September 8, 2010

How do fillers improve my dark circles?

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 17, 2010

Men and lip fillers

Men’s lips are often neglected.   This is too bad, because a natural fullness in the lips is very handsome.  If you are a man seeking cosmetic improvement for your face, take care not to overlook the value of lips.  Many men who have lost lip volume over time or who have naturally thin lips fail to consider lip fillers as a treatment option.  Yet when we analyze what is going on in the face and what treatments are going to have the most impact, restoring the lip volume is of critical importance.  If you have thin lips or lip lines, consider how lip fillers may benefit you.

Attaining Masculine Lips

Strangely, when we think of full or beautiful lips, we usually think only of women.  It is of course true that full and natural lips give striking compliments to a woman’s face, but women are not the only ones who look best with well-formed lips.  If you look at fashion magazines, you’ll see that the men have lips that are every bit as strong as the women’s.  This is because of the simple truth that men’s lips are important.  The big difference of course is that men do not wear lipstick to call further attention to the lips.  But just as young women have full lips that gradually deflate over time, the same is true for men.  Restoring the volume deficiency with lip augmentation can work wonders in refining your features and making you look younger.

Men and Lip Fillers

Because so many men who want facial improvement don’t even consider the possibility that men usually look best with naturally full lips, they sometimes displace a problem of lip deficiency to other features that may or may not benefit from cosmetic treatment.  For example, if you notice that something about the lower half of your face is “off,” you might assume that you need a facelift or a better-defined jaw.  Perhaps you could use these treatments; we’ll leave that up to your cosmetic surgeon and you to determine.  The point here is that it’s important not to overlook any possibilities.

Restylane is almost always the most suitable facial filler for lips.  The lips are very sensitive and the skin here tends to show any irregularities, but Restylane rarely forms bumps.  This is why Restylane is great for treating sensitive areas like the lips as well as under eye hollows.  Since Restylane is a hyaluronic filler, any dissatisfying results can easily be changed by your doctor.  The flexibility of Restylane makes your lip augmentation a very low-risk procedure that is both safe and adjustable.

Expert Treatment for Optimum Results

Placing a lip filler is both a medical procedure and an art form.  Your doctor should have extensive experience in Restylane lip treatment as well as artistic vision and an intricate understanding of facial anatomy.  If you are interested in learning more about how lip filling can help you, or just want to find out if you’re a good candidate for a lip filler, we invite you to consult with Dr. Steinsapir.

Dr. Steinsapir is a cosmetic surgeon in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles who specializes in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures that give you fast recovery time and natural results.  He is a leading expert in Restylane, and has served as a physician consultant to Medicis, Inc., Restylane’s distributor.  In fact, his practice is one of few in the world that makes Restylane for dark circles and lips a major area of specialization.  Please contact us today to find out how Dr. Steinsapir’s experience and care can help you achieve your desired look.

August 12, 2010

Will BOTOX help my dark circles?

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

BOTOX and Restylane Before and After

BOTOX and Restylane Before and After

Why does BOTOX work?

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

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

How did I get dark circles under my eyes?

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

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

Effective Treatment Addresses Underlying Problems

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

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

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

Finding the Best Advice

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

August 2, 2010

What are the best lasers to improve my dark circles?

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.

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.

April 18, 2010

Are fillers good for acne scarring?

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.

March 22, 2010

Restylane in Los Angeles: Why Choose Dr. Steinsapir

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

Restylane in Los Angeles Before and After Photo

Restylane in Los Angeles Before and After Photo

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

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

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

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

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

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

February 17, 2010

Will getting BOTOX and Restylane make me look worse when they wear off?

Let’s clear up this misconception right away: as the effects of your treatment begin to wear off after several months, your face will slowly regain the looks it had immediately before your treatment, but there is no evidence that Restylane and BOTOX treatments will make you look worse.  The only change is that you looked better for 4 months in the case of BOTOX and over a year in the case of Restylane.  They have very few side effects, which are generally mild anyway.  If you aren’t happy with your results then simply don’t return for re-treatment and you will return to exactly what you used to look like.

before and after Restylane and BOTOX photo

before and after Restylane and BOTOX photo

Are the scary stories I’ve heard true?

A lot of people are apprehensive when it comes to receiving cosmetic treatments.  With all the media scares, rumors about celebrity BOTOX disasters, and misinformation abound, it can be a challenge to sort the truth from the hype.  It can be even more of a challenge to separate an extremely rare risk from typical outcomes.  For example, an unusual story of something that happened one time may technically be an accurate story, but it ventures into dishonesty as soon as it’s misrepresented as a typical event.  In the cases of BOTOX and Restylane, it’s true that in rare cases there can be side effects that are usually mild and not long-lasting, but if you are thinking of a particular public face that just hasn’t been the same in years, then you probably aren’t looking at before and after photos of Restylane and BOTOX, as these treatments wear off over time.  It is treatments like silicone oil, excessive surgery, and simply the ravages of excessive lifestyles that create long term damage to the faces of our celebrities.

People love to talk about dramatic, dangerous situations.  But the truth is, BOTOX and Restylane have an incredibly safe history with results that aren’t permanent.

How will BOTOX and Restylane change my face?

Treatments like BOTOX and Restylane are popular because they are noninvasive treatments that together can smooth wrinkles, relax tense muscles, and fill in hollow areas.  They are remarkably safe and, since they aren’t permanent, create a win-win situation.  If you are happy with your BOTOX or Restylane treatment, touch-up the treatment when need.  If you are not thrilled, let it wear off and move on to something else.  Sometimes we hear patients ask questions like, does BOTOX make wrinkles worse?  Sometimes they express concern about what happens after Restylane injections wear off.

