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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

The reason you can’t buy BOTOX® and Restylane® yourself is not because these are considered dangerous products – by all standards they have proven themselves to be very safe.  But just as you do not draw your own blood at home for a routine medical checkup and instead go to a safe, clean facility to receive help from experts who have many resources at hand, it is a very bad idea to perform such a delicate procedure on yourself, especially without training, education, and years of experience.

Unfortunately, a few poorly-administered BOTOX® cases have undermined many people’s trust in a procedure that can help them cosmetically and medically, and these cases are usually the result of either an unusually inexperienced person like a technician or assistant administering the procedure instead of a doctor or someone shopping around until they find a doctor willing to do whatever they ask even when they want procedures that are not right for them.

But Don’t I Know My Body Best?

You are probably familiar with your own body and its uniqueness in ways no one living outside your body can feel without experiencing it themselves.  You also probably have a vision of what you would like to change.  These are not obstacles and do not contradict the role of your plastic surgeon.  Doctors study the latest technology, research, and treatments for many years in a highly competitive environment and they learn not only about anatomy and healing, but also what to do in rare instances of complications, and how to individually approach each case in ways that may not be obvious to the layperson.  Beyond this they complete residencies, fellowships, research projects, and professorships.  Add to this years of practical experience in the field working with actual patients, and they have now obtained a wide body of knowledge that is impossible to learn by reading an article (or even several articles!) online.

When doctors emphasize the importance of working with a qualified professional instead of relying on self-diagnoses and home remedies, they mean that it’s optimal to bring your concerns to a doctor who will listen to you and consider all that you have to say so that doctor can provide honest feedback about technical and clinical aspects of what you need, sometimes advising a solution that you may not even have been aware of as an option, or sometimes admonishing you against a procedure for health concerns of which you might not have been aware.  There are subtle differences in treatment approaches that require a physical examination along with a consultation, and this kind of insight cannot be gleaned from the internet, a numbered list of instructions, or even by looking in the mirror.

Sometimes one problem can look a lot like another that requires a different treatment – it’s vital that a physician help you distinguish these from one another.  Your doctor is not there to take control of your wishes, but to communicate with you so you both learn from each other in different ways and come to agree on the best course of action.  Your doctor will then act with the precision and knowledge that can only be derived from education, experience, and skill.

How Will My Doctor Understand Exactly What I Want?

By being careful to keep communication open, complete, and honest, you can get exactly what you need.  Keep in mind that it is your responsibility as much as your doctor’s to thoroughly discuss your needs, concerns, and medical history.  He or she will have a variety of approaches ranging from examining you to asking questions to discussing how you feel about different photos.  This way your doctor can get an accurate knowledge of your goals, and you can ask for your doctor’s advice and explain your concerns directly.  Your doctor also has the advantage of being able to spot patient requests that, based on experience, will likely lead to disappointment.  If you insist that an unadvised procedure be performed, you may be able to find someone who will do what you say, but you will likely regret this in the end and are better off talking to the doctor in more detail about your reservations and learning why he thinks one solution will work better than another.

Why Can’t I Create Perfect Results by Myself?

No doctor learns to administer a delicate procedure like BOTOX® and Restylane® injections by reading a simplified list of instructions or watching a five-minute video on a web page.  Bodies are more complex than that, as are the variations between individual bodies.  What lies under the facial skin is more complex than most imagine, with different kinds of tissues and many diverse muscles there, and it’s crucial to have a thorough knowledge of not only where these anatomical parts lie and how to work with or around them, but also how the thousands of components interact with each other.

You cannot simply eye your face and plunge in a syringe here and there until you think it looks good.  This is a great way to set yourself up for asymmetrical results and become one of those rare people who experience complications, like lumping, “frozen” features, or excessive bruising and swelling.  You could even end up giving yourself a complication completely unassociated with these products; for example if you don’t have training about stringent sanitation, you could cause an infection.  Further, it’s important to realize that, even though benefits can be immediate, the final results will not be seen right away because there will always be a certain amount of healing time.  Only a doctor who has closely observed and helped many people heal will understand how the results will change over the next few days and weeks will recognize the face’s optimal response during treatment.

What If I Can’t Afford It?

Usually when something sounds too good to be true it unfortunately is, especially in reference to intricate valuables carrying unbelievably low prices.  BOTOX® and Restylane® treatments are expensive.  The service of an expert cosmetic surgeon is not free and then the products are expensive.  It may be tempting to order Chinese Botulinum toxin or Restylane from a Canadian pharmacy.  The price may be enticing.  However, it is generally illegal to ship these products into the United States.  They may be confiscated and you may be subject to violating Federal import laws.  If your product does not get confiscated you may not get what you paid for.  Many of these products are counterfeit and contain adulterants rather than the medication they claim to be.  This is truly a buyer beware situation.   No ethical doctor will treat you will a syringe of products you bring into the office yourself.  The bottom line is that if you can’t afford treatment, you are better off not doing anything at all.  In fact, you will be much more likely to encounter larger expenses when you need your at-home experiment corrected by a specialized professional.

