Chemical peels have been a leading skincare treatment for centuries. They depend on the skin’s amazing ability for self-regeneration and -repair. They address skin concerns as varied as acne, dark spots, sallow discoloration, fine lines, coarse wrinkles, and texture.
Chemical peels range from superficial to medium to deep.
A superficial peel affects only the top layer of the skin and is characterized by flaking or peeling of the skin. These superficial peels are helpful for light exfoliation, acne and pigment in the most superficial part of the skin.
A medium peel goes deeper into the skin than a superficial peel. When peeling experts say “medium,” they mean that the peel will result in wounding of the entire top layer of the skin (the epidermis), extending to the second layer of the skin (papillary dermis). The skin responds to the wound by creating collagen. This is why medium-depth peels help turn back the clock by minimizing sun damage, fine lines, deeper wrinkles, uneven skin texture, pigmentation concerns (brown spots), enlarged pores, and other signs of aging. Medium peels are particularly helpful for sun-damaged skin. One example of a medium-depth peel is the combination of solid CO2 (dry ice) + TCA 35% chemical peel.
The Solid CO2 + TCA 35% chemical peel is a two-step treatment. The first step is freezing the skin with solid CO2. This breaks down the epidermal barrier, allowing the TCA to penetrate more evenly into the papillary dermis in the second step. After applying dry ice, TCA 35% is applied to the skin in layers until the skin has a ‘white frost.’ The more solid the frost, the deeper the penetration. The frost stage typically lasts about 15 min.
After undergoing a CO2 + TCA35% medium-depth chemical peel, the skin changes are quite predictable.
By day three, the epidermis has died, and the underlying dermis has started the wound-healing process. This is characterized by redness, inflammation, and mild swelling.
On day 7, the epidermis has replaced itself with fresh new skin. In the meantime, the old skin sloughs away. The slough starts around areas with more movement, such as around the mouth, gradually spreading outwards. This usually lasts for about a week.
By day 10, the skin is fully healed, allowing for the resumption of regular skincare routines and the use of products like tretinoin, as the skin is no longer sensitive.
At 30 days, new collagen is apparent, and collagen production continues over subsequent weeks and months.
At 90 days, there is an organized band of new collagen in the papillary dermis. The thickness of this band correlates with the strength and depth of the peel.
The ideal candidate has significant sun damage and a fair- to medium-skin tone. The depth of the injury can cause pigmentary issues in darker skin types. The ideal candidate also must have proper expectations, the ability to have downtime, and the ability to follow post-treatment instructions, such as refraining from picking at the skin and following strict sun protection.
It is important to remember that medium-depth chemical peel is a controlled injury to the skin and should be performed by someone who has a deep understanding of the skin and the different depths of chemical peels, such as a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. If you are interested in experiencing the amazing results of this chemical peel for yourself, schedule your consultation with Dr. Chiang at Integrated Aesthetics today.
Many of us embark on personal wellness journeys, often revolving around dieting and exercise. While some may find success in sustainable lifestyle changes, others face challenges in maintaining long-term transformations. In such cases, pharmacologic medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can offer an extra boost when coupled with these lifestyle modifications.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, promoting insulin production in response to food, signaling fullness to the brain, and impacting gastric emptying. Tirzepatide, on the other hand, operates on two fronts by mimicking GIP, another hormone stimulating insulin and promoting a sense of fullness. Together, these medications enhance their potential impact on diabetes and weight management.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide work by increasing insulin production and decreasing glucagon from the liver. This dual action reduces hunger signals from the brain, resulting in increased energy levels and effective weight loss.
Incorporating more exercise, adopting a balanced diet, and avoiding processed foods are crucial lifestyle adjustments. However, due to the impact on digestion, Semaglutide may lead to gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. Maintaining a balanced diet that aligns with the medication’s effects can help prevent and manage these side effects, ensuring a more successful weight loss journey.
