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June 11, 2011

Can Surgery Remove Persistent Dark Circles?

Filed under: hyaluronic acid fillers,Perlane,Restylane,restylane in los angeles,Restylane Injections,restylane los angeles,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 8:11 pm

Dark circles under your eyes can make you look old and can even degrade your self-image.  Diet, exercise, and plenty of rest are cited as solutions for dark circles.  Skin creams and dark circle concealers can provide some help.  Often people are under the mistaken impression that surgery will fix the dark circle.  While there are a small percentage of individuals who will benefit from surgery for their particular type of dark circle, in the majority of cases surgery will be of little benefit and can make the situation worse.

Why don’t cosmetic creams and bleaches work?

Although creams and bleaches don’t work to brighten the area under your eye, a dark circle concealer may do the trick.  Dark circle concealers work by mixing mineral particles in the cream.  These minerals reflect the light to create the illusion that the area under your eye is fuller.  Concealers are less expensive than under eye filler, but concealers stay on the skin just a few hours.  In contrast, and under eye filler service can provide help for up to a year and in some case longer without the need to constantly apply makeup.

The darkness of under eye circles is optical.  The skin is dark because there is no fat between the thin lower eyelid skin and the darkly colored muscle just under the skin.  Filling the hollow with hyaluronic acid fillers reduces the area in the lower eyelid that can shadow, improving the dark circle.  Under eye filing with Restylane using the DeepfillTM method developed by Dr. Steinsapir directly helps the hollowness in the lower eyelid, a major factor contributing to the dark circle.

Restylane can help

Dr. Steinsapir finds that under eye Restylane® is the best option for dark eye circles.  Restylane® is a hylauronic acid filler made of up cross-linked sugar gel used to fill wrinkles and provide volume in the face.  “Unfortunately, that lower eyelid circle develops early on the face,” notes Dr. Steinsapir who commonly treats young entertainers who needs to maintain their youthful edge in Hollywood.  The treatment requires a skillful hand but once placed and adjusted, the treatment is completely natural and can’t be detected by others. No wonder this has become the most popular eye dark circles treatment.

When you do decide to have under eye filler, take time to look for a doctor who knows what they are doing.   Dr. Steinsapir reports that when he teaches other doctors to perform the method, he often finds that they lack the detailed anatomic knowledge needed to successfully perform the treatment.  It is also critical that the injecting physician assess how you do after the treatment because a certain percentage of treatments require an adjustment.  Dr. Steinsapir explains that everyone holds a slightly different amount of water in the tissues and small areas of fullness can spoil an otherwise great result.  For this reason, he encourages his patients to follow up about a week after treatment to assess how the service has settled.  “Adjustments can easily be made with the Restylane® treatment at any time after the service, which is why the treatment is so powerful,” he notes.  He advises avoiding medicines and herbal products that can thin the blood for about a week before treatment.  If you are taking something prescribed by a doctor, check with your doctor first before stopping a medication.  Also it is advisable not to work-out until 24 hours after a treatment.  These precautions minimize the risk of bruising.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is a much sought after oculofacial surgeon.  He is an innovator in minimally invasive cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and has invented new methods for treating with BOTOX, Fillers and cutting edge reconstructive eyelid  and midface surgery.  He specializes in high precision eyelid surgery and is a leader in correcting prior facial and eyelid surgery, including multiple revised cosmetic eyelid reconstructions.  He attended medical school at the UCLA and completed ophthalmology residency at The University of Chicago.  He is multiple fellowship trained including three years of fellowship training in oculofacial plastic surgery at UCLA, and a two-year cosmetic surgery fellowship in Rancho Mirage.  He is widely published and lectures to other surgeons nationally and internationally.  He is an associate clinical professor of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA.  His private practice is located in West Los Angeles, immediately serving the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills communities.  Additionally, individuals from all over the country and the world regularly come to Los Angeles for this expert care.

To learn more about Dr. Steinsapir’s specialization in Restylane treatments, please contact us today.

Services described may be “off-label” and lack FDA approval. This article is informational and does not constitute an advertisement for off-label treatment. No services should be provided without a good faith examination by a licensed physician and an informed consent with a discussion of risks, benefits, alternatives, and the likelihood of treatment success. Only you and your treating physician or surgeon can determine if a treatment is right for you.

March 4, 2011

Micro Needling and the Need for Science-Based Treatments

Filed under: Beverly Hills BOTOX,Beverly Hills Restylane,Botox,Botox Los Angeles,Cosmetic Facial Fillers,Cosmetic Surgery,facial cosmetic surgery,facial fillers,Restylane,restylane in los angeles,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 4:53 pm

Micro needling, also called skin needling, is a recent trend in cosmetic treatment marketing that sounds miraculous in promotional media but unfortunately is not backed by science or medicine.  Does it work?  We can’t say for sure without extensive research on micro needling, and it’s important to understand that not everybody responds to a treatment in the same way.  But we can say from simple human experience that most products that sound too good to be true often are, especially when they aren’t supported by science, research findings, or promising new approaches that are grounded in established knowledge.

