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February 2011
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In this issue:
Blepharoplasty
Treatments for Melasma
Lip Augmentations: The Skin Spa
Latisse®: The Skin Spa
BLEPHAROPLASTY
Julie Khanna, MD, Plastic Surgeon
A blepharoplasty or an eyelid lift, can improve the contour around the
eyes by removing loose hanging skin caused by a loss of collagen that
can often give the look of a tired, aged appearance. Dr. Julie Khanna
Director of Plastic Surgery
The surgery itself involves cutting and removing the excess skin around
the upper and/or lower eyelids while tightening the remaining skin to
create a more youthful contour. The incisions are placed along the
natural folds of the eyelids and lash lines to minimize the visibility of
scarring. Bruising and swelling are to be expected for up to 2 weeks
after surgery. Keeping the head elevated while sleeping or resting,
along with the application of cold compresses is recommended to speed
up the healing process. A blepharoplasty can be performed on its own,
but can also be combined with a facelift and/or brow lift surgery to
give patients a complete facial rejuvenation.
We typically lose about 1% of our total collagen every year, so in
addition to a blepharoplasty, or perhaps in place of surgery, a patient
may wish to undergo Thermage® treatments at our Skin Spa.
Thermage® uses targeted energy waves to stimulate the production of
collagen. For overall rejuvenation, a full-face treatment to improve
jowling in the lower face and to lift the brow is performed in addition
to the eye treatment, which helps to lift and improve the look of the
upper and lower lids.
TREATMENTS FOR MELASMA
Sheetal Sapra MD, FRCPC, Dermatologist
Dr. Sheetal Sapra
Director of Dermatology
Melasma is the development of a dark discolouration on the skin.
Individual genetics and hormone levels, in combination with unprotected
sun exposure can lead to an increased chance of developing Melasma.
Although this condition can affect anyone, women are most often
affected by Melasma. Pregnant women are particularly prone to the
development of Melasma, and are often referred to as having a
“pregnancy mask.”
There are many options for treating Melasma, which range from
chemical peels and lasers, to physician grade skin care products such as
SkinTx de-pigmentation program that can help in achieving a more even
skin tone. A Dermamelan peel is often recommend for patients at ICLS.
Dermamelan blocks the main enzyme, which is essential in the melanin
formation process called tyrosinase. By blocking this enzyme, a more
even skin tone can be achieved. The first part of treatment is
performed in our office with the application of a chemical peel to
remove any superficial layers of skin and to ensure the deepest possible
penetration for the Dermamelan mask. The mask is then applied by a
nurse and left on for approximately 8-12 hours. Patients are sent home
with the mask on where it can later be washed off. Patients are also
directed to apply an included take home treatment. A Dermamelan peel
alone is often effective in restoring an even complexion for most
patients with Melasma. With continued daily use of sun protection with
a minimum 30 SPF and limiting sun exposure during peak hours, this can
help in keeping an even skin tone year round. Because Melasma is
mainly affected by hormones, this will likely be an on-going condition
that should be maintained on a continual basis. LIP AUGMENTATIONS: THE SKIN SPA
Dermal fillers can be used to temporarily plump lips to provide patients
with immediate non-surgical results. Juvéderm® and Restylane® are
used to provide patients with an extremely natural lip augmentation.
These fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid, and unlike collagen based
fillers, there is no need for allergy testing with Juvéderm® and
Restylane®, as hyaluronic acid is naturally found within the body.
There is often little to no downtime for this procedure. Patients may
experience initial swelling, primarily from the injectable freezing that is
used. Bruising can also sometimes occur at the injection site, which can
be minimized with a cold compress and Arnica Gel. Results for lip
augmentations using hyaluronic acid based injections can last up to 4-6
months; with touch up treatments being scheduled to further prolong
results. For more voluptuous lips, using a hypoallergenic mineral based
make-up such as Colorescience Lip Polish and Lip Shine can give lips a
sexier look with added SPF protection to compliment lip augmentation
treatments.
LATISSE®: THE SKIN SPA
Most women desire to have long, luscious eyelashes; however, most
have thin, short lashes and must therefore resort to eyeliners and
mascara to temporarily accent their eyes.
Recently there has been a product released by Allergan, the makers of
Botox®, which can extend the length and restore volume to lashes. This
product is called Latisse®. With the applicator provided, Latisse® can
extend inadequate eyelashes by applying the .03% bimatroprost
ophthalmic solution at the base of the upper eyelid on a nightly basis
for 16 consecutive weeks. For some, noticeable results can be seen in
as early as 4 weeks, and unlike fake press-on lashes, Latisse® adds
length to existing eyelashes, providing gradual, natural results.
It is essential to continue the nightly routine for this particular
treatment, as full benefits may be compromised. Discontinuing
treatment will eventually cause eyelashes to revert back to the normal
length before treatment. A detailed history of health is needed and will
be taken during the consultation appointment, as Latisse® does require
a prescription, patients with a history of glaucoma or are on medication
for eye pressure or similar conditions should not use Latisse®.
For first-rate cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery
procedures, visit the Institute of Cosmetic & Laser Surgery.
We offer exceptional care and customized treatments to
enhance your natural beauty and achieve the desired results.
1344 Cornwall Road, Suite 100
Oakville, Ontario, L6J 7W5
[email protected]
905-842-2262
1-800-417-3877
Serving Toronto, Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington,
Hamilton and the GTA Copyright © 2011
Institute of Cosmetic & Laser Surgery. All Rights Reserved.
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