effectively helping smooth out any imperfections left behind from acne.

  • Contraindications

    SkinPen should not be used on patients who have active skin cancer in the treatment area(s); open wounds, sores, or irritated skin in the treatment area(s); an allergy to stainless steel or anesthetics; a hemorrhagic (bleeding) disorder or hemostatic (bleeding) dysfunction; are pregnant or nursing; or are currently taking drugs with the ingredient isotretinoin (such as Accutane). Talk to your treatment provider at White Pebble Aesthetic Dermatology to see if this treatment is right for you.

    How does it work?

    SkinPen creates hundreds to thousands of “micro” skin punctures per second to stimulate the skin’s natural wound healing process – inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling – to prompt tissue remodeling without causing scar tissue formation. Most patients can return to normal activities within 24 hours.

    Why use it?

    SkinPen is clinically proven to fight the appearance of neck wrinkles and reduce the appearance of acne scars. In fact, 90% of subjects in the clinical trial would recommend the treatment to friends and family. It’s a minimally invasive procedure performed in-office with little to no downtime. As the first FDA-cleared microneedling device, SkinPen sets the industry standard for safety.

    Will it work for me?

    Unlike some alternatives, SkinPen has been clinically proven to be effective for women and men with all skin tones. SkinPen treatments, when properly spaced and overseen by a clinician, can be used for years.

    How much does it cost?

    Microneedling procedures tend to cost less than the alternatives, due to their non-invasive nature. The cost of SkinPen procedures varies depending on the size and the number of treatment areas. During your consultation, your treatment provider can develop a plan to work within your budget.

    What about SkinPen did the FDA clear?

    Quite a bit. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s clearance covers not only the SkinPen device but the entire protocol. That includes the Skinfuse® Lift HG hydrogel used to protect against abrasion and friction during the treatment, as well as the custom-designed BioSheath to prevent cross-contamination.

    Does microneedling hurt?

    We aim to provide a calm and relaxing experience for our patients at the White Pebble Aesthetic Dermatology. You will be instructed to arrive at your appointment approximately 45 minutes early to cleanse your skin and apply a prescription-grade numbing cream. This cream has been tested and specially formulated for the most comfortable Microneedling treatment.

    How does The Perfect Derma Peel compare to other peels?

    The Perfect Derma Peel combines powerful ingredients with effective acids to deliver outstanding results after one treatment. This unique formula allows for an increase in lifting of fine lines and wrinkles as well as reducing hyperpigmentation including Melasma. The Perfect Derma Peel is a non-invasive, virtually painless treatment with only 2-4 days of peeling.

    How many treatments are necessary for visible improvement?

    After one treatment of The Perfect Derma Peel, overall skin tone and complexion will appear smooth, glowing and fresh. Depending on skin conditions, multiple treatments may be necessary for desired results. A series of 2-3 treatments applied once every 4 weeks will allow for optimal results for more severe skin conditions such as Melasma and active acne.

    How long will my results last?

    As long as the skin is maintained with proper skin care products like The Perfect A, The Perfect C, and The Perfect Bleaching Cream the improved results will last. We recommend 2 – 4 treatments of The Perfect Derma Peel per year to sustain desired results for regular maintenance and rejuvenation.

    What skin types respond well to The Perfect Derma Peel?

    All skin types (Fitzpatrick 1-6) and all ethnicities are safe to treat and will benefit from The Perfect Derma Peel.

    What type of preconditioning is required?

    The Perfect Derma Peel requires no preconditioning of the skin prior to treatment. Only those patients who use Accutane must stop usage (4) months prior to treatment in order to achieve desired results.

    Does The Perfect Derma Peel burn?

    The patient may feel a slight stinging or tingling sensation which will subside after 30-60 seconds. Numbing takes place once the first pass of The Perfect Derma Peel solution is applied. A fan or cool breeze may be used for the comfort of the patient.

    How long will the application process take?