So what is micro needling?  In this treatment you use numbing cream and a roller to puncture hundreds of tiny holes in your skin.  Some claim that this can cure everything from wrinkles to scars to hair loss to unwanted fat.  These claims remain unproven.  Given the different causes of problems as diverse as too much cellulite and too little hair, it seems strange that one procedure says it can address all this and more.  With medicine doctors typically approach the cause of a problem to effectively address it, which is why Dr. Steinsapir only provides evidence-based treatments.  “Cure-alls” may be cleverly marketed, but most often we find that they don’t make sense, aren’t supported by evidence, may rely on dishonest marketing techniques like camera tricks, and are often expensive without delivering on their promises.

Seeking Proven Treatments for Reliable Results

For reliable results and the most return on your financial and emotional investment, we advise you to find an experienced cosmetic surgeon who can help educate you on scientifically grounded treatment options and customize the best individual treatment plan for your unique situation.  Dr. Steinsapir is highly experienced in providing and perfecting established cosmetic treatments like BOTOX and surgeries like the facelift, while also taking leadership in improving cosmetic treatment options, as demonstrated by his work with carved ePTFE orbital rim implants in the midface lift, chemical peel advances, Restylane for dark circles, and Microdroplet BOTOX.  You cannot know which treatment option is best for you until you consult with a doctor specializing in facial cosmetic procedures.  Whichever treatment route you and your cosmetic surgeon ultimately feel is best for you, it should be custom-designed and based on evidence backed by research.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is board certified in Ophthalmology and has completed numerous fellowships, including three years of Orbit and Eyelid fellowships at the prestigious Jules Stein Eye Institute at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and a separate two year cosmetic surgery fellowship under the auspices of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.  He is widely respected for his work and has published over thirty scientific papers and eight book chapters.   He is a true innovator, having developed Microdroplet™ BOTOX®, a unique patented method for injecting BOTOX®, Deepfill™ under-eye Restylane® treatment to address the dark circle and under-eye hollow for up to a year without the need for retreatment.  Dr. Steinsapir is one of the foremost eyelid surgeons in the world.  He is on staff at the UCLA Hospital and Medical Center where he is an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute.  He is also on staff at Harbor/UCLA Medical Center where he serves as an attending surgeon.  He is in practice in West Los Angeles and is in high demand by discerning individuals from Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Southern California.  Many of his patients also come to see him from around the country and the world. Very few doctors offer the level of skill and expertise he brings to cosmetic surgery and aesthetic restorative surgery to address prior unsatisfactory eyelid surgery.  Please contact us today to learn more about evidence-based treatment options with Dr. Steinsapir for proven results.

November 2, 2010

I’ve heard that the enzyme that erases Restylane wrecks the skin. Is that true?

Filed under: Beverly Hills Restylane,eyelid filler,facial fillers,hyaluronic acid fillers,Juvederm,Perlane,Restylane,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 8:42 pm

One reason why fillers like Restylane and Juvederm have been so successful is because these treatments can be adjusted using an injectable enzyme called hyaluronidase, an egg-based enzyme that works as a sort of “erasure” to modify lumps and bumps that may occur as a result of facial filler treatment.   Individuals with a history of allergies to egg based vaccines should inform their physician prior to treatment with hyaluronic acid fillers.

Some people are nervous about seeking treatment because they’re not sure if they will like their new look and they want to have the option of reversing any undesirable results, or they simply wish to be able to change their mind later.  Still others may be concerned that if they are dissatisfied with a filler treatment that they’ve already had, will they make things even worse by seeking a correction?  These are understandable fears, but fortunately they are largely unfounded.  There is no reason to believe that hyaluronidase will ruin your skin or make matters worse.  Routinely, hyaluronidase is used to adjust hyaluronic acid filler treatments.  While every medical procedure comes with a risk, and while it is possible that you are one of the rare individuals who could experience an allergic reaction, this is not likely.  A reputable cosmetic surgeon can safely make adjustments, and in the unlikely event of a complication, your physician will know what to do.

How did the rumors about hyaluronidase get started?

At first when Juvederm and Restylane were being introduced as valuable cosmetic products, some dermatologists were concerned that some people could potentially have an allergic reaction to the enzyme.  However, as time went on hyaluronidase benefited numerous treatment recipients who sought adjustment, it became clear that this enzyme is a safe way to make sure that treatments with hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm achieve the best results.

Eye plastic surgeons are some of the professionals who use hyaluronidase the most, and they have found the enzyme to be reliable.  Dr. Steinsapir has used this product for over 20 years, and hasn’t seen an allergic reaction yet.  While there is always a chance of a negative response in the body, oculofacial surgeons have integrated the enzyme with hyaluronic acid filler product treatment as if it’s an eraser to modify a treatment after the fact.  Since adjusting filler treatment with hyaluronidase is truly an art form, some less experienced providers are not comfortable with this practice.  It is important to seek treatment from someone whose forte is facial fillers and cosmetic eye treatments.   These days the core specialists in hyaluronic acid are quite comfortable using the enzyme to adjust overfill.

How will I look after my hyaluronidase adjustment?

