Frequently Asked Questions

Are BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments safe?
Although BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment for cosmetic enhancement is relatively new, the substance has been used for nearly two decades to treat neurological and ophthalmologic disorders from squinting and cross eyes to muscle twitching.

What happens during a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?
BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatments are very simple to perform and usually take less than five minutes per area treated. Using a tiny micro-needle, a minuscule amount of BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected, very precisely, into select locations on the face. Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of the substance is used, the pain associated with the injections is minimal. No sedation or local anesthetic is necessary, however comfort is enhanced when an ice pack is applied to the area a few minutes before treatment.

When will I be able to resume normal activities?
You may resume normal activities immediately after your BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment as long as you maintain an upright position and avoid any pressure on the area for three or four hours. Most patients see a difference in their appearance in three to five days. In most cases, the treated wrinkles will lay flat, giving your face a smoother, younger appearance.

Are there any side effects?
Some patients experience slight, temporary bruising at the injection site. If this occurs, the bruising can be easily camouflaged with make-up.
In rare cases, when patients do not keep their head upright, the substance can migrate and cause a weakness of nearby muscles. This may cause a temporary drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of facial expression.

What results can I expect?
Three to five days after treatment, you will notice that your expression-related wrinkles and creases have diminished or have been eliminated. When you look in the mirror, you will see a more youthful and more pleasant appearance.
BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatments cannot improve age-related wrinkles, sun-damaged skin or sagging skin. Wrinkles related to age, may be treated with the CoolTouch III Gentle Laser, Microdermabrasion or a Chemical Peel. Individuals with excess or sagging skin may want to consider a "QuickLift," which has become popular among men and women in their late 40s and 50s.

What are the limitations of Botox?
Unfortunately, BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatments are a temporary solution for the treatment of dynamic wrinkles. The effects of the injections last from three to six months.

What are the alternatives to Botox?
To date, BOTOX® Cosmetic is the only treatment of its kind that actually "releases" the expression-related wrinkle and inhibits its contraction. These wrinkles and creases can be softened with an injectable filler such as Collagen, Dermologen or Fat Transfer through injection.
Am I a candidate for Botox?
If you would like to know if you are a candidate for BOTOX® Cosmetic Wrinkle Release, please call our office at 1-800-429-1151 and schedule a private skin evaluation.

Endermologie

What are the alternatives to a Chemical Peel?
There are several alternatives to a Chemical Peel that can be performed alone or in conjunction with other treatments. From noninvasive to more invasive, these treatments include Microdermabrasion, the CoolTouch III Gentle Laser, the FotoFacial, Dermabrasion or injectable Fillers such as Collagen and Dermologen and Fat Transfer through injection.

Although chemical peels can have a rejuvenating effect on skin, only a surgical procedure like a QuickLift or full Facelift, or an Eyelid Lift can actually tighten sagging skin. In many cases a chemical peel is performed in conjunction with these procedures.

What is the cost of a Chemical Peel?
The different treatments vary in cost according to the area treated. Generally, an AHA treatment can range from $75 to $200, whereas TCA and Phenol treatment can cost from $1000 to $3000.

What happens during the procedure?
The treatment begins with cleansing the skin and removing all traces of oil with rubbing alcohol or acetone. The face is then rinsed with water and blown-dry with a small fan. The physician carefully applies the chemical peeling agent so that all areas of the skin to be treated are covered evenly. A white film, referred to as "frost", develops on the skin by the end of the application. The peeling solution is left in place for a few minutes and then is thoroughly removed.

When will I be able to resume normal activities?
There is virtually no downtime after a Light Chemical Peel. Some patients experience skin flushing, which can easily be camouflaged with makeup. An emollient skin moisturizer helps control skin flaking for the first few days, which is common.