    The Perfect Derma Peel application only takes 15 minutes to administer.

    How severe is the peeling and what is the duration of the peeling process?

    The amount of peeling skin associated with The Perfect Derma Peel is mainly a sloughing of thin sheets of epidermis skin that begins around day three and generally is completed by day six or seven.

    What will I look like during The Perfect Derma Peel treatment process and post peel?

    Immediately after the peel has been applied the skin will either appear red, like a sunburn, or darker. On day three, peeling will begin. The Perfect Derma Moisturizer will reduce the visibility of peeling by hydrating. By day six or seven the peeling process should be complete.

    Will my daily routine be affected after the treatment?

    Normal activities may be resumed immediately post peel. We recommend avoiding heavy exercise and excessive sweating during the peeling process.

    Can make up be worn post peel?

    The day the peel is applied the patient should not put any make up or other products on his or her face post peel. Make may be worn on day 2 of the peeling process.

    How many treatments are required?

    The Perfect Derma Peel may be applied initially every four weeks if necessary. Thereafter, we recommend once every 3 – 6 months to maintain improved skin results, as well as to prevent further aging and environmental damage.

    Can The Perfect Derma Peel be applied to other parts of the body other than the face?

    The face, neck, chest and hands are the most commonly applied areas. The Perfect Derma Peel can be applied to other areas of the body, but the process and the results will not necessarily be the same.

    Will The Perfect Derma Peel help improve acne and acne scars?

    The Perfect Derma Peel formula was designed to help improve various problematic skin conditions, including acne. The Perfect Derma Peel helps minimize the damage and scarring that can result from acne. Glutathione helps increase cellular turnover thus reducing stubborn acne scars. A series of peels is required.

    How many treatments are necessary to resolve acne scars?

    Depending on the severity of the scarring, a series of 3-4 peels spaced four weeks apart is recommended for optimal results. The number of treatments will also depend on how vigorously the layers are applied.

    How will The Perfect Derma Peel improve my skin?

    The Perfect Derma Peel will reduce or eliminate hyper pigmentation, sun damage and Melasma. It will control Acne and reduce Acne Scars. In addition, it will help erase fine lines and wrinkles, reduce enlarged pores and build collagen and elastin for a healthier, firmer complexion. The overall tone, texture and clarity of the skin will be improved.

    Will my skin be sensitive post peel?

    Skin will be more sensitive during the peeling process until the PH level is replenished.

    Is sun exposure permitted post peel?

    Sun exposure should be limited if not avoided before and during the peel process to avoid uneven exposure.

    When can the patient receive his or her next treatment of The Perfect Derma Peel?

    3-4 weeks after recovery (once the entire peel process is complete.)

    What are dermal fillers? What is hyaluronic acid?

    Dermal fillers are facial injection treatments used to help diminish wrinkles while restoring volume and fullness in the face and hands. There are several types of dermal fillers, one being hyaluronic acid. All Restylane and Juvederm products are transparent hyaluronic acids, which are sugars naturally found in the skin that help provide hydration, fullness and elasticity.

    How long do Restylane or Juvederm treatments last?

    With full treatment, you can see lasting results for 6 months and up to 18 months depending on the location of the injection and the products used.

    How long does it take Restylane or Juvederm treatments to work?

    Depending on your volume needs, most Restylane or Juvederm treatment appointments last less than an hour and begin to work almost immediately by adding volume to smooth away wrinkles. A clear gel formulation of hyaluronic acid, Restylane and Juvederm products act like your body's own hyaluronic acid (and eventually break down naturally). Each Restylane or Juvederm product is designed for a specific purpose.

    How much do Restylane or Juvederm treatments cost?

    There are several factors that figure into how much treatment will cost, including:

    • Number of treatment sessions needed
    • Amount of product used per session
    • Degree of necessary correction determined by you and your specialist
    • Discounts and special offers

    Therefore, injection costs will vary from person to person, the best way to determine projected costs is to have a
    FREE consultation with specialists at White Pebble Aesthetic Dermatology. Set it up today!