This depends on your goals and the extent of the adjustment.  In most cases, you’ll want your physician to adjust a highlight, or an area of fullness that detracts from the overall treatment effect to obtain an overall treatment effect.  He or she can do this comfortably and with a high degree of accuracy.  The enzyme can be used essentially until the original filler disappears from the face, so it’s also possible to have the filler broken down completely.  If for any reason you choose to go this route, you can expect to look the same as you always have after giving your body some time to completely heal and for any accompanying swelling to subside.  Generally Dr. Steinsapir does not advocate flooding an area to “erase all the product.”  Instead it is best to sculpt the product and make the most of what has already been placed.  Adjusting the work of other injectors is a reason than many new clients seek out Dr. Steinsapir.

You should never accept filler treatment that is touted as permanent or semipermanent.  This will make it difficult to make adjustments, and it doesn’t account for the changes in the face over time.  Later in life, exactly where and how you need help will change.

If you’ve already been treated with Restylane, Perlane, or Juvederm and feel that your treatment can benefit from some adjustment, don’t simply wait for the product to wear off.  You may have to live with you unsatisfactory results for a full year or more, and after that you will likely be nervous about seeking further help.  Have your treatment adjusted right away so you can see the real and safe benefits of cosmetic facial fillers and realize the benefits of your treatment.

Seeking the Best Filler Treatment Available

If you have already received hyaluronic acid filler injections and seek modification, in most cases you can talk with your treatment provider about revisions.  If you aren’t confident in your doctor’s abilities or do not have a positive relationship with him or her, seek a second opinion from an acclaimed expert in facial fillers with natural results.

Dr. Steinsapir is a world-renowned fillers expert and has served as a physician consultant to Medicis, Inc., the distributor of Restylane and Perlane.  He also invented Deepfill method for placing Restylane, a proven method for correcting dark circles under the eyes.  Those who seek treatment with Dr. Steinsapir are almost always very happy with their initial treatment, but in the event that your filler needs adjustment, Dr. Steinsapir can also provide the service of safely and comfortably adjusting your treatment with confidence.  Contact us today to learn more about how Dr. Steinsapir can assure that your treatment results are natural and customizable to your goals.

September 8, 2010

How do fillers improve my dark circles?

Filed under: Beverly Hills Restylane,eyelid filler,Restylane,restylane in los angeles,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 12:46 am

Dark circles under they eye are a common problem that can affect people of all ages.  Effective treatment must address the root cause of the problem, which is why putting on makeup or a face cream does not resolve the issue.  If you are dissatisfied with your appearance because of under eye hollows that give you a tired, haggard, or sunken appearance, consider how an under eye filler like Restylane can improve your image.

Under Eye Restylane Before and After Photo

Under Eye Restylane Before and After Photo

What is the root problem of my dark circles?

While a number of factors contribute to the dark circles under the eyes, lack of soft tissue volume is one of the most important factors.  What we observe here is a deficiency of subcutaneous fat including the fat just underneath our skin.  Just as too much fat is not attractive or good for our health, neither is too little fat.  As we age, many people find that they have problems with fat distribution over the body, having too much in some areas and too little in others, such as the area around the eyes.

With under eye circles, the concern is deflation of the malar fat pad, which composes much of the cheek soft tissue.  This can happen because of gravity, stress, age, or even our genetic tendency.  Skin optics also contributes to the darkness we associate with the dark circle.  The lower eyelid skin is very thin and immediately lined by a flat muscle just under the skin called the orbicularis oculi muscle.  This muscle helps close the eye and also contributes to the smile lines.  The muscle is dark red.  Light that passes through the skin strikes this dark muscle where the light is absorbed.  With little light bouncing back into the skin, this skin appears dark.  In comparison the skin of the cheek just adjacent to the thin eyelid skin has a layer of yellow fat immediately under the skin.  Light passing into the skin a this point strikes the yellow fat and instead of being adsorbed, it reflects off of the fat helping the overlying skin look lighter.  Dark concealers generally contain reflective material such as mica to increase skin reflectivity or are opaque to block the absorption of light at the skin surface.  Unfortunately these products do not eliminate the shadowing that occurs here because of the lack of volume.

Dark circle treatment that works is available through the midface lift, a surgery that corrects the shift in fat distribution, and also through under eye Restylane, a facial filler that restores the tissue deficiency under the eye.

How do fillers resolve the key issue?

Fillers can resolve the deficiency by taking the place of the fat volume that is supposed to be there.   This corrects the hollowed area by addressing the lack of volume and improving the way that light interacts with the tissue in this area.  We have found that Restylane filler is the most suitable filler here because it is safe and does not tend to clump or migrate.  Since there is so little fat here and the skin is thin, there isn’t tissue for the filler to “hide” behind, which is why it’s so important to choose the right filler.   It is also why it is so important to choose the right cosmetic surgeon to perform your service.

Restylane for under eye bags can be modified with the injection of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acids including Restylane.  This means that if you have a lump or a bump that needs to be adjusted after initial treatment there is a mechanism to permit this adjustment.

How can I find out if filler will help me?

