Archive for August, 2010
Avoiding Rare Complication of Botox and Dysport: Eyelid Drooping
The wrinkle eliminating dermal injectables Botox® and Dysport® have gained droves of faithful injectors since their FDA approval less than a decade ago. The beauty of the products is their ability to, relatively painlessly; eliminate facial wrinkles and furrows like crow’s feet with a few quick injections. Despite the dramatic results many patients report, there are some rare side effects (and ways to avoid them) that Botox® and Dysport® users should be aware of.
Drooping eyelid(s) are a rare, but occasionally reported, side effect of dermal injections. Both Botox® and Dysport® work by relaxing the muscle to which they are injected through Botulinum Type A (a purified toxin.) The “relaxation” results in a decreased appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but can also result in the over-relaxation of untargeted muscles: like those that control the opening and closing of the eyelid. The best way to avoid this type of complication is to only entrust the work of a properly certified injector.
A qualified professional will know the correct amount of product to use during the procedure. Because every patient’s anatomy is different, understanding exactly which muscles to treat and how much of the syringe-stored product to administer is key in avoiding over injection which could lead to eyelid drooping. Most of DAA’s certified, experienced physicians and providers perform an average of 1,000 Botox® and Dysport® injections annually.
Also important is the provider’s prescribed aftercare direction. Dermal injection patients should try to remain standing and active immediately following the procedures. Patients who lay down immediately after injection increase their chances of having the relaxing agent settling into surrounding muscle.
But patients should take heart, unlike more permanent methods of facial rejuvenation, (i.e.-eye lid surgery (blepharoplasty), chemical peel, or laser resurfacing) dermal injections must be repeated every 4-6 months as the products’ muscle relaxing active ingredient (Botulinum A) is eventually eliminated by the body. Therefore, in the rare event mild drooping does occur, the effects are temporary.
If you’re interested in learning more about facial rejuvenation or other cosmetic procedures available at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta contact our office, visit our website, or subscribe to our blog.
Acne Sucks! New Vacuum Suctioning Technology Helps in the Treatment of Acne
At one point in our lives, we have all been so frustrated by an acne outbreak that we wished we could just suck all the dirt and oil right off our face and be left with clear, blemish-free skin. With the introduction of the new acne treatment technology, Isolaz™, this might actually be a possibility for acne sufferers. Isolaz™ is the only acne therapy to combine a vacuum with laser light to penetrate and purify pores on a deeper level.
Isolaz™ works by using the vacuum to suction and extract deep oil and dirt to clean out and purify pores. Then it is the job of the accompaning acne light device to target and destroy acne causing bacteria within the pores. Results are visible within 2 days of treatment and include a reduction in blemish redness and smoother skin texture.
The Isolaz™ system boasts absolutely no downtime or pain during treatment and has added benefits like reduction of brown and red spots, sun damage, and rosacea. The Isolaz™ device also rids the treated area of unwanted facial hair.
Dermatology Associates of Atlanta is currently offering Isolaz™ treatments, so schedule a consultation with one of our laser specialists to see if it can help improve you, or your child’s, acne. Contact our office today for more information.
Dermatology Associates of Atlanta and Skin Medics Medical Spa Continue Summer Specials
Treat your skin and take advantage of our latest specials from Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s specialty center Skin Medics™ Medical Spa (Expires August 31st.) Visit the Skin Medics™ or DAA website for additional information.
Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s Board Certified Dermatologists and Physician’s Assistants stay at the forefront of technological innovation. Make sure to read our blog this month for our newest treatments for acne and wrinkles.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
New Cryo-Liposuction System Offers Safer, Non-Invasive Liposuction Technique
Over the years, there have been many variations of liposuction systems looking to remove excess fat without subjecting the patient to invasive surgery. Cryolipolysis™ (Cryolipo),branded as CoolSculpting by its maker ZELTIQ™, is the latest FDA approved noninvasive liposuction treatment currently on the market.
Most noninvasive liposuction systems use various methods to destroy fat cells that the body then naturally disposes of. There was some question however, about the pace at which the liver had to work with previous system. Unlike previous methods though, Cryolipo gradually causes the body’s lymphatic system to dispose of the cells over a 2 to 4 month period post-procedure, a safer alternative.
The CoolSculpting device works by emitting cool, cryogenic energy, to the targeted area. Naturally, you body invokes its automatic inflammatory response to the rapid temperature change, damaging excess fat cells. These damaged fat cells are then disposed of naturally (as detailed above).
Cryolipolysis™ has become so popular since its launch that it was even featured on Good Morning America. But despite the hype surrounding it, it is important to remember that non-invasive liposuction techniques are only effective in removing very small amounts of fat. More dramatic results can be seen through traditional, surgical liposuction – also available at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta.
If you are interested in learning more about Cryolipolysis™, contact DAA to schedule a consultation.
Introducing Pellevé™ – The Latest in Wrinkle Reduction Technology
What does Pellevé™ do?
Pellevé™ is a skin tightening system that works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, smooth the skin’s surface, and stimulate the growth of skin’s collagen to prevent further wrinkling.
How does Pellevé™ work?
The Pellevé™ device works by emitting heat energy; this energy builds up in between tissue layers of skin and fat on the treated area causing the tissue’s collagen to contract and become firmer. The firmer, contracted skin results in a reduction of wrinkling and tighter skin.
Where is Pellevé™ used?
Pellevé™ may be used on the face and neck to remove wrinkles and fine lines.
How long do the results of Pellevé™ last?
Results from Pellevé™ can last up to 6 months. Because Pellevé™ treatment results in collagen growth, improvement in skin health can be seen over time, especially with multiple treatments.
What does a Pellevé™ treatment feel like?
Most people feel only a slight warming sensation when the device is applied to the treated area. Slight redness can occur following the procedure, but is temporary. No anesthesia is required with the use of Pellevé™ as the treatment is virtually painless and requires no downtime.
Where can I get a Pellevé™ treatment?
Dermatology Associates of Atlanta is one of only two practices in Atlanta to offer Pellevé™. Contact us to schedule your consultation!
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