    What are the side effects of Restylane or Juvederm products?

    After your treatment, you may experience side effects, such as swelling, redness, pain, bruising, headache, tenderness, lump formation, itching at the injection site and impaired hand function. These are typically mild in severity and normally last less than 7 days in nasolabial folds and less than 14-18 days in lips.

    Who should not use Restylane or Juvederm products?

    The Restylane or Juvederm family of products should not be used by people who:

    • Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 22 years of age
    • Have recently used drugs that thin the blood or prevent clotting
    • Have had previous bad allergies, particularly to microorganisms known as gram-positive bacteria
    • Have serious allergies to drugs that have previously required in-hospital treatment
    • Have bleeding disorders
    • Have a known allergy to lidocaine

    Who should NOT have a Peel?

    – If you have any of the following conditions, a peel should NOT be done:

    • Accutane (Iso-Tretinoin) use within the past six (6) months
    • Active herpes simplex (cold sores)
    • Facial Warts
    • If you are now pregnant
    • If you form keloid or hypertrophic scars
    • If you have a history of sun allergies
    • Prior bad reaction to a peel
    • Recent depilatory treatment or waxing to the area to be peeled
    • Recent radiation treatment for cancer
    • Sun burn or significant sun exposure in the last two days
    • Surgery or cryosurgery, IPL or Laser treatment within the last month to the area that you plan to have peeled

    How is the skin exfoliated and rejuvenated by using Miami Peel®+?

    -The Miami Peel®+ exfoliates by removing the top layer of skin and causing it to slough off within a few days. The Miami Peel®+ will safely remove dead cells, stimulate collagen formation, smooth rough, dry skin, improve the texture of sun-damaged skin, and help even out skin tones.

    -The Miami Peel®+ is beneficial for improving the appearance of acne/blemished skin and hyperpigmentation or dark spots that arise following surgery or other trauma to the skin. Periodic treatments in combination with a physician-prescribed home care regimen are recommended to maintain these results.

    What ingredients promote exfoliation, brightening, and rejuvenation?

    -The Miami Peel®+ is a proven and patented light to medium peel formula that effectively exfoliates, bleaches, and inhibits pigment production.

    -The formulation includes Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids often referred to as “fruit acids”, such as Lactic Acid (from sour milk), Citric Acid (from citrus fruits), and Salicylic Acid (from willow bark and wintergreen leaves).

    -Another natural ingredient, Kojic Acid (extracted from rice mold) is an important part of the Miami Peel because of its anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and especially for its proven skin lightening and brightening capabilities.

    How many treatments are recommended with Miami Peel®+ ?

    Usually, a series of 6-8 treatments is recommended in order to obtain the best results.

    How much downtime is expected with a Miami Peel®+ ?

    -There is typically no downtime with a Miami Peel®+, you can actually receive a peel on your lunch hour and return to work if you avoid excessive heat and sun exposure and apply a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen such as Q-Sunshade SPF30 / PA+++. The recovery from the peel is rapid and usually consists of minor flaking and redness for a few days.

    -NEVER pick or pull off any exfoliating/flaking skin always let it slough off naturally.

    When will I start “peeling” with a Miami Peel®+ , for how long and how much?

    -This is a superficial peel and typically only light to medium exfoliation will be experienced.

    -Every individual is unique, and no two patients' experiences will be exactly the same, but usually, only light to medium flaking will be experienced with the Miami Peel®+. On average you will see some mild flaking by day two or three following the treatment. It is possible to see mild flaking continue for up to five or six days.

    What makes the Miami Peel®+ different?