You need a consultation with physician considered one of the top practitioners in correcting dark circles and other cosmetic facial and eye concerns.  Dr. Steinsapir is one of the best cosmetic surgeons in Los Angeles, and he specializes in minimally invasive techniques to enhance your features through natural results.  His practice is one of the few in the world that makes eye hollow treatment a major focus of practice.  To learn more about Dr. Steinsapir’s prestigious educational and experienced background, as well as how safe treatment with under eye Restylane can help you achieve your desired look, contact us today for a no-risk consultation.

August 12, 2010

Will BOTOX help my dark circles?

Filed under: best cosmetic surgeons,Beverly Hills BOTOX,Beverly Hills Restylane,Botox Los Angeles,facial fillers,Restylane,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , , , — admin @ 10:53 am

BOTOX is a great product for the right circumstances.  In order to understand if BOTOX will help the dark circles under your eyes, you need to first know how BOTOX works and what causes dark circles.

BOTOX and Restylane Before and After

BOTOX and Restylane Before and After

Why does BOTOX work?

BOTOX is a naturally-occurring muscle relaxant and a highly purified protein called Botulinum toxin A.  It was originally used by ophthalmologists to treat muscle spasms near the eyes, and from there doctors noticed that those who received treatment had the added benefit of a soft, relaxed, more youthful appearance.  The key reason for this improvement is that BOTOX encourages overactive muscles to relax.  Often worry wrinkles, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and pinched eyebrows are the result of repetitive facial expressions, stress, and these too-active muscles.  By selectively weakening the muscles responsible for these unappealing features with controlled precision, a skilled cosmetic surgeon can restore facial balance and prevent lines from being further “etched” into the skin.

So, now you know what BOTOX does: it relaxes muscles that are too active, and is thus a great remedy for the problems caused by tight muscles.  The next question we must then examine is, What causes the under eye hollow?  After all, effective treatment must address the root cause of the problem.

How did I get dark circles under my eyes?

Dark circles under the eyes are almost always caused by a tissue deficiency.  The dark under eye hollows that many people observe as they age is a problem of imbalanced fat distribution.  Specifically, as the malar fat pad descends, our eyes become hollow and cheek bones may look gaunt, even as our lower face becomes saggy and creased.  The natural fullness under the eyes and in the cheek has suffered from time, gravity, and stress – with the tissue ultimately ending up in the wrong place.

The dark circles that result are actually an optical effect.  The natural tissue under the eye creates a fullness associated with youth, and when light hits our face, the underlying tissue or subcutaneous fat appropriately absorbs the light, and we have a soft, alert, natural appearance.  However, when we have dark circles under our eyes there is not enough fat to interact with the light that hits it.  Instead, the light is absorbed by the dark muscles and blood vessels under the eye, which is what causes the dark area that makes us appear tired and worn out.  You may be full of energy, but as long as you do not have enough tissue just beneath your eyes, they will look hollow. Covering them with makeup, sleeping in late, or taking multivitamins will not correct this look, because in the end you still have not addressed the tissue concern.

Effective Treatment Addresses Underlying Problems

Treating under eye hollows must address the cause.  While BOTOX is a safe and excellent option for many facial concerns and may compliment a dark circle treatment by restoring an overall balance to your face, BOTOX alone is not the answer to resolving your issue with dark circles.  What we have found to be the most effective in this area under eye Restylane, an effective non-surgical approach, and, when surgery is appropriate, a vertical midface lift with a hand-carved orbital rim implant .

The vertical midface lift is a powerful surgery that restores natural balance to your face and resolves the under eye hollow by lifting the soft cheek tissue back into the area under the eye and lower eyelid, where it belongs.  After this procedure, most people find that they not only look more alert instead of worn out, they also look much younger!  The surgery corrects the harsh edges and imbalance of facial tissue that has been brought on by gravity and time.  The reason the results appear so natural is because this cosmetic facial surgery restores your natural facial structure.  For this reason, this approach is often used to address issues from prior unsatisfactory lower eyelid surgery.  Dr. Steinsapir will assess you to determine the best options for your goals.

Deepfill Restylane is Dr. Steinsapir’s method for correcting dark circles.  Dr. Steinsapir developed this minimally invasive, nonsurgical method with those in mind who may not feel they are ready for surgery due to personal reasons.  It is also a great option for those who have less severe hollows.  Restylane is the most effective facial filler in the sensitive area around the eye, making up for the marked tissue deficiency

Finding the Best Advice

The best person to help you understand whether Restylane, a midface lift, BOTOX, or another procedure is right for you is an experienced facial cosmetic surgeon who specializes in these treatments.  We invite you to consult with Dr. Steinsapir, one of the best cosmetic surgeons in Los Angeles who specializes in both oculofacial plastic surgery and minimally invasive cosmetic surgery.  Dr. Steinsapir strives for a natural appearance that takes into account the entire facial balance, obtaining results that work for your individual features.  He has innovated Microdroplet BOTOX and Deepfill Restylane, and he can help you find a treatment plan that is best for you.  Please contact us today to schedule your private consultation.

August 2, 2010

What are the best lasers to improve my dark circles?

