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Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid) is a newly approved filler by the FDA for the restoration and /or correction of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy). Facial lipoatrophy is the loss of fat beneath the skin, which can result in sunken cheeks, indentations and hollow eyes.
Because the main component in SCULPTRA, poly-L-lactic acid, is a polymer synthetically derived from natural components of the alpha-hydroxy-acid family and is a biocompatible substance, there is no need to test for allergic reactions. Poly-L-lactic acid has been used in surgical products for more than 20 years as a component of dissolvable sutures and is used as a vehicle for several sustained-release inject able medications and facial implants.
SCULPTRA is a filler material that is injected below the surface of the skin in the area of fat loss or deep creases. It provides gradual and significant increase in skin thickness, adding volume to facial tissue and restoring shape in areas of the face with fat loss.
More than 150,000 people in over 30 countries worldwide have been treated with SCULPTRA, under the trade name NEW-FILL, for a variety of facial volume and contour deficiencies. It was approved in Europe in 1999 to increase the volume of depressed area, particularly for the correction of skin depression, including skin creases, wrinkles, folds, scars, and eye rings. In 2004, the product was approved in Europe for large-volume corrections of the signs of lipoatrophy.
Side effects of SCULPTRA may include the delayed appearance of small bumps under the skin in the treated area. Generally these bumps are not visible and may only be noticed when pressing on the treated area. Other side effects may include injection-related events at the site of injection, such as bleeding, tenderness or discomfort, redness, bruising, or swelling.
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Sclerotherapy is the gold standard treatment for varicose, reticular and spider leg veins (abnormally enlarged blood vessels visible through the skin). The procedure involves injecting a detergent sclerosing agent into the vein, which then causes irritation and corrosion to the walls of the vessel. It then collapses and is absorbed by the body. These injections are relatively pain free as compared to hypertonic saline used as a sclerosant. The average treatment program is outpatient and takes one to three sessions, depending on the amount of vessels to be treated. After each treatment session patients must wear compression hose for a few days or weeks and are encouraged to walk or exercise and resume regular activities to speed recovery. Sclerotherapy rarely produces scarring or other side effects (typically these involve minor swelling, bruising and itching), although it cannot prevent the recurrence of vascular lesions. Following treatment, the affected veins may darken and the area may appear pigmented but this is temporary and will fade over time. We’ll be happy to discuss both benefits and possible risks of sclerotherapy during your consultation.
Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin on the face to smooth texture, reduce scarring, and remove blemishes and pre-cancerous growths to produce healthy, glowing skin. There are three types of chemical peels, ranging from mild to strong – alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), tricholoroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol – and formula strengths are tailored to each patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures such as facelifts for a younger look. They may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons.
Get more information about alpha hydroxy acid peels provided by the Patient's Guide.
Microdermabrasion reduces the appearance of mild to moderate sun damage, scarring, wrinkles and other superficial skin problems by firing a gentle stream of tiny particles to exfoliate (abrade) the outer layer of skin and provide a fresh, glowing, younger appearance. The particles scrape away the surface layer of aging or damaged skin, which is then brushed off with the microdermabrasion vacuum tool, with no need for anesthesia. Only a small amount of skin is removed (stratum corneum layer), so damaged areas on sensitive areas such as the face, chest, neck, arms and hands can be treated. Results are comparable to a light chemical peel and should be immediately visible. An initial 6 treatments are spaced every 2 weeks then patients are placed on a maintenance program. The procedure is particularly helpful for Asian and dark-skinned patients who risk skin discoloration with other treatment options. Microdermabrasion is often performed in conjunction with other skin renewal procedures, such as laser treatment and chemical peels.
Learn about microdermabrasion for fine lines and wrinkles here
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