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March 28, 2011

I had Restylane service 6 months ago and still have lumps. Can anything be done about this?

Filed under: Beverly Hills Restylane,facial fillers,hyaluronic acid fillers,oculoplastic surgery,Perlane,Restylane,restylane in los angeles,Restylane Injections,restylane los angeles — Tags: , , , , , , , , — admin @ 12:13 pm

Restylane is a long-lasting but not permanent facial filler that is especially suitable for improving facial contours due to its natural-looking results, even in sensitive areas like dark circles under the eyes, and offers the ability to modify your results in the few cases when treatment isn’t completely satisfactory.  The enzyme hyaluronidase makes Restylane injections easily adjustable to a more desired aesthetic, and your doctor can even erase the treatment completely if you determine together that this is your best option.

When we hear from individuals who had dissatisfactory Restylane service long in the past, what is most disconcerting is that the individual was not aware that they could seek a simple adjustment from the start, or that they were not comfortable returning to their original cosmetic surgeon for this procedure.  This may indicate a problem in communication between the provider and the individual receiving services—and while this could simply be a lack of personality compatibility, it’s crucial that you are comfortable openly talking with your doctor about your treatment and any concerns that may arise.

Seeking the Best Restylane Services

While Restylane is considered a safe and routine procedure enjoyed by many who experience its benefits, this does not at all indicate that providing Restylane is an unskilled task.  You should always seek treatment from a leading and qualified provider such as Dr. Steinsapir, who is a cosmetic surgeon and oculoplastic surgeon with a major specialization of his practice being Restylane, including under-eye Restylane.  Your doctor must understand the subtleties of safely placing Restylane for natural results as well as how to adjust it should you have the need, and he or she must understand how Restylane and your facial anatomy interact to a level that could be called an art form.  Your doctor must also understand how to seamlessly adjust your Restylane treatment through comfortable hyaluronidase treatment.

Modifying Your Restylane Results

In the event that you experience lumps or unwanted effects from your Restylane treatment, hyaluronidase makes it easy to adjust hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane.  In most cases its best to return to your original doctor who should be eager to make sure you are happy with your treatment and outcomes.  However, if you are concerned about the skill level of your original provider who may not have specialized in facial fillers, or if you are experiencing a breakdown in communication and lack confidence seeking further direction and treatment from this individual, then you may wish to consider seeking a second opinion.

Dr. Steinsapir often sees individuals dissatisfied with treatment received elsewhere, and in many cases he can help you to restore the relationship with your original doctor.  If this is not possible, then you can seek adjustment and further treatments from someone else like Dr. Steinsapir.  It’s very important that you are comfortable with these decisions and are empowered with knowledge and a good communication rapport with your doctor to ensure best results.  If you have been waiting as long as six months to find out if your experience with Restylane is normal and if you can have your results adjusted, we are sorry to hear that you have been needlessly stressed.  Fortunately, Restylane can be adjusted and you may learn that when your treatment is customized and delivered with great skill and precision, impressive results are possible.

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 Bevery 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.

December 13, 2010

Could I be allergic to Juvederm?

Filed under: Beverly Hills Restylane,facial fillers,Juvederm,Restylane,Restylane Injections,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 12:07 pm

Just as it’s possible but rare to have an allergic reaction to Restylane as we recently discussed, it is also possible but rare to have an allergic reaction to Juvederm.  Why do we mention both Restylane and Juvederm here?  These facial fillers are each hyaluronic acid fillers, so they share properties that make them both very safe; however, in the unlikely event that you are allergic to one, then you are probably allergic to the other.  Whenever you consider undergoing any medical procedure, you should be mindful that there is always some degree of risk involved.  This is why it’s especially important to have an open conversation with your doctor about your circumstances and medical history to best determine whether you are one of the many people who can benefit from facial fillers.

If you have a history of any of the following, carefully discuss them with your doctor, as they indicate that Juvederm is probably not right for you, and instead you should consider one of other safe treatment options.  According to the Juvederm webpage, you should not use Juvederm injectable gel if you have:

•    Severe allergies with anaphylaxis
•    Allergies to gram-positive bacterial proteins
•    Allergies to lidocaine

Allergic reactions to Juvederm are so rare that no testing is recommended prior to treatment, but remember rare events do happen.  The best thing to do is consider the benefits against your personal risk factors.  The good news is, hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm are safe for the overwhelming majority of people.