    -The Miami Peel®+ instead uses skin-friendly Lactic Acid (which forms a part of your skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor or NMF), Citric Acid ( which has been utilized since antiquity as a lightener of freckles and age spots), and Salicylic acid (which helps regulate the sebaceous glands and oil secretion and its anti-inflammatory benefits will simultaneously aid in reducing the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots associated with acne lesions) which will leave your skin with a more even tone, softer and more elastic, with a youthful glow.

    What skin types can benefit from the Miami Peel®+?

    -Miami Peel®+ treatments are appropriate for almost all skin types. These treatments are well tolerated and proven effective in years of use, including the darkest skin types IV and V.

    -They are especially helpful for improving the appearance of sun damaged / photo-aged skin, hyperpigmented skin, aging wrinkled skin, and mature adult oily/acne-prone skin.

    Can I have a Miami Peel®+ Treatment on other parts of the body?

    The Miami Peel®+ may be applied to any part of the body. It has been used very effectively to improve skin tone and texture of the hands and chest as well as the face. As certain parts of the body are more sensitive than others and skin thickness varies, your physician can best decide what areas other than the face are also appropriate for treatment.

    What about sun exposure?

    Avoid sun exposure. Daily use of sunscreens will prolong the effects of your treatment and help reduce your risk of skin cancer and hyperpigmentation

    Why are there uneven skin tones?

    -Uneven skin tones are caused by conditions like melasma, sun exposure, acne blemished skin, hormonal changes, and some chemical or medical conditions. All of these factors can contribute to the formation of areas in the skin with increased pigmentation making the skin color uneven.

    -Also as a person ages, pigmentation levels increase as cell turnover decreases. The top layer of the skin (the epidermis) is made up of dead cells, which are continuously shed as new cells come up from below. The build-up of dead skin cells on the outer layer can lead to dull skin and clogged pores.

    -Exfoliation with the Miami Peel® will help remove the dull, hyperpigmented skin creating a smoother, more radiant skin appearance.

    What is Melasma & Hyperpigmentation?

    Melasma is the medical term used to describe the patches of hyper pigmentation that are found on the forehead and prominent areas of the face. Melasma is derived from the Greek word “melas” meaning Black. These mask like facial discolorations or brown patches are more common in women than in men. Melasma is a harmless condition but is very esthetically displeasing. Most forms of this condition can be treated successfully with the Miami Peel® Skin Exfoliation Program.Some of the causes of Melasma are:

    • Hormonal changes caused by the use of birth control pills
    • Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy
    • Hormonal changes caused by menopause
    • Excessive sun exposure
    • Reaction to medications or to certain ingredients used in cosmetic products
    • Hyperpigmentation is a condition caused by excess of pigment (referred to by physicians as melanin) in the skin causing areas of brown spots on any part of the body. Pigmentation levels usually increase with age. Brown spots are a common problem for those who have had excessive sun exposure, are taking synthetic hormones or are undergoing hormonal changes as a result of pregnancy or menopause. There are several types of hyper pigmentation seen in humans:

    • Freckles
    • Disease-related hyperpigmentation
    • Pregnancy-related hyperpigmentation
    • Enzymatic deficiencies
    • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

    Can Moxi treat darker skin type?

    The 1927nm laser within the Moxi handpiece targets water, which means it can treat all skin types, year-round.

    Who is the ideal Moxi patient?

    Anyone looking to brighten and refresh their skin.

    How fast are the treatments? Is anesthetic cream needed?

    A typical Moxi treatment takes 8 to 12 minutes depending on the number of passes and density. Anesthetic cream is only needed on more aggressive treatments.

    How deep does it penetrate?

    The penetration depth of Moxi’s 1927nm laser can vary slightly depending on the energy used and ranges from 100-200um.

    What is Neurotoxin/Neuromodulator?

    -Neurotoxin/Neuromodulators are treatments for wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movements.

    -The most commonly treated areas include:

    • Lines around the eyes, known as crow’s feet, caused by squinting or smiling
    • The horizontal lines across the forehead caused by raising the eyebrows
    • The lines and folding of the skin between the eyebrows (glabella) caused by frowning
    • Downward turning of the mouth (DAO), and
    • Neck bands (platysma)

    Are they safe?

