FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

Botox

What is a botulinum toxin injection?

Botulinum toxin injections involve injecting several different injections into the muscles of the face. The face has 43 muscles, and it is essential that the person who performs the injection understands the anatomy and can optimize your treatment. A tiny needle, similar to an insulin needle, is used to inject specific muscles. The objective is to weaken the muscles that cause wrinkles, while preserving your natural facial expression. The number of injections required will depend on your facial features and the extent of your wrinkles. (Source: plasticsurgery.org)

How safe is Botox?

Botox is generally a safe procedure. However, like any other injection, there is always a risk of experiencing some side effects such as bruising, pain at the injection site, flu-like symptoms, headache, nausea, redness, temporary facial weakness, or drooping. It is important to note that Botox is highly unlikely to cause breathing problems, muscle weakness, trouble swallowing, or slurred speech. (Source: plasticsurgery.org)

How long does it take for Botox to work? How long does it last?

You may notice the results within a few days after treatment, but it can take up to a week to see the full effect. The effects of the treatment typically last for about three to four months.

What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?

Both Botox and Dysport are types of botulinum toxin, which is the active ingredient responsible for relaxing wrinkles. The main difference between the two is the potency and effectiveness, which is related to the carrier protein component of the botulinum toxin molecule. However, both products have an excellent safety profile, although all medications carry a risk of side effects. Studies have shown that the effects of Dysport can appear sooner than Botox, but Botox may last longer. It's important to note that individual results may vary.

Who can't get Botox?

If you are pregnant, have a history of botulinum toxin sensitivity, or have a milk allergy, then Botox or Dysport may not be suitable for you. To ensure safety, you may need to stop taking blood thinners, muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatories, fish oil supplements, as well as thyme, turmeric, oregano, cayenne pepper, ginger, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba, as these can contribute to blood thinning and increase the risk of excessive bruising or swelling.

What should I avoid after Botox?

After an injection, avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area to prevent the botulinum toxin from migrating to another area of the face. Doing so may cause temporary facial weakness or drooping.

Injectables

How long does filler last?

The duration of the effects of filler varies depending on the product used during the procedure. Generally, it lasts for 12 to 24 months. After the injection, the filler reaches its maximum volume. However, over the next few months, the body breaks down or metabolizes the filler, causing it to decrease gradually. Therefore, what you see on the first day after the procedure will not be the same as what you see six months or a year later. Unfortunately, your body will continue to age during this time, leading to ongoing loss of bone, muscle, and fat.

Are fillers safe?

Complications from dermal fillers are not common, but can occur. The risks associated with them depend on the type of filler used and how permanent the substance is. These risks include acne-like skin eruptions, asymmetry, bleeding from the injection site, bruising, infection at the injection site, lumps, palpability of the filler under the skin, skin necrosis (ulceration or loss of skin from disruption of blood flow), skin rashes with itching, skin redness, swelling, and under- or over-correction. In rare cases, the filler may accidentally be injected into blood vessels under the skin, which can lead to loss of eyesight or blindness if the eye is affected. (Source: plastic surgery.org)

Can I get filler and Botox the same day?

The short answer: it depends. Patients often receive both treatments together and it is safe. However, as with anything, there are always caveats. Much of it depends on individual patient characteristics as well as goals of care as well as patient preferences and tolerances. That is why an individual consultation is always the first step to any successful relationship.

Body Sculpting

How long until I see results after Emsculpt?

EmSculpt is a groundbreaking treatment that can address both muscle and fat in the body, making it a first-of-its-kind solution. With the introduction of EmSculpt NEO, this technology can now target muscle, fat, and skin in a single 30-minute session. Aside from improving these tissues, patients have also reported experiencing better posture, less lower back pain, and a slimmer waistline. The final results can be seen approximately 10 to 12 weeks after the treatment. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen throughout the entire process.

Medical Skin Treatments

How long until I see results after Exilis?

Exilis is a treatment that uses a combination of radio-frequency and ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production in the skin. During the treatment, you will feel a warm sensation, but it should not be painful. A technician will be present with you throughout the entire process, and the settings can be adjusted to suit your individual goals and tolerances. Typically, treatments are done once per week over a four- to six-week period, with optimal results visible after 10 to 12 weeks. Exilis Ultra 360 is a safe treatment for the entire body and can be used to treat sensitive areas such as the skin around the eyes, mouth, and neck, as well as other areas.

What’s the difference between JetPeel and HydraFacial?