A Medium Peel usually results in swelling and oozing skin that dries and peels off in three or four days. Most patients resume their normal activities in about a week when the new skin has emerged, however it will be very pink before fading to a normal color. A Medium Peel does not lighten the skin so your skin will still be able to produce pigment again, i.e. tan. It is important, however, that you avoid sun exposure for several months after the peel to protect the newly formed layers of skin. Swimming in chlorinated pools should be avoided for four to six weeks. Daily use of a sunblock with both UVA and UVB protection is essential.

The initial recovery period with a Deep Peel is approximately 10 days to two weeks. After a Deep Peel, you can expect swelling and oozing skin that will peels off in three to five days. Your face will be very red at first, gradually fading to a pinkish color over the next few weeks. After about two weeks, your skin will be healed enough that you can resume normal activities and begin to wear makeup. To protect the delicate new skin, a UVA and UVB sunblock must be used at all times so you do not end up with blotchy, uneven skin. Chlorinated pools should be avoided for 6 to eight weeks.

Keep in mind, although a Deep Chemical Peel can be a painful, difficult process to endure, the end result… smoother, younger skin, can lasts 15 years or more, when properly maintained.

Am I a good candidate?
As with all elective surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites, but if you want to reduce refine the texture and pigmentation of your skin without surgery, a Chemical Peel may be very appropriate. Keep in mind, however:

• Your skin type and color, ethnic background and age will be factors in determining which type of peel is right for you.
• You must be free of active skin infections, including most kinds of acne and any type of cold sore, including herpes simplex.
• You must not have taken Accutane® for the previous 18 months at least.
• Darker skin poses special considerations due to increased risk of undesirable skin pigmentation changes.
• Make sure you are not prone to scarring problems such as keloids.
• Make sure your doctor is aware of any medical conditions or allergies you may have and any medications, herbal supplements or natural supplements you are taking (both prescription and nonprescription).

What are the alternatives to a Chemical Peel?
There are several alternatives to a Chemical Peel that can be performed alone or in conjunction with other treatments. From noninvasive to more invasive, these treatments include Microdermabrasion, the CoolTouch III Gentle Laser, the FotoFacial, Dermabrasion or injectable Fillers such as Collagen and Dermologen and Fat Transfer through injection.

Although chemical peels can have a rejuvenating effect on skin, only a surgical procedure like a QuickLift or full Facelift, or an Eyelid Lift can actually tighten sagging skin. In many cases a chemical peel is performed in conjunction with these procedures.

Which areas respond best to Collagen Treatment?
The areas that are most frequently treated with collagen are frown lines between the eyes, horizontal forehead lines, naso-labial folds, cheek depressions, marionette lines at the ends of the mouth, crow's feet around the eyes and chin creases. Collagen is also used to add fullness to lips to improve facial balance or a to create a sexier appeal.

What can I expect after my Collagen Treatment?
Following your Collagen treatment, normal activities can be resumed immediately. Discomfort is minimal. The treatment site may be slightly swollen for a few hours and there may be some slight bruising which can be camouflaged with makeup. Depending on the area treated, the results usually last from three to six months.

What happens during the treatment?
Collagen Treatments usually take less than twenty minutes to perform. Treatment is typically performed one month after a simple patch test to determine any sensitivity to the substance.

The Collagen is injected through a tiny syringe, into your own collagen beneath the epidermis. You will experience only minimal discomfort because the collagen contains a small amount of lidocaine, which helps desensitize the area. During your treatment, several injections may be needed for the desired result, depending on the depth and length of the wrinkle. One or two subsequent visits may be necessary for deeper wrinkles or creases.

How many treatments will I need?
Medium / Deep wrinkles are usually treated in two or three treatments over a three-month period. Since aging is a continuing process, treatments for age-related wrinkles will be ongoing. Most patients schedule touchups three or four times a year.

What are the alternatives to Collagen Treatment?
Other injectable fillers such as Dermalogen or Autologous Fat are alternatives to Collagen Replacement Therapy. The advantages and disadvantages of these treatments should also be discussed during your skin evaluation.