A Complex Treatment

BOTOX® and Restylane® treatments are not the same as giving oneself a “shot.”  If it were so easy, there would not be entire practices specializing in their optimal administration and so much research devoted to improving every detail of their use.  For example, Dr. Steinsapir invented the Microdroplet™ BOTOX® method which consistently yields remarkable results, and this is not something you can “pick up” online.  This minimally invasive procedure requires specialized skills.  Save yourself a potential disaster by ignoring anyone who claims you can do your own BOTOX® and Restylane® treatments.

Improvement through Individualized, Experienced, Professional Care

Dr. Steinsapir is a world leader in BOTOX® and Restylane® treatments, specializing in procedures that improve the face to restore a rejuvenated, natural look as non-invasively as possible.  He has pioneered inventions like Microdroplet™ BOTOX® and Deepfill™ Restylane®.  Call us today to learn more about Dr. Steinsapir’s Restylane and BOTOX® specializations.

Each product has a somewhat different role in facial volumizing.  The right choice for you very much depends on your issues.  This is best determined by an individual consultation with a highly qualified cosmetic surgeon.  Here are some general guidelines and common usages that can give you an idea of when each filler tends to be appropriate, but individualized treatment never takes a one-size-fits-all approach and diagnosis and treatment planning must be done in person.

Before and After: Restylane, Botox and Perlane by Dr. Steinsapir

What’s the Difference between Perlane® and Restylane®?

Both Perlane® and Restylane® are fillers that work especially well when volumizing the face to give it a softer, more youthful look and restore hollow and deflated areas.  Perlane® is a thicker material than Restylane® and it usually lasts a few months longer.  This is an amazing length of time as Restylane can be effective for a year or more.  Restylane® usually works better for the sensitive area under the eye where the skin is thin and there is little fat.  The ability of the Restylane to be readily shaped once it is placed in the tissue means that many potential irregularities can be resolved as the material is placed.  For the same reason, Restylane is also excellent at the lip edge.  Elsewhere in the face, there is much better tissue coverage for the placement of the slightly thicker Perlane®.

Perlane® has a larger molecular structure that Restylane and as a results it is a somewhat better volumizer than Restylane®.  It is preferred in areas like the cheeks, eyebrow, chin, and the tissues around the mouth called the perioral area. Why does it work best in these areas?  Because these areas have more fat to work with than the lower eyelid dark circle.  Perlane®’s thickness necessitates that it be placed deeper than Restylane®, while Restylane® works very well near the surface of the skin and in areas where little fat is present.  Perlane® is wonderful for adding volume to places with more fat under which a doctor can place this filler.  It is less ideal for the lip edge and under eye area where the Restylane serves as a better choice.

Because of both their similarities and differences, Restylane® and Perlane® can be used together to improve the facial aesthetics by eliminating unsightly angles, sunken features, and haggard looks.  For example, Perlane® can be placed in the top of the cheek at the time that Restylane® is used to treat the dark circles in the lower eyelid hollows.  Both of these actions are beneficial in themselves, and when used together they amplify the improvements even more.

What If I’m Unhappy with My Results?

These services are the fastest growing cosmetic services because of how happy people are with the results.  Yet service is not a magic wand and it is sometimes necessary for a treatment to be adjusted.  First make certain that your doctor is aware of your concerns.  If you are having an issue, don’t simply wait until your next visit.  It is a good idea to contact your doctor and let them know what is going on.  There is often a great deal of value in being seen early if there is some issue.  By consulting with your doctor after a procedure, these issues can be readily addressed.

Unlike other fillers, hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane® and Perlane® can be adjusted after treatment to resolve any surface irregularities that might be present after treatment.   In fact, it is possible to modify these treatments even if it has been quite some time since you were treated.  Over time, these products are absorbed by the body and eventually disappear over a year or two.

Seeking the Right Doctor

Dr. Steinsapir specializes in improving the face in both aesthetic and medically necessary situations.  As a specialist he has some of the highest levels of experience in addressing concerns about the face, including how to best apply fillers like Perlane®.  In fact, Dr. Steinsapir has served as a physician consultant to Medicis, Inc., who distributes both Perlane® and Restylane®, and he is considered among the top 3% users of these products.  He is thought to have the largest under eye filler practice in the World.  Call for a consultation to find out if you are a good candidate for Perlane®, including whether it will improve upon another procedure or could be combined with Restylane® treatment.  Dr. Steinsapir approaches everyone as an individual, customizing treatment to each person’s needs.  Contact us today to find out how he can customize treatment for you.

Under Eye Circles Before and After

Restylane is easily adjusted after treatment should an adjustment become necessary and it can be done in a non-invasive manner without surgery.  In the rare case that Restylane does not settle right, it can be easily adjusted with just a tiny injection of hyaluronidase, a safe enzyme that breaks down and softens Restylane.