    Yes! They have been available for years, and have been used to treat many diseases. In fact, it is used in children as young as 2 years old to treat cerebral palsy. It has been proven to be very safe through extensive testing and research.

    Who should not get it?

    Contraindications:

    pregnancy, lactation, anticoagulant use, history of reaction to toxin or albumin, preexisting motor neuron disease (e.g, myasthenia gravis, Eaton-lambert syndrome, neuropathies); use of aminoglycoside (gentamicin, amikacin, tobramycin, neomycin, and streptomycin) or spectinomycin antibiotics which are known to affect neuromuscular transmission and potentiate the effects of BTA; age younger than 12 years (relative), infection at the injection site.

    Will it poison me?

    No, it is not toxic to you and it is not a poison. The product is a natural, purified protein. It is an approved drug that is used in very tiny doses and it comes from a naturally occurring bacterium –similar to where Penicillin comes from the mold.

    How do I know it won’t be toxic to me?

    Typically for a cosmetic treatment, you may receive fewer than 100 units. To make someone remotely sick, you would have to receive OVER 35 times this dose all at one time, intravenously, which would NEVER happen.

    How does it work?

    Neuromodulators work by simply relaxing the muscles underneath the skin to create a smooth and refreshed appearance.

    How long does the procedure take?

    Generally, after the consultation, the procedure only takes up to 15 minutes. Since there is no down time, you can get right back to your day!

    How quickly does it work?

    It starts to show effect after 2-3 days. It can take up to 1 week for the product to take full effect. Usually, we ask patients to wait for the full 14 days to pass in order to see the full result.

    How is it done?

    It is injected with a very tiny needle (it only feels like a little pinch).

    How long does the effect last? Is it permanent?

    No, it is not permanent. The results will last 3-4 months on average but everyone is different. If you follow the directions given to you by your injector and book your first 3 treatments promptly every 3-4 months (without waiting in between), you may eventually be able to increase the duration of the results (4-6 months).

    Does it hurt?

    Most patients say that the injections feel similar to a little pinch, although everyone is different. Following treatment, we often hear patients remark “is that all?”!

    Is it going to be worse when it wears off?

    No! Your face will never get worse if you stop using neuromodulators, or when it wears off. They “stop or slow” the clock of aging. When you stop receiving treatments, the “aging clock” will resume as normal. At the very minimum, you will simply return to where you started. If you use neuromodulators for a number of years and then stop –your muscles learn to relax and therefore you will end up looking a little better than you did when you originally started.

    How much does it cost?

    The cost of treatment varies for each patient depending on the areas being treated, but a personal consultation can give you the exact amount.

    I don’t want to look like a mask without expression –will that happen?

    No! Your injector will ensure that you get the look you want –as natural as you want. Most people simply want to look natural, relaxed, and refreshed, without looking “done”. In the experienced hands of the professionals at our clinic, patients typically say that no one knows that they had anything done. Friends simply say that they look well rested and great!

    What is a Unit?

    A unit of a neuromodulator is simply a very tiny measurement of a medication. The exact number of units you require (to achieve the desired result) will be discussed during your confidential consultation. For example, to treat the glabella (frown lines between the eyebrows) usually requires 16-25 units.

    What are the side effects?

    Side effects are rare and are not permanent. Rarely, there can be some minor bruising (which is easily covered up with makeup) or a slight short-term headache. Bruising can be decreased by avoiding the following for 10 days prior to injection: Aspirin, Motrin or Ibuprofen, vitamin E, and green tea. Most patients do not experience any side effects at all.

    I have heard that you can get a drooping eyelid –is this true?

    Yes, but it is a very rare side effect. The incidence of this side effect is less than 1% and will last from only a few days to a few weeks. Most patients do not experience any side effects at all.