What is the treatment like?
CoolTouch III Laser Skin Resurfacing is quick and easy, usually lasting 30 minutes or less. Prior to your treatment, we'll ask you to apply a clear gel to the area(s) to enhance your comfort level. During your treatment, you may feel a warm sensation. Following treatment, you may see a flush in the area treated for an hour or so.

There is no recovery period involved. There is no oozing or crusting as associated with conventional laser treatments or Chemical Peels. You can apply makeup if desired and resume regular activities immediately after treatment.

What improvement can I expect?
You will notice skin texture changes three to six months after your first treatment. Fine and wrinkles will become less visible and will gradually diminish as you continue with your series of treatments. A series of five treatments is recommended with one treatment performed every four weeks.

How many treatments will I need?
Every patient is different, however a series of five treatments is typically recommended. Many individuals see noticeable improvement after their second or third treatment. The best results are seen about six months after your final treatment. Most CoolTouch III patients have maintenance treatments performed three or four times a year.

It is more cost effective for individuals to have Full-Face treatment performed rather than having more than one facial area treated. Full-Face treatments are performed every four weeks with a complimentary Power Peel treatment two weeks after each CoolTouch III treatment to promote exfoliation.

Am I a good candidate for CoolTouch III Laser Skin Resurfacing?
During your skin evaluation, we'll review your medical history, evaluate your skin condition and discuss the results you'd like to see. Based on these variables, we'll determine the best course of treatment for you. Results vary from patient to patient depending on age, skin condition and the number of treatments performed.

When will I be able to resume normal activities?
The biggest advantage of the CoolTouch III Gentle Laser is that there is no recovery period. There is no oozing or crusting as associated with conventional laser treatments, chemical peels and dermabrasion. You can apply make-up if desired and resume regular activities immediately after the treatment. In extremely rare instances, patients may experience slight blistering, which typically heals in a day or so.

How should I prepare for the treatment?
Forty eight hours prior to your treatment, you will be asked to refrain from using Retin-A (tretinoin), Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C. You may resume use two days after your treatment as long as you are not experiencing any irritation.

What are the alternatives to this treatment?
The Cooltouch III Laser is the treatment of choice for individuals who can't afford to take any time off from work to recover from a procedure. Treatments that correct similar skin conditions include Chemical Peels, Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing and Dermabrasion. These treatments resurface the skin by removing its damaged outer layers. The recovery period associated with these techniques is from about one to three weeks, depending on the procedure.

How is the procedure done?
Fat transfer is performed in our outpatient surgery center. Both the area from which the fat is taken and the recipient site are anesthetized with a local anesthetic. Using a small cannula, fat is removed from a donor site where the fat is most tightly packed, such as your abdomen or your buttocks.

Once removed, the fat is processed to remove excess fluids and then it is re-injected into the wrinkles, creases or folds of the face or into the backs of the hands where the skin thins with age. This process may be repeated until the desired correction has been achieved.

Harvesting the fat cells for re-injection is often performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as Liposuction, Tummy tuck or Breast Augmentation procedures. When the fat is harvested during another procedure, it is often possible for Dr. Brandy to harvest a larger amount of fat, which can be frozen and stored for future injections when they become necessary.

What can I expect after my Fat Transfer?
Patients are up and about immediately following Autologous Fat Transfer. Any discomfort following the procedure can be controlled with over-the-counter-pain medications. Some swelling at the treatment site may last up to 36 hours. There may be some bruising, which can be covered with makeup.

Within the first few months, about 65 percent of the fat will be absorbed by the body. The remaining 35% will typically stay in place for years. For long-term results, patients usually receive three or four treatments over a six-month period.

What are the benefits of Fat Transfer?
" Fat transferred to the face can last as long as three years.
" Fat transfer can be very cost effective when combined with another procedure.
" There's no chance of an allergic reaction.

What are the alternatives to this treatment?
Collagen Replacement Therapy and Dermalogen are alternatives to Autologous Fat Transfer. The advantages and disadvantages of these treatments should also be discussed during your skin evaluation.