Filed under: eyelid filler,facelift alternative,facial fillers,midface lift,Restylane,restylane in los angeles,restylane los angeles,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , , , — admin @ 8:12 pm

People love to talk about lasers and technology, and while lasers are very valuable in many medical procedures, they have a limited place in cosmetic procedures.  Lasers have been touted as a great way to improve skin texture, scars, and even problems like dark circles under the eyes which are actually caused by the skin optics of the lower eyelid.  In actuality, lasers once seemed like a promising technology that failed to deliver on so many promises when it comes to cosmetic treatment.

Under Eye Restylane Before and After Photo

Under Eye Restylane Before and After Photo

There are many potentially disfiguring side effects with laser skin treatments.  For example, CO2 laser resurfacing can cause textural abnormalities and injure the skin’s melanocytes, which causes unsightly hypopigmentation.  Still other methods like fractional laser treatments have such a mild effect that you may or may not even notice a difference.  Furthermore, since laser equipment is so expensive, you end up bearing the high cost as the consumer even when a less expensive treatment may be more effective.  We do not mean to completely devalue lasers; it is of course reasonable and fair that the treatment recipient bears the cost of the medical equipment and procedure, and there are in fact some delicate and truly impressive surgeries that are best done with a laser.  However, when it comes to cosmetic procedures and facial skin treatments, lasers are often not the best choice.

What is the best treatment to improve my dark circles?

Let’s rephrase the original question and consider how to find a more appropriate treatment solution.  Some better questions to ask are, what is causing my dark circles, and what is the best cosmetic treatment to improve them?  This way you allow your physician to diagnose you and help you develop the best treatment plan for your needs, rather than assuming that you already know what will work.  Just as it is a common misconception that lasers are the best method for treating facial skin problems, it is also a misconception that the dark circles or under eye hollows are a problem with skin pigmentation.

In most cases, the dark circles under the eyes that we observe are actually caused by a tissue deficiency.  There is too little subcutaneous (meaning “under the skin”) fat in the under-eye region, which is frequently caused by a descent of the malar fat pad, or soft cheek tissue, over time.  This deficiency creates an optical problem because light hitting the skin is absorbed by the dark red muscle beneath it, rather than a youthful layer of fat.  The tear trough skin here may be too thin also, compounding the problem, but this is not a skin problem you’ll want to “correct” with lasers.  The skin here is very delicate and fragile, and artificially changing its texture through lasers and scarring will not make for a good look.  The key is to address the underlying problem by correcting the subcutaneous deficiency.

The most effective treatments for improving under eye circles depend on the individual, but usually the safe, reliable, and recommended solutions that work best are either a midface lift or undereye Restylane.  The midface lift addresses severe structural concerns and returns sagging tissue to its natural, youthful position, successfully treating the under eye bags and restoring balance to the face.  Restylane under the eyes is a facial filler that corrects the tissue deficiency, and it’s a great option for those with a less pronounced problem or who may not be ready for surgery for personal reasons.  The Restylane filler allows the skin associated with the dark circle to drape differently and this greatly improves how light interacts with the lower eyelid lessening the appearance of the dark circle.

How can Dr. Steinsapir help?

Dark under eye circles are one of the most common concerns that Dr. Steinsapir treats.  His practice is one of just a few in the world that makes the treatment of under eye hollows a major focus of specialization.  Dr. Steinsapir pioneered the midface lift with a hand-carved orbital rim implant, and he also invented the patent-pending treatment method Deepfill Restylane, both of which are impressive and respected solutions for correcting under eye deficiencies.  As a leading expert in cosmetic procedures to address the undereye hollow.  He is a noted lecturer and writer on this subject.  He believes in developing an individualized treatment plan for each individual based on minimally invasive methods with safe and proven results.  Please contact us today to find out how Dr. Steinsapir can correct underlying problems and help you restore your vibrant, youthful appearance.

July 16, 2010

Will skin bleachers help my dark circles?

Filed under: Beverly Hills Restylane,Cosmetic Facial Fillers,Restylane,Restylane Injections,safe cosmetic surgery,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 1:01 pm

Dark circles under the eyes is a problem that is both common and commonly misunderstood.  Dark undereye circle treatment can help, as long as you get the right treatment.  There are a variety of remedies as well as so-called remedies, so finding a qualified cosmetic doctor to accurately diagnose your problem will be crucial in determining the best treatment route.  In many cases, the best solution is an under eye filler like Restylane or surgery like the midface lift to correct the underlying problems.

Undereye Restylane Before and After Photo

Undereye Restylane Before and After Photo

Diagnosis Is Key to Effective Treatment

Many people wonder if a skin bleacher will improve dark circles.  After all, when they look in the mirror they see too much darkness under the eyes, and the logical solution may seem to be simply lightening the skin in this area.  However, in most cases the problem is not too much skin pigment.  This is why if you put on an opaque foundation makeup, you can disguise the problem to some extent, but your under eye area still looks haggard.

