BOTOX® Costmetic, a bacterial product, is useful for limiting the activity of certain overactive facial muscles which lead to unwanted deep wrinkles. Originally used for the treatment of crossed eyes, BOTOX® Costmetic is now used for limiting the action of muscles of the face, which cause frown lines of the nose and forehead, as well as 'crows feet' lines around the eyes. The mechanism of action is reversible weakness of targeted muscles.

The injections are relatively painless and show their effect within 7 days, lasting 4-6 months in most patients. BOTOX® Costmetic in the small doses used for cosmetic muscle relaxation is very safe and effective. When BOTOX® Costmetic is used on specific muscles around the eyes and over the lower forehead, the results can mimic the results of a browlift in some patients. Side effects are minimal, and complications, such as allergic
reactions, are rare.

COLLAGEN is a natural structural protein complex found in all mammals. The structure of collagen is complex, but very similar in humans and higher animals, including cattle and pigs. The purified sterile collagen used in cosmetic plastic surgery is extracted from cowhides and packaged in convenient small quantity syringes. Collagen is useful as a filler to build up skin depressions associated with wrinkles, and also as a non-permanent soft tissue augmentation material to highlight the lips.

Skin testing is necessary at least one month prior to formal collagen injection treatment to test for the small risk of an allergic reaction. Because the injected collagen is not exactly the same as native human collagen, the immune system will gradually digest it, preventing permanent incorporation. The injected collagen may last for over a year, but in some individuals will only last for several months.

PEELS: For centuries, people have sought smoother, more beautiful skin. Chemical peels can enhance the skin by erasing, fading or reducing sun damage, fine wrinkles, acne and other imperfections. New techniques and technologies offer safe and effective ways to improve your complexion.

Chemical peeling is a process whereby a chemical solution is applied to the surface of the skin to peel away the top layers, revealing a fresh new skin surface. Peels are available in a variety of strengths. Healing time varies depending on the type and depth of the peel that is best for your skin and the type of correction needed.

MICRODERMABRASION (also known as particle resurfacing and by other names, including Power Peels, Derma Peels and Parisian Peels) is a relatively new skin polishing technique. The operator uses a handheld device that blasts fine particles of sandlike crystals (aluminum oxide or table salt) against the client's skin and vacuums away the used crystals, dirt and dead surface skin. Microdermabrasion is also called a "lunchtime peel," because it takes only 20 to 30 minutes for a full-face treatment. (The procedure also can be used on the neck and chest.) The patient can then return to work with only mild skin redness, which can be covered up right away with makeup. The redness will fade on its own after an hour or two.

This procedure is not painful (patients feel a slight tingling as it is being done), requires no anesthesia and will not adversely lighten or darken African American skin, as some exfoliating treatments do. The treatment leaves the skin with a healthy glow. To achieve optimal benefits, five to 10 treatments, every seven to 10 days, are needed; most patients see improvement after the fourth or fifth session. After the initial series, periodic maintenance treatments (from once a month to once every three months, as needed) are often recommended.

PHOTOFACIAL/PHOTOBODY: This 30-minute procedure, performed by our trained medical staff, uses a machine which emits intense pulses of light that penetrate to all levels of the skin, causing collagen and blood vessels under the top layer to constrict. The regimen calls for a series of five full-face light treatments at three-week intervals. Minor discomfort, described as similar to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin, may be felt during treatment. A topical cream can be applied prior to the treatment to eliminate most discomfort. Redness following the treatment lasts less than 24 hours for most people (in rare cases, no longer than three days). Facial swelling for three to five days occasionally occurs in persons with severely sun-damaged skin. Visible reduction of fine lines and wrinkles occurs gradually, over the next few weeks after treatment.

fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth, shallow acne scars, age spots, broken blood vessels, rosacea and sun damage. This procedure is thought to reduce large pores and dark circles around the eyes and is especially effective in subduing chronic facial redness. It also can be used to treat sun damage and weathered areas on the neck, arms and chest, as well as the back of hands.

Dr. Sikorski offers complimentary consultations to
determine which procedure is best for you. Call: 949.448.0487