What happens during the procedure?
Eyelid Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis with twilight sleep sedation for enhanced comfort during the procedure. The procedure can take between one and two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

During an Upper Eyelid procedure, the surgeon places fine incisions in the crease above each eye where it will heal nicely and be hidden. Then a thin crescent of excess skin and muscle is removed. The incisions are closed with very fine sutures.

To remove "bags" or fatty deposits beneath the eyes, the incisions heal invisibly because they are placed inside the lower eyelid. After excess fat is removed, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures to heal naturally.

What about recovery?
After your Eyelid procedure, the eye area may be swollen and sore for about a week. Bruising varies greatly from a week to as long as three weeks in a small percentage of patients. You may find your eyes to be more sensitive for up to two weeks so contact lenses should be avoided. Makeup may be worn after seven to ten days.

Will the cost be covered by insurance?
Correcting eyelid problems that interfere with your vision may be covered by your health insurance. However, when eyelid surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons, it will not be covered by your health insurance. It is the patient's responsibility to check with their insurance provider for the information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions.

What happens during the procedure?
The QuickLift is performed in our outpatient surgery center under local anesthesia with twilight sleep sedation. To enhance healing, a beveled incision is made within the temple hairline and continues in front of the ear around the earlobe and behind the ear. All incisions are strategically placed to be invisible or nearly invisible upon healing. The skin is tightened and trimmed as necessary, the underlying muscles are tightened and contoured, and excess fat is removed. The incision is then meticulously closed with fine sutures. A QuickLift can take two to three hours to perform depending on the extent of the procedure. The result is a lifted facial structure and smoother, tighter skin.

What happens after my surgery?
The recovery period is relatively brief, lasting about a week to ten days. Swelling can be expected and bruising varies among individuals. Resting with the head elevated and applying cold compresses will help to minimize these conditions. Pain is normally minimal and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. For the first week after surgery, your activity should be restricted to avoid bending over to minimize swelling.

Will the cost be covered by insurance?
Surgery performed purely for cosmetic reasons may not be covered by your health insurance. However, cosmetic surgeries performed for medical or reconstructive reasons may be covered in part or in whole by your health insurance. It is the patient's responsibility to check with their insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding payment.

What will recovery be like?
Following your Facial Liposuction procedure, you'll wear a support bandage over the treated area for a few days to help the skin conform to your new shape. Reston foam may added to minimize bruising. When you get home, you should keep your head upright and sleep propped with pillows for a few nights to keep swelling to a minimum. Mild pain medications may be needed along with cold packs for a few days. Most patients resume normal activities after two to four days.

Who are the best candidates?
Most men and women who have localized facial fatty deposits are good candidates for Facial Liposuction provided they:

• Are in good health.
• Have fat deposits disproportionate to the rest of their bodies.
• Have good skin elasticity.
• Have realistic expectations.

Am I a good candidate for Facial Implants?
During your initial evaluation, Dr. Brandy will assess the nature of your facial structure and discuss your facial structure and your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure.
He will show you several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar facial structure, and we will explain the results you can expect to receive.

How will my face feel after the implants are in?
Following Cheek Augmentation, you may experience some discomfort, aching, temporary swelling and some de-sensitivity. Postoperative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Chewing food and brushing your teeth might be a little uncomfortable for a week to ten days.
Following Chin Augmentation, we'll apply a dressing that will cover the area for about three days. Postoperative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will keep swelling to a minimum. A soft food diet may be required for a few days as chewing may be limited. All swelling should be gone within six weeks. External scars are minimal and will fade significantly over time. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.

Are chin and cheek implants safe?
Facial implants have proven to provide a safe and predictable cosmetic surgical procedure with minimal risk. To date, millions of facial implants made from nontoxic materials such as silicone and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) have been implanted, with no reported cases of allergic reaction.