The issue of the dark circle is actually optical.  There is too little subcutaneous fat under the eyes, and the tear trough skin in this area is too thin, compounding the problem.  Light penetrates the skin and is then absorbed by the dark red muscle below the thin skin, which normally would be offset by a healthy layer of fat.  Yes, too little fat can be a bad thing, contrary to what popular diet blurbs may tell you – some fat in the face (but not too much) is desirable in order to give the soft appearance associated with youth and beauty.  You can bleach the skin all you want here, but this will not correct the problem, and instead may give you a strange pigmentation effect.

Treatment to Address the Underlying Problem

What we often see in individuals who present with under eye cosmetic problems is a descent of some of the soft cheek tissue known as the malar fat pad, which hollows out the under eye, contributes to the midface groove, and causes excessive fullness in the nasolabial fold.  Correcting these problems should be considered on an individual basis, but most often the best solution is either a midface lift or under eye Restylane.  These treatments address the fundamental problem of the way light interacts with the tissue here.

Restylane restores a natural fullness to the under eye area while allowing the flexibility needed to give precise treatment that is easily adjusted by your doctor should the results be less than ideal.  The midface lift is an excellent option for those with more severe symptoms, while Restylane can still help those who need surgery for dark circles but may be apprehensive for personal reasons.

Skin Bleachers – When to Use Them, and When Not To

Skin bleachers do have their place in cosmetic treatment.  For example, they can be utilized in combination with a chemical peel.  One such use is treatment with an alpha hydroxyl acid to produce smoother skin that, when combined with skin bleachers, has a synergistic effect of lightening the skin.  If you have a problem with hyperpigmentation, then an expert chemical peeler can skillfully use skin bleachers to enhance your appearance.

Skin bleachers are not appropriate when the fundamental problem is not with the color of the skin.  Effective dark circle treatment usually doesn’t involve skin bleachers, because pigmentation is rarely the problem here; rather, the impact of the descending malar fat pad and  the resulting fat deficit impacts your facial optics, and this is what you need to address.

Seek Expert Treatment

Administering under eye fillers is an art form, as is the midface lift.  When you are seeking a cosmetic under eye filler or surgery, you need a facial cosmetic surgeon with the medical training, clinical expertise, experienced specialization, technical skill, and artistic understanding it takes to yield the best results.  We invite you to consult with Dr. Steinsapir, who is one of the few doctors in the world who makes the treatment of dark circles under the eyes a major emphasis of his practice.  Dr. Steinsapir is multi-fellowship-trained in facial cosmetic procedures, and he emphasizes minimally invasive solutions that are proven to work.  Please contact us today to learn more about the best options for your individual concerns.

March 22, 2010

Restylane in Los Angeles: Why Choose Dr. Steinsapir

Filed under: Restylane,restylane in los angeles,Restylane Injections,restylane los angeles,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 9:40 pm

If you are looking for Resytlane in Los Angeles, you have a big decision ahead of you: choosing a doctor.  There are, of course, many physicians practicing in California’s largest city who have pursued a valid pathway to becoming a qualified Restylane injector.  On your search for the best treatment fit for you, please consider Dr. Steinsapir.

Restylane in Los Angeles Before and After Photo

Restylane in Los Angeles Before and After Photo

Dr. Steinsapir has differenitated himself as a lead provider of Restylane injections in many ways.  First, his credentials: Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified ophthalmologist and an associate clinical professor of ophthalmology at the prestigious Jules Stein Eye Institute located at the David Geffen School of Medicine in the UCLA Medical Center – one of the best medical institutions in the world.  Here Dr. Steinsapir specialized his technical, artistic, and clinical expertise in facial cosmetic procedures.  At UCLA he is an esteemed surgeon, researcher, and professor whose leadership in new treatment approaches distinguishes him as a world-renowned eyelid plastic surgeon.

Further, Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified ophthalmologist who was multifellowship-trained in both cosmetic surgery and eye plastic surgery and elected as a Fellow to the prestigious American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – he is one of only a select few physicians in the world with these unique qualifications.

Dr. Steinsapir developed Deepfill™ Restylane®, an advance method to treat dark circles under the eyes by placing Restylane® deep along the orbital rim.  He has received much attention and respect for his published study that details this highly effective method.  This breakthrough treatment is a safe, comfortable way to improve skin optics and nonsurgically correct the undereye circle.  Very few cosmetic surgeons choose the treatment of dark circles and undereye hollows as a major focus of their practice as Dr. Steinsapir does.  In fact, Dr. Steinsapir has been consulted by Medicis, Inc., the distributor of Restylane® and Perlane®, so they could benefit from his expertise.  His treatment has been featured in Harper’s Bazaar magazine.

We realize that these credentials can be a mouthful to take in, so let’s talk about what this means for you.  For work around the eye, we recommend that you find a specialized eyelid plastic surgeon instead of a generalist.  Generalist doctors like board certified general plastic surgeons and dermatologists are preferable for many concerns, but for work on and around the eye – a very sensitive and complex area – it’s a good idea to opt for a specialist whose experience is especially developed for this kind of work.