Thinking about the Best Filler for You
Juvederm was the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler to be approved by the FDA for addressing facial folds, lines, and volume deficiencies.  It remains an excellent product to this day.  However, we’ve found that Restylane’s flow characteristics usually make it more suitable for certain facial treatments such as treating dark circles under the eyes.  This is because Restylane’s higher viscosity (basically its “thickness”) helps to keep the filler correctly placed around the undereye area.  Both Juvederm and Restylane are readily adjustable by your cosmetic surgeon, both last about the same amount of time, and both are considered safe products.  The key is in determining which cosmetic approach is best for your individual needs and then receiving a customized treatment.

Expert Consulting in Facial Fillers
If you are seeking to improve your looks and build confidence by treating facial concerns like wrinkles, hollowness, folds, and dark circles, consider how treatment with a hyaluronic acid filler or another procedure like the midface lift may help.  The only way to find out what is the best and safest treatment for you is to consult with a highly experienced and qualified doctor who can go over your medical history and current needs with you in detail, then custom-plan a treatment approach that meets your goals.  Dr. Steinsapir is a world leader in facial filler treatments, with an emphasis on minimally invasive technique that look completely natural.  To start thinking about the best way to achieve you desired aesthetic, contact us today for your no-risk consultation.

November 19, 2010

What happens to my facial fat grafts when I gain weight?

Filed under: best cosmetic surgeons,beverly hills facelift,Beverly Hills Restylane,facial fillers,fat grafting,Juvederm,Restylane,restylane in los angeles,Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , , — admin @ 2:21 pm

Overview

Facial filler treatments and fat grafting can be excellent ways to soften the facial features by correcting imbalances and deficiencies in facial fat distribution.  Your decision to pursue fat grafting treatment is one you should carefully consider with your doctor, as there are multiple options for achieving your desired look, and the solution that’s best for you will depend on variables like your medical history, present condition, and treatment goals.  Like other treatment options available today, fat grafting is particularly suited for some individual’s needs, while for others there may be other more suitable options.

Fat Grafts and Changes in Weight

If your weight changes just a little, you probably won’t notice much difference in your treatment results.  If you have significant changes in weight, though, you could see some differences in the form of increased facial volume.  This is important to consider before opting for fat grafts.  While you probably aren’t planning on gaining weight, you and your doctor should take into account the likelihood of weight fluctuations given your medical history and current lifestyle.

So what can you expect with changes in weight?  This depends on the individual, but with small changes in weight there is generally little change in the fat graft volume.  However, with an increased weight and body fat, the grafts also increase in volume like the fat compartment from which they were removed.  For example, when the body fat increases 10% or more, the grafted fat also significantly increases in volume.

While the effects of most facial cosmetic surgery eventually diminish over time, it’s important to recognize that fat grafting does yield long-term results.  This is a great benefit for those who seek long-term change, but there are also times when the nature of this treatment can result in an unsatisfactory result even years after the original fat grafting procedure.

Achieving the Best Long-Term Results

In an ideal world we will all of course adopt a healthy, active lifestyle that includes good nutrition and keeps your weight at a stable place where your body works best.  But the reality is that most Americans gain about one pound of weight per year.  While most qualified cosmetic surgeons can comfortably adjust and even reverse treatments with Restylane and other hyaluronic acid fillers, correcting the facial contour after fat grafting is not so simple or straightforward.

These tendencies lead many cosmetic surgeons to favor the new facial fillers—like undereye Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm—for most patients.  These fillers do not last as long as fat grafts, but they are very popular and effective because they are safe, provide benefit without the necessity of surgery, can be adjusted with the enzyme hyaluronidase, and have science-based, proven results.

Does this mean that fat grafting is wrong for you?  Not necessarily—fat grafting is an excellent option for certain situations on a person-to-person basis, just as facial fillers and other procedures like the facelift work well for many individuals.  You will need to consult with an experienced cosmetic surgeon before making a final decision that is right for you.