The implants, designed specifically for use in the mid-facial cheek area and the chin come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. These implants can be custom trimmed by your surgeon for a more natural fit.

What is the procedure like?
Both chin and cheek implantation procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis using twilight sleep sedation.
After cleansing the area, your surgeon will place small incisions inside the mouth. The implants are placed through the incision and into position. The incisions are then closed using tiny sutures.

What about insurance?
Most health insurance does not cover procedures considered cosmetic. However, when implants are used to correct a defect, or for reconstructive purposes, they may be covered in part or in whole. It is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding payment arrangements.

What is a Fotofacial treatment like?
Each treatment takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes. A mild amount of discomfort can be expected. People with more sensitive skin may prefer to use ELA-MAX¨, a topical anesthetic cream. When ELA-MAX® is used 30 to 60 minutes before treatment there is almost no discomfort with treatment. There is no discomfort after treatments. Immediately following a treatment, the skin may appear red and flushed and tiny capillaries may appear more visible. Brown spots generally appear darker. All of these changes gradually fade over a period of hours to a few days.

How soon will I see results?
After your first treatment, your skin will feel smoother and will have a more even tone. These improvements are gradual and will be more visible after each treatment. Five treatments are performed for optimal results. Some patients will benefit from additional treatments.

What areas can be treated?
PhotoDerm™ treatments can be used on any part of the body. They are especially effective for improving the appearance of the face, neck, chest, forearms and hands.

What results can I expect?
You can expect to see a gradual decrease in overall hyperpigmentation and redness. Individuals with visible aging from the sun can expect to see their skin become smoother with a decrease in fine wrinkles, reduction in pore size and fading of sun spots. Many people with rosacea see an improvement in breakouts and are able to decrease or discontinue their medications.

Am I a candidate?
The best candidates for FotoFacial™ treatments are:

• People who suffer from rosacea and experience flushing and redness of their skin
• People with early aging changes and sun damage who desire healthier more youthful appearing skin
• People who don't want to take the time off the heal from laser resurfacing or chemical peels
• Active people who want to improve of their skin but do not want to interfere with social or outdoor activities

How does the PhotoDerm or FotoFacial treat redness?
An intense light is omitted in a series of gentle pulses over the entire area. This special light, which is different than laser, emits energy over many wavelengths. This allows the light to penetrate through the skin where dilated vessels can be found. Lasers produce only a single wavelength of light and are limited in what they can treat.

How much improvement can I expect?
On average 80%-90% improvement is seen in most patients.

How many treatments will I need?
After your series of three to five treatments, it is possible to require a follow-up treatment once a year to maintain your results. We will educate you on caring for your skin to help diminish the likelihood of future treatments.

On mature complexions FotoFacial™ treatments are often performed in conjunction with the CoolTouch III Laser Resurfacing to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What are the alternatives to this treatment?
While there are lasers that treat red spots and other lasers that treat brown spots, PhotoDerm technology provides the long-term improvement of both skin conditions plus the added benefit of smoother texture - all without the slightest interruption in your busy lifestyle.

What happens during the treatment?
EpiLaser Hair Removal is a gentle three-step process. First, we gently cleanse the area to be treated. Next, we apply a clear gel to the area. Then the area is scanned with the laser. The laser energy passes through the skin and is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle. In a fraction of a second, all of the treated hair follicles are disabled.

Treatments can last from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the size of the area being treated.

How many treatments do I need?
The number of treatments you may require for optimal long-term benefits depends on the area you wish to have treated, your skin type and your hair's growth cycle. We treat until the hair is gone. Usually three to four treatments are sufficient; however, your hair grows in cycles and many factors influence it's growth. Age, ethnicity, weight, hormones, diet, medication and metabolism all play a part in your hair's location, thickness and resilience.

EpiLaser slows the growing capacity of follicles in their growth cycle at the time of the treatment. Since some hair follicles may enter their growth cycle after your treatment, multiple treatments may be required to deliver optimal results. EpiLaser treatment results will vary from patient to patient depending on skin and hair color.