Dr. Steinsapir is a caring physician who understands that your personal comfort and needs are as important as performing a procedure just right.  This is why he always seeks treatments that are minimally invasive with fast healing times and nonsurgical whenever possible.  In fact, these ideals led Dr. Steinsapir to innovate the Deepfill™ method in the first place.  Dr. Steinsapir spent years perfecting the vertical midface lift through innovation, and during this time he saw another need: while there are many people who need this amazing surgery, not all of them are emotionally prepared to undergo surgery.  They may have had a bad surgical experience in the past, or for another reason their emotional trauma makes them hesitant to seek surgery.  Dr. Steinsapir created a solution through inventing Deepfill™ Restylane®, a practical and nonsurgical method for improving under-eye dark circles and lower eyelid hollows.

Dr. Steinsapir never uses nurses or “physician extenders” to treat you.  He personally performs all treatment himself.  Don’t be fooled into thinking that cosmetic treatments are simple enough to be performed by an assistant under supervision.  Don’t make yourself a part of someone else’s training process.  Dr. Steinsapir, like all reputable surgeons, makes sure that he is available to answer your questions in person and address your concerns individually, rather than directing you to a receptionist or simply brushing you off.  Dr. Steinsapir is not “too busy” to listen and converse with you, and he always takes his time during treatment to make sure it’s the best.  Dr. Steinsapir will also follow up with you after your Restylane treatment in Los Angeles to guide you through the comfortable healing process and address your needs.  If you are looking for a physician who cares, call us today for a no-obligation consultation with Dr. Steinsapir.  He can individualize your treatment plan to help you meet your personal goals.  Have treatment at the time of your consultation if it is right for you.

February 11, 2010

Common Questions about Under Eye Restylane

Filed under: Beverly Hills Restylane,Restylane Injections,restylane los angeles,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 11:19 pm

When do I need under eye Restylane?

You are a good candidate for under eye Restylane treatment if you have dark circles under your eyes or hollow facial features that make your eyes look tired and aged.  Restylane can restore volume under the eyes to give you a naturally youthful, soft, and alert appearance.

undereye Restylane before and after photo

undereye Restylane before and after photo

How long does under eye Restylane last?

Restylane treatments last for an impressive length of time.  You can expect benefits for a year or more.  Your doctor will discuss follow-up treatments with you after assessing your situation and goals.  The long-lasting effect of Restylane are a great convenience.

How is Restylane better than a permanent or fat filler?

Different fillers work great for different needs.  Restylane is usually the best choice for the under eye area because the skin in this region is very thin.  With so little room to hide a permanent filler, the margin for error here is low.  This is why a flexible, easily adjustable filler is essential.  Restylane is exceptionally appropriate for treating dark circles under the eyes because of its smoothness and flexibility.  If you experience any irregularity in the smoothness of your skin after treatment, Restylane is easily adjusted without surgery.

How much Restylane do I need under my eyes?

The average under eye circle each requires about 1 milliliter of Restylane to resolve the problem.  This quantity of course varies up and down depending on the severity and each recipient’s unique facial anatomy.

How much does Restylane cost?

Quality cosmetic treatments aren’t cheap, and you are unlikely to get good results if you seek out the cheapest procedure and provider.   If you are concerned about financing your individualized treatment program, talk to your doctor at your consultation.  Dr. Steinsapir works with patients to find them the best treatment they can afford, and after a no-risk assessment we can give you a precise quote.  Rather than seek partial treatment because of a tight budget, it’s best to completely resolve the issue.

How long is recovery time?

Healing from an under eye restylane treatment is swift, and you can usually resume normal activities within hours of treatment.  You will likely experience mild swelling for thirty to forty hours of treatment.  Both men and women can hide this slight redness immediately or within a few hours with some cover-up makeup.  Brusiing discussed below can also occur which may increase the recovery time.

Are there side effects?

Some degree of bruising occurs in about 20% of Restylane dark circles treatments.  This can range from a barely detectable micro-bruise to, in a few rare cases, a black eye.  Since a black eye fully resolves itself in just two or three weeks, this isn’t considered a serious side effect or barrier to treatment.  Just be sure not to get your treatment the day before your wedding or other event where you may be photographed, and you have little to worry about.

Some people with exceptionally sensitive skin may experience mild tenderness, discomfort, or itching, which resolves itself within a couple days.  Restylane side effects are uncommon and almost always very mild in nature.  The nature of associated side effects is that they will go away quickly on their own.

How can I prevent bruising?

Certain medicines like aspirin and many herbs thin the blood.  Normally this effect is so small that it doesn’t matter, but when you’re receiving Restylane treatment you should avoid these things for about ten days before treatment.  Your doctor can give you a list of drugs, herbs, wines, and so on to avoid.  If you are on a prescription medication, be sure to bring this up with both your cosmetic physician and the doctor who prescribed the medication.  If it’s important for you to take something everyday, you are probably still an excellent candidate for treatment; just realize that your risk for bruising is a little elevated, and that the bruising will go away.

How soon will I see results?

As soon as you leave the office, you will see that the hollows under your eyes have dramatically improved.

Who should give Restylane injections?