It is unlikely there will be a complication because Restylane’s thickness keeps it from forming lumps the way other fillers sometimes do in the most sensitive areas.  If irregularities do occur, they can be adjusted using the hyaluronidase.  The thickness of Restylane keeps the filler in place in the lower eyelid and upper cheek regions so your results will be long lasting and remain natural looking.  After treatment, Restylane is very effective and usually lasts one to two years.  Because the procedure only requires office based injections and can yields ideal results, many people choose to have periodic Restylane treatments rather than surgery.  What’s best for you will depend on your particular needs based on an evaluation by an experienced doctor.

Bruising

Most people, about 80%, do not experience bruising after a Restylane treatment; the other 20% experience some degree of bruising.  Most of them have mild bruising, but a very few (one or two in a hundred) will form a black eye.  The black eye takes two to three weeks to completely resolve, and this is a cosmetic concern without health dangers.  Considering that Restylane will last over a year, the recovery process is very mild and comfortable even for these few.  The few Restylane recipients who experience bruising usually feel that the short-lived bruise was worth the long-term results.  It’s a good idea to obtain treatment at least three weeks before big events like vacations and weddings just to be completely certain that your pictures will turn out great.

To minimize your risk of bruising, your doctor will ask you to stop taking certain medications that thin the blood, such as aspirin.  If you are taking anything prescribed by a doctor, we strongly advise that you consult with the physician who prescribed it before discontinuing the medication.  If your doctor suggests that you continue the medication, this does not mean that you aren’t a good Restylane candidate.  If you are willing to be at a slightly elevated risk for bruising, Restylane can fill in the hollows under your eyes very effectively.  Your regular doctor and your cosmetic specialist can help you decide the best route to take.

What If I’m Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

There is no foreseeable complication that could be caused by Restylane, a naturally occurring sugar gel.  It has proven itself to be very safe.  The problem with using it to treat pregnant and nursing women is simply that we have no clinical information regarding the safety of this product in pregnancy and during lactation.  Could Restylane cause a problem for your baby?  This is unlikely.  The sugar gel in Restylane occurs naturally in the body.  Many medications and treatments are not advised for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers simply because they have not been tested, and probably will never be – this does not mean that they’re not safe.  It simply means that ethical practitioners recommend that you don’t take any chances when it comes to untested situations.  We recommend you wait until you wean your baby before undergoing cosmetic procedures.   Fortunately, babies do not nurse forever, so you won’t have to wait too long for the long-lasting benefits of Restylane.

My Eyes Are Sensitive.  Can I Still Benefit from Restylane?

This may sound paradoxical, but depending on the sensitivity you may be especially qualified for Restylane.  If you have allergies, the likelihood of a reaction is extremely small but not quite zero (there is always some risk of a reaction to any medical procedure that introduces something new into the body) and can best be assessed by an oculoplastic surgeon.  If your eyes are sensitive to things like hay fever, for example, and they become irritated or red easily, this aggravation may accentuate the hollows under your eyes.  If you know you are prone to this appearance, a filler like Restylane will be very helpful, because during times of sensitivity, your eyes will look much better with treatment than without it.

Recovery Time

Many of Dr. Steinsapir’s patients resume their normal activities just after leaving the office.  If you don’t bruise, there will be about thirty to forty hours during which you experience minimal swelling.  Many patients, both men and women, can hide this swelling right away with a camouflage makeup that matches their skin color.  If your lower eyelid skin quality is poor and you often collect a small bag of puffiness under the eye, the doctor may counsel you regarding the need to consider a procedure like a chemical peel or surgery prior to getting regular filler treatments so that you don’t experience prolonged recovery after each filler service.  This can be discussed when you have your initial consultation.

Can I Combine Restylane with Another Procedure?

Yes.  Restylane can be safely combined with many procedures.  Discuss your concerns with your physician.  He or she will advise you about which procedures compliment Restylane treatments.  Your doctor may advise you to come in on another day for certain procedures that are especially sensitive to changes in the treatment area, but there are many cases when Restylane can be appropriately combined with another procedure at once.  Restylane is a simple outpatient service that can be done while you’re fully awake in the office after numbing cream has been applied to the treatment area.

Consult with a Doctor Who Cares

Dr. Steinsapir invented and published the Deepfill™ method for placing Restylane®. Deepfill™  method is used by thousands of doctors around the world to inject Restylane® safely in the under eye area.  This method adds precision and certainty to the placement filler in this location making this minimally invasive method a true alternative to lower eyelid surgery for many people.  Dr. Steinsapir is one of very few cosmetic surgeons who dedicate a major focus of his practice to treating dark circles and under eye hollows, making him particularly experienced and qualified as a specialist.

Contact us today for a personalized consultation with a caring physician who individualizes each treatment based on your specific concerns.