Note: Removing hair does not make it grow back thicker, darker or quicker. The opposite is usually the case. EpiLaser may cause hair to come back slower and thinner.

Why is the Laser Hair Removal better than electolysis?
Electrolysis is a much slower process. With electrolysis, a needle is actually inserted into each hair follicle, one at a time. Once inserted, an electric shock burns the follicle to retard hair growth. EpiTouch Hair Removal uses the cool light of the laser to scan the treatment area, and within minutes all of the hairs in the laser's beam are treated. Most patients who have had both procedures say that EpiLaser Hair Removal is less painful, faster and more convenient.

What is a PowerPeel treatment like?
During your PowerPeel, one of our nurses or medical estheticians will thoroughly exfoliate your skin with a delicate handheld device through which micronized aluminum oxide crystals are expelled and vacuumed.
This technique delivers thorough exfoliation and gently abrasion, which efficiently produces satisfying results in as little as twenty minutes to a half hour.

A single PowerPeel can give your skin a healthy glow while a series of PowerPeels is recommended for mild hyperpigmentation and textural irregularities. Call our office at ??? for current Package Pricing.

What results can you expect?
Regardless of your skin's condition, most patients will notice an improvement in their complexion after just one treatment. After three to five treatments, fine lines and age spots begin to fade and acne scars and stretch marks become less noticeable. Optimal results are obtained when a series of Power peels is performed in conjunction with a skincare regime that utilizes Prescription-Strength Topicals.

How soon will I see results?
Immediately following your treatment, your skin may be pink to very slightly red, but you can apply makeup without compromising the result. After about two days, you will see noticeable improvement in your complexion. Your skin will feel smoother and look more radiant.

How long do treatments take?
PowerPeel treatments usually last about 30 minutes. However, treatments for stretch marks can take as long as two hours. During your session we focus on your problem areas, but time can be given to other areas of concern.

What are the alternatives to this treatment?
Other skin treatments that remove dead skin cells from the surface include Light, Medium and Deep Chemical Peels and Dermabrasion. In addition, there are treatments that work beneath the skin to improve its color and texture. These include PhotoDerm Skin Correction / FotoFacial and the CoolTouch III Gentle Laser, respectively.

What happens during the treatment?
A topical or local anesthesia is used to prevent any pain or discomfort during micropigmentation process.

Is it painful?
We offer all patients a topical anesthetic for enhanced comfort since some areas of the face are more sensitive than others and pain thresholds vary among individuals.

How long is the recovery period?
The treated area will flake slightly as it heals and will need to be kept moist with Aquaphor for seven to ten days.

Will I need more than one treatment?
After your initial treatment, you can expect the pigment to fade 30 to 50 percent, as it does in most individuals. A "touch up" appointment will be scheduled approximately three weeks later to deepen the color.

Following breast reconstruction, many patients choose to have their nipple-areola complex reconstructed to match their natural breast. After selecting the proper pigment, the technician measures and outlines the area to be reconstructed. When the pigmentation is first applied it will seem darker than the natural areola. This will fade slightly over time, resulting in a natural look.

Patients with pigmentation loss from vitiligo, scars or burns may also benefit from micro-pigmentation. One session is usually sufficient to pigment an area of up to three square inches and can be performed using local anesthesia. When touchups are required, they may be done at a later date.

Most patients enjoy an almost immediate recovery and resume all normal activities within 24 hours. Topical antibiotic ointment is used for a few days. You will also be asked to refrain from applying make-up, avoid direct sunlight and avoid wearing contacts lenses for a few days. Some patients may experience a slight swelling in the area. This will subside with the use of a cool compress.

We apply special dyes through a delicate hand piece specifically designed for this procedure to accentuate your natural beauty. Using new micro-pigmentation techniques, eyebrows can be recreated using fine lines to stimulate real hair. Lips are highlighted to enhance their fullness, and blemishes and scars can be camouflaged.