Experience Counts; Consult with the Best

Dr. Steinsapir is a leader in cosmetic facial fillers and other cosmetic facial treatments and surgeries.  In fact, he has served as a physician consultant to Medicis, Inc. (Perlane’s and Restylane’s distributor).  He has developed Deepfill Restylane, the world-renowned method of treating dark circles under the eyes.  His practice emphasizes minimally invasive treatment methods that are customized for the individual’s unique situational needs, with the aim of fast healing time and natural results.  For more information on how Dr. Steinsapir can help you determine your best treatment options, contact us today.

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 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 19, 2010

I am thinking of getting lip filler but I am afraid of getting my lips overdone.

Filed under: lip augmentation,lip fillers,lip injections,Restylane,Restylane Injections — Tags: , , , , , , — admin @ 3:07 pm

Lip augmentation is a great option for those with thinning lips, aging lips, lip lines, or volume deficiencies.  Lip fillers have the ability to change your appearance from aging and ordinary to youthful and sensual.  It’s surprising what a difference full lips can make on the face, which is why so many people overlook the important role their lips play when they consider how to improve their appearance.  Don’t forget that we use our lips to smile, speak, kiss, eat, and express ourselves.  The full lips associated with youth and beauty can make a great difference in how others perceive us and how we feel about ourselves.  Both men and women can benefit from lip fillers, provided that both the individual and the doctor determine that this is a suitable treatment option.

Lip Filler Before and After Photo

Lip Filler Before and After Photo

One major reason great candidates for lip fillers hesitate to seek treatment is because they worry about getting their lips overfilled.  Thanks to media hypes, sitcoms, and a few publicized incidents of poor judgment, this is a common concern.  The truth is that with just a bit of foresight and planning, you needn’t worry about overdoing your lip filler treatment.  There are many fillers available, and the ones best for the lips are very forgiving, enabling your doctor to easily adjust the treatment should you be unhappy with your results.

How Can I Avoid Overdoing My Lips?

Seeking nonsurgical cosmetic treatment for the lips should be an extremely rewarding, low-risk experience as long as you do some research first and choose your doctor with care.  First, let’s look at some filler options.

With so many fillers available on the market today – Restylane, Radiesse, Perlane, Juvederm, Artefill, Sculptra, Matridex, and even silicone oil, to name a few – that have all been used as lip fillers, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the options.  However, not all of these fillers should be used as lip fillers under normal circumstances.  Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane, Juvederm, and Perlane are much more suitable for lip augmentation than permanent and semi-permanent fillers.  This is because they are much more forgiving, do not tend to lump, and can be simply and easily adjusted with the enzyme hyaluronidase.  Should you be dissatisfied with your treatment for any reason, experience an irregularity, or simply change your mind about what kinds of goals you have for your appearance, this enzyme can be injected to modify your treatment.

We have found that Restylane is usually the best fillers for lip volume deficiencies.  This is because the lips are very sensitive and can irregularities that may arise from treatment.  Fortunately, Restylane doesn’t tend to form bumps, and an experienced physician specialist can skillfully place Restylane for natural looks and long-term benefits.

I think I’ve already had too much lip augmentation.

Resolving this issue of course depends on the nature of the problem and the type of filler you received.  If you were treated with something like silicone oil, there is both good and bad news: this is a permanent filler.  If you like your results, that’s great, and you can expect them to last basically forwever.  If you don’t, well, it is virtually impossible to improve the lip.  Receiving treatment with a long-term filler is somewhat of a gamble because the long-term fillers have been shown to be less reliable than a filler like Restylane, and if you are discontent with your outcome then it’s harder to reverse.

If you feel you’ve had too much of a hyaluronic filler, adjustment will be very easy.  You can usually return to your original doctor to resolve the problem, unless the relationship has deteriorated or you are not confident in your original doctor’s skill level in regards to lip treatment.  In such cases, you should seek a second opinion.

If you were treated with a long-term filler like Sculptra or Matridex, treatment will be more challenging.  You may be able to a receive a saline injection to try to break up the filler.  In some cases excision is indicated as an appropriate treatment.  This will depend on the severity, location, and nature of your irregularity or other concern.

It’s possible that you are early from your treatment and simply experiencing some normal swelling.  Give yourself time to heal.  Wait a couple of weeks to let the swelling settle before evaluating whether or not your lip treatment was excessive.  If you have a bruise, you are likely experiencing swelling and need to let things settle down a bit before deciding to seek an adjustment.

