Skin Treatments - Middle Tennessee Plastic Surgery

Botox® Treatments

Botox® is a relatively new procedure using Botulinum Toxin which was developed to treat the visual signs of aging by reducing or removing wrinkles. The procedure is considered a safe, effective way of treating aging skin. Common areas for Botox® injections include horizontal forehead furrows, vertical lines between the eyebrows and “crow’s feet” around the eyes. Botox® has proven to be the best non-surgical form of facial rejuvenation and is capable of producing phenomenal improvements in your appearance.

Reasons for Considering a Botox® Treatment

Excessive facial wrinkles.
Large wrinkles or furrows in your forehead.
Small wrinkles or “crow’s feet” around your eyes.
A vertical “frown line” between your eyebrows.

General Procedure

The procedure works by altering the facial muscles beneath the skin that are related to wrinkles. A cream with local anesthetic will be placed on your skin prior to treatment, and ice will be immediately applied upon completion of the Botox® treatment. Typically a small amount (1-2 cc’s) of Botox® is injected into the area of the wrinkle. Botox® works by blocking the impulses from the nerve to the facial muscles, thereby relaxing them. The result is the underlying facial muscles relax and the skin begins to smooth out. The effects of a Botox® treatment will last approximately three to six months after which the patient may choose to repeat the procedure.

Recovery Process

Patients generally return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure, however following the post-procedure guidelines will dramatically reduce the length and intensity of the recovery period. Patients should avoid engaging in heavy physical exercise, applying cosmetics, or laying down flat for a minimum of 4 hours after the injections. It is also advisable to avoid rubbing or massaging the injected area for at least 24 hours.

Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is an aesthetic procedure performed to achieve better skin tone and to remove fine lines, especially on the face. The chemical solution removes outer layers of skin which are damaged by age, sun, acne, wrinkles, or pigmentation problems. Removing the outer skin prompts the body to generate a new layer of skin cells which are tainted by the previous skin condition. Chemical peels may not be appropriate for darker skin complexions.

Reasons for considering a Chemical Peel

Correct age spots and pigmentation problems.
Lighten scars (especially from acne).
Treat precancerous skin lesions.

General Procedure

At the time of your procedure, any active skin disease, infection, or acne needs to be under control in order to maximize results. There are several different types of chemical solutions which can be used, ranging from a mild solution to a very strong one. The surgeon will select what is best for the patient based on their skin condition, color, and desired result.

During the procedure, the skin is first cleansed of oils. A solution is then carefully applied and is allowed to remain on the skin for a short time in order to remove the layers of damaged skin. At this point, the skin will turn white, a frost-like effect. The skin is then neutralized and cleansed. Finally, an ointment is applied to the skin to aid in healing.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. An ointment and dressings are applied immediately following surgery to aid in the healing process and to minimize swelling. The skin will have a pinkish color, and a thin crust may form over the area that was treated. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with the procedure, which can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions given by the surgeon. Recovery time varies depending upon the extent of the chemical peel.

Microneedling

Microneedling revitalizes skin by creating tiny, controlled micro-injuries, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This minimally invasive procedure reduces fine lines, acne scars, and improves skin texture and tone. Expect mild redness post-treatment, with optimal results achieved through multiple sessions. Enhance your skin’s natural radiance with microneedling.