Micro-pigmentation can also be used to simulate a natural nipple-areola complex after breast reconstruction, or place pigmentation in vitiligo patches. The pigments used for micro-pigmentation are available in a variety of earth and flesh tones, and can be mixed to closely match or highlight your skin tone or hair color. Keep in mind that micro-pigmentation is intended to enhance your lash line, lip line, or brow, not to replace your make-up.

What are spider and varicose veins?
Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are those tiny purple and red blood vessels found most commonly on the thighs or lower legs of women. They are hereditary and can form anywhere on the leg, from the top of the thigh to the ankle. Occasionally, spider veins appear on the face.

Varicose veins are larger. They can appear raised with a bluish color and can become quite painful. Although spider veins and varicose veins carry blood, they are not part of the venous valve system. Your spider veins and varicose veins can be eliminated permanently through a simple office procedure called Sclerotherapy.

What is Sclerotherapy?
The Sclerotherapy treatment was developed in the 1920's. During the procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein through a micro-needle. The tiny needle generally causes very little pain. The sclerosing solution causes the vein to blanch (turn white), then gradually disappear. A typical treatment may last for 15 to 20 minutes and consist of multiple injections. Injection Sclerotherapy may eliminate the need for an invasive surgical procedure.

Will it work on my veins?
Prior to treatment, we will review your complete medical history to determine how long you have had a problem with your veins and the severity of the problem. We need to know if the problem is exacerbated by physical activity and if there has been any prior surgery or treatment on your veins. The doctor will test to determine if the venous system is affected. If it is, surgery may be advised before Sclerotherapy is attempted. If the area to be treated can be saved, Sclerotherapy will be recommended.

How many treatments will I need?
Complete correction of the treated area is not expected on the first treatment. In most cases, about 50 - 70% of the treated vessels will be gone for good. However, new veins may appear and additional treatments are generally required for optimum results. These treatments may be in three-week intervals.

What is the recovery period like?
You may be asked to wear special heavy-duty stockings to help keep pressure on the veins. This will reduce bruising and help keep the treated veins closed. Bruises around the treated areas usually disappear after the first week. A tan or brownish pigment may persist for six to eight weeks when larger veins are involved. Occasionally, small clots can develop at the injection site. These are not a cause for concern and may be removed to allow healing to progress.

Patients are generally encouraged to resume normal activities immediately. We do ask that you refrain from vigorous activities for the first 24 hours. Walking is encouraged because it increases blood flow through the other veins. Although your final results may not be apparent for several months, most patients experience a 60% to 80% improvement.

What is the treatment like?
First, we thoroughly cleanse the area to be treated with alcohol. Then we mark the veins to be treated while you are standing.

The larger veins are usually treated first. Using a tiny syringe fitted with a micro-needle, your physician will inject a small amount of sclerosing agent into the vein. Sclerosing solution displaces the blood within the vein. It then causes irritation to the lining of the vein, making it swell shut. The needle is withdrawn and pressure to the area is applied immediately. While each vein may require several injections, most disappear in two weeks to two months.

Most Sclerotherapy patients report little if any discomfort. A few may experience a mild burning sensation when we inject the solution, but it stops in a few seconds.

Will my insurance cover the treatment?
The cost of Sclerotherapy depends on the number of treatments required. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, it may not be covered by your insurance. Some insurance companies will pay benefits if your pain and discomfort impedes your normal activities. Our office manager will be happy to discuss your insurance coverage with you.

Frequently Asked Questions - Cellulite Subcision
Comfort is enhanced with twilight sleep sedation in our outpatient surgery center. Multiple treatments may be desired for the best results. Bruising is expected and can last up to 10 or 12 weeks in some patients. Bruising is a positive effect. The more bruising, the better the result because it is during the healing process that new collagen formation occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions - CoolTouch III
Minimal discomfort is experienced as the CoolTouch III^TM Laser's patented technology utilizes a cryogen mist to protect and cool the skin.