How do I prevent a problem with my lip filler?

With some basic understanding of lip fillers and a carefully chosen cosmetic surgeon in Los Angeles to perform your nonsurgical cosmetic treatment lip filler, you really don’t need to worry about regretting your treatment decision.  Weigh your options with potential doctors and be sure to ask many questions about what filler he or she recommends, and how easy it is to modify treatment in the off-chance that you’re dissatisfied with it.  For example, you can feel great about a Restylane lip filler treatment because it has a strong history of working well as an ideal lip filler.  The benefits of Restylane can last for over a year, yet you needn’t worry that you’ll be stuck with results you don’t like because Restylane is both modifiable and not permanent.

Even more important than exactly what filler goes into your lips is the doctor you choose.  Find a cosmetic doctor with whom you are comfortable.  Your doctor should specialize in facial cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical facial treatment and be extremely knowledgeable about facial fillers.  You should feel at ease around your doctor and confident in his or her abilities.  How can you be confident?  Look into your doctor’s credentials, areas of specialization, experience record, and unretouched before and after photos.  What your doctor says should make sense to you.  Further, your doctor should personally perform all of your treatments without passing this job to an assistant or “physician extender.”

Dr. Steinsapir is a cosmetic surgeon in Beverly Hills who specializes in minimally invasive treatments and is an expert in facial fillers.  In fact, he has served as a physician consultant to Medicis, Inc., who distributes Restylane and Perlane.  He is widely considered a leader in facial fillers because of his innovative methods like Deepfill Restylane, extensive experience, and practical artistic skill.  He is widely respected and a Clinical Associate Professor at UCLA in oculofacial surgery.  Please call us today for a consultation to find out how Dr. Steinsapir’s lip filling techniques can refresh your 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.

May 24, 2010

Skin needling – is it the answer?

Filed under: Cosmetic Facial Fillers,facial fillers,Restylane,Restylane Injections,restylane los angeles,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 11:19 pm

Skin needling is often a do-it-yourself treatment wherein you use hundreds of tiny needles to puncture your skin, usually with a roller after a low-strength numbing cream is applied.  This is supposed to increase collagen production in your skin to remove wrinkles, erase scars, eliminate cellulite, and reverese hair loss.  Proponents say that this makes it easier for your skin to absorb lotions like face creams and stimulate healing, allowing your skin to repair itself.  This sounds like a revolutionary treatment, but unfortunately all of these claims are unproven.

Separating Fact from Fiction
Skin needling is marketed very persuasively, and we’re not going to dispute their claims.  There may be some benefits to this treatment, but the concern is that these claims are not supported by scientific data.  When this is the case, it can be very difficult to evaluate treatment claims without extensive training and experience in the practice of medicine.  One should be especially wary of products for sale that claim to cure a wide variety of unrelated conditions or offer results that seem miraculous.  Can skin needling really eliminate your winkles, remove your scars, and reverse your hair loss?  We can’t say no with certainty because there’s always the off-chance that someone somewhere might experience this, but we can confirm that there is no hard evidence to back this up.  A treatment advertised as a great deal isn’t ever a good use of your money if it can’t deliver the results you need.  That’s why it’s crucial to find a trusted cosmetic surgeon who can help you sort through all the smoke and mirrors.  For example, a trustworthy doctor will recognize camera tricks in before and after photos to evaluate the actual results.

Alternative, Proven Treatments
We do not mean to say that new treatments lack validity or promise; in fact, Dr. Steinsapir has been a leading cosmetic surgeon and researcher in finding new, better ways to treat people.  Technology is rapidly changing and improving, but that does not mean we have no good reason to value one new treatment over another; if a solution has a sound scientific foundation and subsequent studies to back it up, it may be considered an emerging field with strong credibility.  Dr. Steinsapir has seen fads come and go, and he has also seen new treatments being researched, developed, and then ultimately become a respected medical practice here to stay.  He has been on the forefront of developing and perfecting treatment methods like the midface lift, Restylane as a facial filler, and the chemical peel – all of which can be great facial cosmetic treatments depending on your needs.  And, as a peer reviewer of major cosmetic surgery and ophthalmology journals, he understands how to interpret raw data from a study in ways that media reporters cannot.