    Where does it go in my body?

    This medication stays local in the muscles that are injected. After the injections, it is simply metabolized and broken down into natural by-products within a few hours.

    Who is the miraDry treatment for?

    -MiraDry is for people who suffer from underarm sweat and/or have been diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating in the underarms).

    -The miraDry system is contraindicated in people with heart pacemakers and other electronic device implants, who need supplemental oxygen and with known resistance to or history of intolerance of local anesthesia including lidocaine and epinephrine.

    -Key complications associated with miraDry include swelling, discomfort or pain, redness, bruising, bumps and altered sensation in the treated area.

    Should I be concerned about permanently eliminating sweat glands?

    While your body does need sweat glands to cool itself, your body has 2-4 million sweat glands and only about 2% are found in your underarms. Eliminating 2% of sweat glands does not affect your body’s ability to cool itself.

    How many miraDry treatments do I need?

    You can see results in as little as one treatment and patients are often satisfied after their first treatment. However, for some patients, they may want to do additional treatments for improved results. For best results, two treatments, 3 months apart, are recommended.

    How long does it take?

    A full treatment will generally last about one hour.

    Is there pain or downtime?

    -Most patients describe the procedure as painless with little to no downtime. Local anesthesia is administered to the underarms prior to the treatment for patient comfort. Most patients return to regular activity (like returning to work) immediately.

    -Exercise is typically resumed within several days. Patients may experience swelling, numbness, bruising, and sensitivity in the underarm area for several days after treatment and the aftercare instructions should be followed closely for best treatment outcomes.

    Is it safe?

    -Yes, miraDry is FDA-cleared and has a demonstrated safety profile with over 300,000 treatments performed globally.

    What can patients expect after treatment?

    -Patients can expect an immediate reduction of sweat after the procedure.

    -After the miraDry procedure, patients should follow the after-care instructions closely to avoid infection, reduce swelling and minimize any discomfort.

    Are there any side effects?

    -Some localized soreness or swelling will occur, and typically clear within a few weeks. Some patients have short-term altered sensations in the skin of their underarms or upper arms, which gradually disappear.

    Is miraDry covered by insurance?

    MiraDry typically is not covered by insurance, but some patients may be able to use HSA/FSA funds toward miraDry. Please contact your HSA/FSA manager to find out.

    What is Hydrafacial?

    -HydraFacial is an invigorating treatment that can be given in as little as 30 minutes.

    -It delivers long-term skin health and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of all skin types. It offers instant, noticeable results with no downtime or irritation.

    -The HydraFacial treatment removes dead skin cells and extracts impurities while simultaneously bathing the new skin with cleansing, hydrating and moisturizing serums.

    -The treatment is soothing, refreshing, non-irritating, and immediately effective.

    Why is Hydrafacial good for my skin?

    Hydration is the foundation of healthy, radiant skin. Irritation of the skin has been proven to increase signs of aging. HydraFacial is a hydrating and non-irritating treatment.

    Am I a candidate?

    -The HydraFacial treatment is designed for all skin types.

    -Even the most sensitive skin easily tolerates the HydraFacial treatment.

    -We will choose specific treatment serums and/or customize the treatment for your unique skin conditions and needs.

    How long does the treatment take? Is there any downtime or pain involved?

    Our goal is to help support you in a balanced lifestyle. That’s why HydraFacial is a fast, efficient treatment that takes as little as 30 minutes. You may put on makeup and return to your normal activities right after the treatment since there is no downtime.

    What results may be expected? How many treatments are needed to see results?

    -Many clients report seeing visible skin refinement and an even, radiant skin tone after just one treatment.

    -Follow skin care regimen recommended by your treatment provider to make the result last longer.

    -We don’t believe in quick fixes, so one treatment per month is recommended for improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, and oily and congested skin.

    -Continued HydraFacial treatments are highly recommended to maintain skin health results.

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