We cannot emphasize enough that BOTOX and Restylane will not permanently alter your looks.  BOTOX is a naturally-occuring muscle relaxant compound, and Restylane is made from a biodegradable sugar-gel that occurs naturally in the body.  Both of these are eventually broken down and expelled from your body completely.  You’ll notice as this happens that your wrinkles will slowly return.  They may stand out to you after months of looking much better, in some cases, fantastic, but if you look at photos of yourself from before treatment, you will see that your problems have not been made worse by treatment.  You are simply getting your old face back.  Will this make you feel like you need more treatment-absolutely because these treatments are truly effective.

In the short run, BOTOX and Restylane will give you a youthful appearance and resolve many problems.  In the long run, BOTOX and Restylane will not affect your looks after you allow their effects to wear off.  A difference between BOTOX and Restylane is that BOTOX treatments are generally needed twice a year, while Restylane is needed once a year.  Most patients opt for retreatment when they see their old problems beginning to return.  This will maintain the natural-looking results gained from treatment.

Can BOTOX and Restylane prevent problems?

We are often asked questions like, can BOTOX prevent wrinkles?  We know that BOTOX does not aggravate wrinkles or make them worse in the long run.  We also know that the face is subject to gravity and general usage as we age, and that wrinkles can be caused by tense muscles.  When these overactive muscles relax, as they do in response to BOTOX, the skin is no longer constantly being creased.  This is similar to a folded piece of cloth; if you take a wrinkle-free piece of cloth and fold it over, then bring it back, you’ll see that it doesn’t “remember” the fold and is not wrinkled.  However, if you fold that same piece of cloth and place it under a book overnight, it will have a set crease when you come back to it.  When BOTOX and Restylane dissipate wrinkles, they are keeping the skin taut so it doesn’t “remember” those problems that BOTOX and Restylane prevent.

The Bottom Line

When Restylane and BOTOX wear off, you will look exactly as you did before treatment, although 6 to 16 months older.  You will not look worse as a result of Restylane or BOTOX wearing off.  If anything, you may have delayed the aging process.  It is understandable why people maintain treatment effects by refreshing their service when the feel it is necessary.

An Individual Treatment Program

Now that you’ve done some research on BOTOX and Restylane treatments, you’re ready to take the next step: research a doctor who can answer the rest of your questions and decide if treatment is right for you.  Dr. Steinsapir specializes in cosmetic facial treatments like Restylane and BOTOX in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles.  Dr. Steinsapir is a leader in facial cosmetic treatments and has innovated advanced treatments like Deepfill Restylane and Microdroplet BOTOX.  Call us today to find out how Dr. Steinsapir can individualize your treatment plan.

January 21, 2010

How often should I get BOTOX and Restylane?

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

Microdroplet Botox and undereye Restylane before and after photo

Microdroplet Botox and undereye Restylane before and after photo

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

Ultimately, it’s up to you.

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

I want precise guidance in scheduling my next treatment.

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

You can always modify your treatment plan later.

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

A consultation, not a commitment.

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

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

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

September 19, 2009

Restylane®: Your Answer to Minimally Invasive Treatment

Restylane®, a hyaluronic acid filler, has paved the way for non-surgical cosmetic treatment of the face and eyes. This injectable dermal gel has revolutionized the cosmetic procedures involved in smoothening facial lines, enhancing lips, treating nasolabial folds and glabellar lines, and addresses one of the most sought-after anti-aging treatment today – improving dark circles and under eye hollows. This effective filler manufactured by the leading pharmaceutical company – Medicis, Inc. – has the power to produce the desired effect and revive a youthful look, results that previously could only be accomplished with surgery.

The ability of Restylane® to improve sunken-in eyes, dark circles and bagginess under the eyes explains why this has rapidly emerged as the most desired of treatments. Dr. Steinsapir, the premier cosmetic surgeon in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills is renowned for his expertise in deploying Restylane® for under eye treatment. According to Dr. Steinsapir, the power of fillers like Restylane®, Perlane®, and Juvederm® from Allergan, Inc., the maker of BOTOX®, is in the versatility of the treatment. “Almost any facial issue can be improved by these fillers,” reports Dr. Steinsapir. These treatments are further distinguished from all other classes of fillers, such as Radiesse®, Sculptra®, silicone oil, fat grafts and fat pearls, because the treatment can easily be adjusted at any time after the initial service using a second product called hyaluronidase.

Dr. Steinsapir notes “it’s like having an eraser to adjust a treatment when needed.” He strongly believes that many people are far better off choosing Restylane® as an alternative to lower eyelid surgery. “Restylane® delivers natural results that are as good as and in many cases better than surgery.” Dr. Steinsapir developed the Deepfill™ Method of Restylane®, which is widely acclaimed among Hollywood A-listers and entertainment insiders in Beverly Hills.

Dr. Steinsapirs’s Deepfill™ Restylane® – Truly effective help for the lower eyelids without surgery.

Dr. Steinsapir is an internationally recognized midface surgeon having pioneered new surgeries for correcting midface and under eye issues. However, not everyone has the time or interest in having surgery. This inspired him to develop the innovative DeepfillTM method for lower eyelid treatment with Restylane® to fill the under eye hollows and relieve dark circles. This non-permanent treatment adds volume to the under eye skin, enhancing the appearance. Treatment is very comfortable and service can be performed at the time of initial consultation if you choose. Dr. Steinsapir does not believe in having nurses or physician extenders perform aesthetic services. “These treatments require much more than surgical dexterity. They require the eye and hands of an artist.” Schedule your initial consultation and learn what Dr. Steinsapir can do for you.

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