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When considering cosmetic surgery, it is important that you are fully informed
on all aspects of the procedure that you are seeking.
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Holding back the years by 'filling your face'!
In the never ending race against the ravages of time there are some who say that western society’s need to look ever-younger may have become obsessive. The demand for the most popular cosmetic surgery and skin rejuvenating procedures are certainly on the increase. Previously deemed to be for celebrities and the rich and famous, these treatments are now within reach of Mrs, Miss or Mr Average.
There is a wide range of rejuvenating treatments available, but if you are considering treatment for the first time, where should you start? To help solve some of the mysteries surrounding the subject of “non surgical” cosmetic treatments, the following information is an outline of some of the more popular ones that are available.
Line Tamers
Due to the media coverage it has received, and its popularity with the celebrities, Botox has become widely used for softening lines and wrinkles. Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin type A, and since 1982 has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including dystonia (involuntary spasm of a muscle) and cerebral palsy in children.
In these cases, Botox is used to alleviate symptoms and prevent the muscle spasms for the duration of its effect. More recently, it has been used cosmetically by injection into certain facial muscles that are “overactive”. The effect is to cause smoothing of the lined or wrinkled area that has been created by the muscle activity.
It may also be used to weaken the action of muscles that pull the face in a downward direction, thus causing a “temporary lift” effect.
It has been researched for use on the facial muscles and has been found to be extremely effective in most cases. Correction of certain facial expressions, such as frowning or lifting the eyebrows to express surprise is the most popular cosmetic use of Botox.
Treatment for “crows feet” at the corners of the eyes is also very effective. The production of a softer, more youthful look following treatment can last 4-6 months, but research shows that the effect lasts longer with repeated treatments. The effect is NOT immediately evident, and can take 5-7 days to develop.
Risks and side effects are rare. It is essential to consult your practitioner for an initial assessment before undergoing treatment. However, it is usually accepted practice to consult and treat a patient on the same day.
Pretty Perfect Pout
Line fillers with branded names such as RESTYLANE, PERLANE, JUVEDERM or the original filler Collagen, can be used to treat areas of fine lines, wrinkles, deeper folds or to “plump” up the lips or outline the border of the lips, to achieve a more “perfect pout” For example:
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Vermilion Border (Paris Lip) – the upper edge of the lip
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Naso-labial Lines – (nose to mouth lines/folds)
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Glabellar Lines – (frown lines)
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Marionette Lines – (from the corners of the mouth down to the chin)
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Peri-oral Lines - (around the mouth – smokers lines)
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Collagen requires a skin test prior to treatment to rule out allergic reactions. As its source is animal (bovine) it is NOT suitable for those with allergies to beef, eggs etc and those patients who are vegan or vegetarian will need to consider alternatives.
Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm and Hydrafill are sources of Hyaluronic Acid, a substance found in abundance in young skins, which transports and holds water within the skin cells. With the ageing process, this ability to plump out the skin cells is gradually diminished.
All line fillers are administered by injection with a fine gauge needle beneath the lines and wrinkles, resulting in a “filling” of the depression caused by loss of collagen. A local anaesthetic is sometimes used to numb the area first, particularly in very sensitive areas such as the lips and mouth. The subsequent filling and plumping of the lines and wrinkles, folds or depressions injected, produces a more youthful, fuller appearance to the treated area.
Lip enhancements in particular have become popular with the younger patient, while line filling tends to attract a more mature client. However, with all the above treatments, it is essential to consult an experienced practitioner to assess suitability. Most patients are able to have their consultation and receive treatment on the same day.
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Naturally, there will be many questions you will want to ask before making any decisions about undergoing surgery.
If you would like further information we will be happy to answer any queries. Please do not hesitate to fill in the form
or contact us by telephone on 0207 158 0459.
Cosmetic Surgery, Cambridge, London
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