What you need will depend on your goals, your situation, and the severity of your concerns.  Cosmetic surgery and other cosmetic treatments for the face that are established as proven treatments are usually the best options to address problem areas in the face.  A trusted physician will be able to evaluate your condition and develop an individual treatment plan for you – because let’s face it, we all look different!

Choosing a Doctor Who Cares

If you are seeking the best facial plastic surgeon in Los Angeles, we invite you to consider how Dr. Steinsapir can address your needs.  He personally performs all treatments at his practice of cosmetic surgery in Beverly Hills rather than turning you over to an assistant, intern, or nurse, and he furthermore only relies on treatments with sound scientific basis and a proven treatment record – both in medical journals and reflected in the satisfaction of individuals he’s treated.  Call us today to schedule your no-risk consultation to find out how a proven treatment with a leading oculofacial plastic surgeon can save you from the stress and cost of failed fad procedures.  It will make all the difference in your treatment experience.

May 12, 2010

Should I Get a Midface Lift or Under Eye Filler?

Filed under: Cosmetic Surgery,eyelid filler,facelift alternative,facial cosmetic surgery,facial fillers,midface surgery,Restylane — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 10:58 pm

If you are seeking to improve your facial appearance by restoring it to a natural, youthful, and alert look, do not overlook the important difference that midface improvement can make.  When the malar fat pad descends on our faces, it shows up in our midface – the triangular area on each side of the nose.  This can translate to a loss of volume, hollow eyes, and a tired, haggard look.  When there are multiple procedures that can address similar issues, it can be hard to know which one to choose.  These are the times when it is especially important to choose an experienced specialist to aid you in your treatment decisions.  A cosmetic surgeon who has extensive midface experience will be able to give you the best results regardless of what treatment method you go with, which is why it’s always much better to seek guidance from an expert rather than choose a procedure based on what you find online and then use a doctor whose specialty lies elsewhere.

Midface Lift Before and After Photo

Midface Lift Before and After Photo

Dr. Steinsapir almost always recommends choosing the least invasive option that addresses your needs, which of course is different for everyone.  Often patients seeking a midface lift consultation only need Deepfill Restylane treatment, which is a detailed precise technique that requires great skill yet is minimally invasive, offers little to no downtime, and provides great results in the under-eye and midface areas.  At other times when the loss of soft tissue or deficiency in bone projection is profound, Dr. Steinsapir recommends midface surgery, which creates dramatic and long-lasting results.

Benefits for Your Whole Face

Many people don’t realize the extent to which their drooping midface and loss of skin elasticity affects their eyes, which are the focal point of the face.   The midface descent and sagging skin detract from our eyes significantly, causing hollow undereyes and lower eyelid concerns.  Restylane can address the hollow undereyes, but in cases where midface descent is severe, a midface lift is indicated to restore balance.  You may be surprised by the facial improvement possible with a midface lift.

Midface Lift or Restylane?

If you and your doctor opt for Restylane filler treatments, you will need to go in for more treatment periodically, perhaps once a year.  This is a great solution for those who need treatment but do not have severe issues.  You may benefit from a midface lift down the line but only need Restylane right now.  This all depends on the individual.

The midface lift is useful for more dramatic concerns by successfully addressing the way the descent of the midface dynamically impacts the rest of the face.  A midface lift can correct deficiencies like the undereye hollow and even address wrinkles, taking years off your face and helping you to feel better.

Ultimately, you cannot determine your solution until you seek professional advice and receive an examination to determine your needs.

A Midface Lift Pioneer

Dr. Steinsapir is an expert in the midface lift in Los Angeles.  This procedure has been relatively new over the last twenty years, and Dr. Steinsapir has been at the forefront of its study, development, practice, and perfection.  There are a number of midface lift techniques including the arcus marginalis release, tailored lower eyelid surgery combined with reinforcement of the orbitomalar ligament, and the vertical midface lift.  Dr. Steinsapir’s approach is to tailor your treatment depending on your unique condition, facial anatomy, and goals.  He has innovated new approaches and is widely renowned for his reconstructive midface surgery to fix prior failed surgeries. His solutions include minimally invasive techniques, short midface lift recovery time, and his acclaimed approach of using hand-carved ePTFE orbital rim implants.