Consistency is key in any weight loss journey. While you may start to see some benefits within four weeks of taking Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, significant effects on initial body weight may take up to three months with improved exercise and eating habits.
If traditional diet and exercise programs have proven challenging, these medications could be a viable option. Being well-informed about your weight loss journey is essential for success.
The duration of medication use depends on your weight management goals. It is crucial to work towards a healthy, balanced, and sustainable lifestyle while on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide. Depending on the gap between your starting point and desired goal, you may be on the medication for six months to a year. Once your goal is reached, a gradual reduction in dosage or frequency may be considered to maintain your success.
We are committed to supporting your goals for success on your weight loss journey. Schedule a consultation today to explore whether Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is the right fit for you. Remember, the key to lasting success lies in the harmonious combination of medication and sustainable lifestyle changes. Let us help you unlock your path to healthier living.
Are you longing for a flatter and more contoured abdomen? Despite putting in hours at the gym and following a healthy diet, stubborn excess skin and sagging muscles can sometimes be challenging to eliminate. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution to achieve a toned midsection, tummy tuck surgery might be the answer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between a reverse tummy tuck, traditional tummy tuck, and corsetplasty, as well as what to expect before and after the procedure.
The reverse tummy tuck is a less common variation of the traditional tummy tuck. It is primarily focused on addressing sagging skin and excess fat in the upper abdomen. During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision along the lower edge of the breast or just below the breasts, removing the excess skin and tightening the upper abdominal area. The reverse tummy tuck is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate sagging in the upper abdomen.
The traditional tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a widely performed surgical procedure that targets both the upper and lower abdominal areas. It is an ideal choice for individuals with significant excess skin and muscle laxity in the abdomen. The surgeon makes an incision low on the abdomen, usually along the bikini line, to remove excess skin, tighten abdominal muscles, and contour the entire midsection. The traditional tummy tuck offers comprehensive results and is a popular choice for those seeking a complete abdominal transformation.
Corsetplasty is a specialized tummy tuck technique that focuses on improving the appearance of the waistline. This procedure is suitable for patients who have undergone massive weight loss and are left with loose, sagging skin around the waist area. The surgeon creates multiple vertical incisions along the midsection, resembling the lacing on a corset. Through these incisions, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to achieve a more defined waistline.
Concerns about scarring are common among tummy tuck candidates. The location and extent of scarring will vary depending on the type of tummy tuck performed:
Achieving a natural-looking belly button is a crucial aspect of a successful tummy tuck procedure. The belly button’s appearance can significantly impact the overall outcome, as an unnatural or misshapen belly button can be a giveaway of cosmetic surgery. An experienced and skilled surgeon will pay close attention to creating a natural-looking belly button that complements your body’s proportions.
Before the tummy tuck procedure, you will have a consultation with Dr. Young Cho. During this appointment, your surgeon will assess your medical history, examine your abdomen, and discuss your aesthetic goals. They will also provide pre-operative instructions, which may include adjusting medications and quitting smoking to ensure a smooth and successful surgery.
Following the tummy tuck procedure, performed by Dr. Young Cho, you can expect some initial swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions, which may include wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activities during the recovery period. It’s essential to follow these instructions diligently to promote proper healing and achieve the best possible results.
In conclusion, a tummy tuck surgery can be a life-changing experience for individuals looking to achieve a flatter and more contoured abdomen. Whether you opt for a reverse tummy tuck, traditional tummy tuck, or corsetplasty, the procedure can provide transformative benefits and boost your self-confidence. Remember, selecting a skilled and experienced surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome, especially when it comes to crafting a natural-looking belly button. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and embark on the journey to a more confident you.
Are you dreaming of plump, luscious lips that make heads turn? In the world of cosmetic enhancements, achieving the perfect pout has become more accessible than ever. From lip fillers to lip flips and lip lifts, there are various techniques to enhance your lips and achieve the look you desire. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the differences between lip filler, lip flip, and lip lift, along with the various filler techniques to achieve a naturally enhanced lip.
