Cleveland Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation with Neurotoxins and Fillers
As one of Cleveland’s most in-demand plastic surgeons, Dr. Rodney Green sees patients with a variety of treatment needs and goals. Many of his patients are starting to see signs of aging around the face and want to freeze the hands of time; however, some of them are hesitant to undergo plastic surgery or simply do not yet need surgical intervention. These patients want facial rejuvenation treatment without the cost or commitment of surgery. For this population, non-surgical facial rejuvenation with cosmetic injectable products (e.g., Botox, dermal fillers) is helpful.
How Neurotoxins and Dermal Fillers Work
These products are used in a minimally invasive way to turn back the clock on facial aging. When injected into specific points around the face, these products minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and folds. After treatment, the skin looks tighter, smoother and sometimes more hydrated, depending on the product. The results of these treatments are immediate, yet temporary. Treatment is virtually painless, requires very little recovery time and carries little risk. Eventually the effects wear off and treatment must be repeated to achieve the same anti-aging results.
More about Neurotoxins (e.g., Botox)
Botox is a highly purified toxin derived from the bacteria that causes botulism. It was designed for wrinkles caused by repetitive facial movements. When injected into strategic muscles, Botox relaxes the muscle and the overlying wrinkle smooths. Botox is normally used to treat the forehead and medial brow area. It can also minimize crow’s feet on the outside corners of the eyes.
Botox can be used to improve wrinkles and lines that contribute to an angry, sad or tired expression. After treatment with Botox, patients may look more approachable, pleasant and well rested. Botox can also improve the symmetry between the eyebrows and in the face. In addition to being used cosmetically, Botox can also be used to relieve migraine headaches.
Botox results typically last four to six months.
More about Fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane)
Juvederm or Restylane are other cosmetic injectables, but they behave differently than Botox. Formulated from a naturally occurring substance called hyaluronic acid, these products are designed to add volume and fullness to areas of the face that need it. This includes nasolabial folds (the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth) and other deep lines around the mouth, brows and eyes. Juvederm or Restylane have other purposes, too. They can alter the contours of the jawline and enhance the lips, providing definition and shape.
There are several products in the Juvederm family, each prepared for a slightly different purpose. For example, Juvederm Voluma is designed specifically to enhance the cheek area. When injected into the apples or apex of the cheeks, it provides healthy looking shape and fullness.
Depending on the specific Juvederm product, results can last six to 12 months or longer. Dr. Green prefers the Juvederm line of products generally. He uses a special blunt canula to inject the Juvaderm to minimize bruising and to avoid accidental injection into vessels.
More about Treatment with Botox and Dermal Fillers
It is important that Botox and filler treatment be administered by a board certified plastic surgeon, highly experienced nurse or aesthetician that understands the nuances of the facial structures. An experienced practitioner also understands how subtle tweaks can yield noticeable results.
Treatment with Botox and fillers is quick, convenient and virtually painless. Prior to treatment, the areas of the face needing correction are carefully marked (as a guide to the appropriate injection points) and cleaned with an antibacterial agent. The face may be numbed with ice or a topical cream; certain fillers contain lidocaine, which has numbing properties.
Small amounts of the product are injected into the pre-marked areas of the face. This might feel like a tiny prick, but it should not be painful. Depending on the way the product behaves, it either paralyzes the facial muscles or inflates to cushion and hydrate the skin. The injections take only a few minutes to complete.
After the injections are completed, the marks are washed away and ice is applied to the treated area to reduce any discomfort. There may be slight redness and possible swelling, but these side effects subside quickly.
Patients can immediately return to work after treatment. There is very little downtime needed, although Dr. Green recommends avoiding strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.
Contact Dr. Rodney Green Today
To learn more about Botox and filler treatment in more detail, please contact the Cleveland plastic surgery office of Dr. Rodney Green. Call us at 440-449-8880 today.