Dr. Steinsapir will personally perform all your treatment and never relies on assistants or technicians to perform your treatment.  He will work with you closely and keep communication open, so you will not run into any surprises.  At a personal consultation he can answer your questions and give you advice based on your individual circumstances.  Contact us today to find out how a midface lift or Restylane in Los Angeles can help you achieve the results you desire.

April 18, 2010

Are fillers good for acne scarring?

Filed under: acne scars,facial fillers,laser resurfacing alternatives,restylane in los angeles,Restylane Injections,restylane los angeles — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 11:45 am

Acne scars and other depressed scars and deficiences can often greatly benefit from hyaluronic fillers like Restylane and Perlane.  Filling depressed scars is an effective treatment that is nonsurgical, minimally invasive, and gives benefits that can easily last six months to a year, and in some cases, longer.

filler for scar before and after photo

filler for scar before and after photo

How can fillers improve scars?

You may have an indentation from acne scars, a surgery, a cut from a sports injury, or for a number of other reasons.  This deficiency can stand out in your appearance and detract from your facial aesthetics.  For some, scars can even be painful reminders of past problems.  Fillers like Perlane and Restylane are often the best option for diminishing the visibility of scars on the face by eliminating skin irregularities and restoring the skin to its natural texture and shape.  By filling in the deficiencies that are responsible for these indented scars, you may find that your scars are no longer noticeable.  Facial fillers are safe and minimally invasive treatments that require little to no recovery time.  This, combined with their effectiveness, make them the leading choice for acne scar treatment without the prolonged recover associated with surgery.

Why are fillers better than laser resurfacing to treat scars?

Laser treatment at first seemed like a promising technology, but it has never reliably delivered great results, and it is associated with many complications, including permanent disfigurement.  Laser resurfacing for acne often yields no results, or – worse – it can make things worse.  An erbium laser generally provides only minimal improvement, while something like CO2 laser resurfacing is so aggressive that it can damage your natural pigmentation.  Fractional CO2 skin treatment are often big disappointment and very expensive.  It is almost always much safer and more effective to choose acne scar fillers than laser treatment.

How to Find a Facial Fillers Expert

Treating facial scars is both a medical procedure and an art that should be performed by a doctor who specializes in treatment with facial fillers.  Your doctor, whether a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon, should also possess the great artistic skill needed to precisely place the filler for the best aesthetic results possible.

It can be tough to know where to begin when trying to assess your potential treatment provider’s ability, experience, expertise, artistic ability, specialization, and so on, but with some careful research you can find someone well-qualified to give you great results.  When seeking someone to help you remove acne scars, always find out whether the doctor will personally perform the procedure or instead use an assistant to administer your treatment.  Only choose a doctor who will personally treat you; after all, you don’t know anything about the assistant’s ability, and your results will be much better when the most qualified doctor performs them, rather than a non-physician in training.  An assistant may cost less, but your results will likely not be as good.

Carefully study your potential doctor’s scar removal before and after photos, noting any changes in camera angles or lighting conditions.  If you don’t like what you see in the example photos, you probably won’t like what you see in the mirror later either.

Make sure that your doctor has a lot of experience in filling scars on the face.  Choose a doctor who specializes in facial fillers.  Every doctor has special areas of talent and experience.  Just as you wouldn’t go to the same doctor for brain surgery and heart surgery, even if both are leading surgeons, you need to choose a doctor who makes fillers and facial cosmetic treatments a focus of their practice.

Finally, evaluate how well you get along with your potential doctor at your initial consultation.  You should feel comfortable around your doctor and confident in his or her ability to help you.  Sometimes for reasons beyond explanation a doctor and patient don’t “click” together, in which case it’s okay to move on.

Consult with an Expert in Facial Fillers

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, M.D. provides treatment with facial fillers in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles as a major focus of his practice.  Medicis, Inc. – the distributer of leading fillers Restylane and Perlane – has recognized Dr. Steinsapir for his expertise in fillers.  Dr. Steinsapir understands how to correct the focal loss of fat often seen underneath acne scars and other types of scars because of his extensive education, fellowships, and practical treatment experience.  He will personally administer your treatment with the precise skill required to create natural results.  Please call us today for a filler consultation to find out how Dr. Steinsapir can give you immediate scar treatment results.

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