JetPeel and HydraFacial are two different skincare technologies that work in distinct ways. JetPeel uses infusion-based technology to deliver active ingredients into the dermis without touching the skin, making it safe for all skin types. It is a non-abrasive treatment that consists of three steps: lymphatic drainage, exfoliation, and product delivery. The JetPeel device delivers various products to the deep dermal layer to achieve specific treatment goals, such as brightening, pigmentation, and fine lines. The treatment uses super serums containing advanced ingredients that provide antioxidant protection and peptides to enhance the skin's glow.

HydraFacial, on the other hand, is a suction-based technology that works by exfoliating the epidermis on the skin's surface. Unlike JetPeel, HydraFacial requires contact with the skin. This treatment uses patented technology to cleanse, extract, and hydrate the skin. However, it can be abrasive and may not be suitable for sensitive skin.

How is microneedling different from a chemical peel?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure where physical trauma is induced into the upper layers of the skin by small sterile needles to incite the body’s healing response. These “micro-traumas” cause the body to heal the skin by creating new collagen which causes the skin to be tighter and more toned. A chemical peel is a more superficial treatment where various chemicals are placed topically on the skin. The acidic components of the peel cause damage to the outermost layers of the skin which causes the skin to slough off, leaving new, fresh, soft skin underneath. Chemical peels can be of various strengths and penetration to give variable outcomes depending on the goals. Different types of peels also have variable recovery periods.

What is PRP?

Also known as platelet-rich plasma, PRP is the plasma part of whole blood that boasts growth factors and collagen stimulators. A whole blood sample is taken from a vein then placed in a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates the blood components and the plasma can be isolated and harnessed for its healing potential.

IPL Laser

How should I prepare for my treatment?

We will provide you with a skin type worksheet to assist with determining your skin type. We will also remove any makeup before treatment.

What should I expect after my treatment?

This will vary based on the treatment and the settings used, however, most patients report a slight stinging, much like a mild sunburn, for several hours following the treatment.

How much discomfort should I feel?

Most patients report a slight discomfort much like the sting from a rubber band snap. On a discomfort scale of 1-10 (with 1 being no discomfort and 10 being intolerable), patients should verbalize a 4-6. Topical numbing agents and ice may be used to increase comfort level.

Should I tan before treatment?

Sunless tanners, as well as tanning beds and natural tanning, all darken the skin’s pigment. Treatment should be postponed until the tan has faded.

Can I use retinols before treatment?

Retin-A can cause photosensitivity, and use should be discontinued for two weeks prior to treatment. Accutane must be discontinued 6 months prior to treatment. Other medications, such as birth control pills and some antibiotics, also cause photosensitivity.

Can IPL be performed during pregnancy?

Although IPL is a safe treatment, it is advised to discontinue treatment during pregnancy.

Skincare

Why choose ZO®?

ZO® products are specifically formulated by legendary dermatologist, Zen Obagi, MD, and designed to optimize skin performance. ZO® is medical-grade skin care that is offered in physician offices, with educated, guided specialists who understand the products as well as how to complement and pair them for optimal results. The breadth of product line allows curated individual preferences.

What’s the big deal with sunscreen?

80% of visible signs of skin aging come from environmental aggressors, with the sun being one of the biggest culprits. Sun damage can cause dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging of the skin. Choosing the right SPF and being committed to regular product use can help defend against these effects. Broad-based UVA/UVB protection is an ultra-light easily absorbed formula. Choose a SPF of at least 30. Mineral sunscreen includes zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect the skin against sun damage and skin cancer by acting as a shield. Chemical sunscreens often include avobenzone, octanoate, and oxybenzone, which act as a chemical filter.

Should I use sunscreen year-round?

Yes. In the Northeast, we think of sun and summer, but UVA and UVB rays are all around us, no matter the season. Additionally light from internal sources along with computers and other electronic devices are an ongoing threat. The bottom line: use sunscreen year-round to help prevent environmental damage and minimize the signs of aging on your skin.

Medical Weight-loss

How much does this treatment cost?

Options both with and without insurance coverage are available, depending on your initial health assessment.

Are these medications safe?

Overall as a class of medication, they are generally well tolerated with few side effects. Be sure to raise any questions or concerns with your provider.

What are the side effects?

Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, stomach cramping, bloating, and diarrhea are most common. You may experience more severe abdominal pain caused by pancreatitis, cholestasis, or also experience rapid heart rates.

How long do I have to be on the treatment?

Duration of treatment will vary based on your goals and progress. Study groups were followed for many years. Rebound weight loss was common with shorter duration of treatment.