Restylane injections require the hand of a skilled specialist who is both qualified and experienced in providing Restylane treatments.  Those who are qualified to provide Restylane treatments include general plastic surgeons (aka board certified general plastic surgeons), fellowship trained eye plastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, and dermatologists.  This doesn’t mean that everyone who can legally treat you is a good choice for what you need.  Restylane is considered a safe, minimally invasive treatment that is very easy on the recipient, but applying Restylane is also the most difficult of under eye treatments, and it demands a highly experienced professional with both skill and an artistic eye.  You need to find a qualified specialist who is comfortable and expert at this type of treatment.

How can I individualize my treatment program?

Our office believes in providing the best boutique care and natural results.  Dr. Steinsapir performs all services himself without relying on assistants.  We believe in approaching each patient as an individual, paying special attention to your health history, your goals and concerns, taking time to listen to your individual concerns with interest and care, and creating an individual plan that will work for you.  Call us today for a no-risk assessment.

January 21, 2010

How often should I get BOTOX and Restylane?

Filed under: Botox Los Angeles,Cosmetic Facial Fillers,Under Eye Restylane — Tags: , , , — admin @ 9:40 am

BOTOX and Restylane are both great solutions for those who wish to improve their facial appearance without undergoing surgery or invasive procedures.  We know them both to be safe,  comfortable procedures that are effective but not permanent.  If you are thinking about receiving treatment, you are probably wondering how often you’ll need it.  This is a great question that we will address in a moment, but first, please slow down and realize that you don’t have to decide right now how often you’d like to be treated or even definitively opt for any follow-up treatments.  We will give you some general guidelines, but exactly how often you’ll need treatment depends on individual circumstances and personal preferences.

Microdroplet Botox and undereye Restylane before and after photo

Microdroplet Botox and undereye Restylane before and after photo

Restylane, the preferred undereye filler for delicate areas like the undereye hollow, is long-lasting and typically retains great results for one to two years. BOTOX results generally last about four months and some benefits are still apparent after five months.  These are guidelines, not rules; results will vary based on your individual anatomy, treatment plan, and your own perception.

Ultimately, it’s up to you.

Dr. Steinsapir recommends a simple mirror test to his patients.  No, we don’t mean the one you may have heard of that instructs you to smile and look for lines (some lines, as previously discussed, are both natural and desirable).  This test is as follows: if you don’t notice anything issues in the mirror, then you don’t need further BOTOX or Restylane treatments at this time.  But if what you see starts to bother you – maybe you’re brushing your teeth and notice that you’re less satisfied with your appearance – then it’s time for retreatment.  This means that some patients come in to receive BOTOX treatment every two and a half months, because they don’t want to see a single effect wear off, while others come in merely once a year because they only just noticed an appearance they would like to treat again. We encourage you to find your comfort level and what makes sense for your personal goals.

I want precise guidance in scheduling my next treatment.

Perhaps you’re an actor, model, or just a busy mom; perhaps there’s another reason why you want objective advice about when to receive your next treatment.  Your doctor can help you decide how often you should receive treatment.  Objectively, it will probably be about once every four months for BOTOX, and once every year for Restylane.  Your doctor is a great resource for objective advice.  Your friends and loved ones may prefer to compliment you rather than give you honest feedback when you ask how your treatment is holding up.  If how others perceive you is a very important part of your treatment, discuss this with your doctor.

You can always modify your treatment plan later.

So relax!  If you are anxious about your first consultation or treatment because you worry that you might be “getting into more than you bargained for,” remember that you don’t have to sign away your life at a consultation, and a reputable, ethical practitioner won’t pressure you into signing up for some “blue plate special.”  BOTOX and Restylane are low-risk cosmetic treatments not only because of how rare complications are, but also because the results aren’t permanent.  Yes, they are effective, but you have no reason to worry that these services will “make you age faster.”  Few drugs are as well studied as BOTOX and the hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane.  You may want to view your first treatment as a trial; if you like it, as most people do, then you can continue with treatments according to your needs as discussed with your physician.  If you don’t, then leave it at that.

A consultation, not a commitment.

It’s always wise to consult with a trustworthy doctor before committing to any treatment plan.  First, you need to find out if the procedure you have in mind is actually appropriate to your needs.  Then you of course must make sure you feel at ease with your potential cosmetic physician.  The reliable yet flexible nature of BOTOX and Restylane make these ideal products for anyone hesitant to make a permanent change, and they are also great for those seeking long-term treatments they can count on.

Dr. Steinsapir believes in natural Restylane and BOTOX results and in providing caring, honest feedback that is tailored toward your needs.  This means that you will never be pressured into more than you need or want.  At your individualized consultation, Dr. Steinsapir will ask about your goals and other personal circumstances to help you come up with the best course of action.  Remember to keep communication open with whomever you choose as your doctor to ensure that your needs are met at the times that are right for you.  Dr. Steinsapir meets with you personally for your consultation and, when you’re ready, personally performs your service, not a nurse or a technician.

Dr. Steinsapir is a leading practitioner of BOTOX and Restylane treatments.  He trained alongside the inventor of BOTOX and has since been helping Los Angeles BOTOX recipients achieve satisfying results.  He invented Microdroplet BOTOX and Deepfill Restylane methods.  Call us today for a consultation to learn how BOTOX and Restylane treatments can meet your needs through an individualized program.

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