Lip filler is a popular and non-surgical cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the volume and shape of the lips. The procedure involves injecting a hyaluronic acid-based filler into the lips, providing a plumping effect that enhances their appearance. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body and helps to retain moisture, making it a safe and effective option for lip enhancement. The results of lip fillers are temporary, lasting typically between 6 to 12 months, depending on individual factors and the specific product used.
The lip flip is another non-invasive technique aimed at enhancing the upper lip’s appearance. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume to the lips, the lip flip involves injecting a neurotoxin, often Botox, into the muscles surrounding the upper lip. This relaxes the muscles, causing the lip’s border to “flip” slightly upward, giving the illusion of a fuller upper lip. The lip flip is an excellent option for those looking for a subtle enhancement and can be combined with lip fillers for a more comprehensive result.
The lip lift is a surgical procedure that focuses on increasing the visible height of the upper lip. As we age, the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose can elongate, leading to a less youthful appearance. During a lip lift, a plastic surgeon removes a small amount of skin from just above the upper lip, lifting and shortening the lip to create a more defined cupid’s bow and youthful appearance. Unlike lip fillers and lip flips, the lip lift is a permanent solution.
When opting for lip fillers, the goal should always be a natural-looking enhancement that complements your facial features. Here are some filler techniques to achieve precisely that:
In conclusion, lip enhancement is an exciting and transformative journey that offers various options to achieve the lips of your dreams. Whether you choose lip fillers, lip flips, or lip lifts, understanding the differences between these techniques and working with an experienced professional, like Dr. Melissa Chiang or Dr. Young Cho, is essential for a safe and satisfying outcome. Their expertise in cosmetic procedures ensures that you receive the highest level of care and achieve the results you desire.
Moreover, if you’re also considering achieving fuller, natural-looking lips, their skillful approach can help you attain your goals. With their guidance, you can achieve a beautifully enhanced appearance that complements your facial aesthetics and boosts your confidence.
Remember, the key to a successful lip enhancement and achieving fuller lips is to embrace your unique features and aim for a naturally enhanced result. Dr. Melissa Chiang or Dr. Young Cho will work closely with you to understand your goals and create a customized treatment plan that aligns with your desires. So, go ahead and embark on your lip-enhancing journey with confidence and excitement. Happy lip enhancing!
Our faces develop wrinkles and deep lines as we age. Gravity takes its toll on our skin, making it less flexible (and probably a touch more obese). Collagen, a material produced in profusion by a young body but much less abundantly as we get older, is responsible for the lack of suppleness in the skin.
A group of therapies called as fillers has been created to offset the effect of this lack of collagen and to fill in the creases. The first fillers were based on injecting collagen into the body to aid with skin healing and suppleness. However, their effects tended to be transient (three months or less). As a result, alternatives were considered.
Hyaluronic Acid is a kind of hyaluronic acid that helps.
One of the earliest HA-based fillers, is still popular since it may be administered everywhere and is readily broken down by the body. The active ingredient (HA) aids in the repair of skin damage, particularly during sunburn recovery. The results lasted up to six months, approximately twice as long as a single direct collagen injection.
Is a hyaluronic acid-based filler that was developed as part of a second generation of hyaluronic acid-based fillers. It had a better consistency, which meant it didn’t seem lumpy under the skin like other fillers did.
Juvéderm dermal fillers are a hyaluronic acid-based injectable gel that can add volume to your face at the injection site. Juvéderm can plump your lips, smooth out the “parentheses” or “marionette” lines that run from the corner of your nose to the corner of your mouth, and boost the fullness of your cheeks.
Even though it was effective, Juvederm only lasted around six months. As a result, manufacturers continued to conduct research in order to improve the product.
CaHA is an acronym for “beyond HA.”
is a calcium-enriched, longer-lasting hyaluronic acid-based filler for non-invasive cosmetic surgery. The active components accomplish two goals:
is particularly effective in treating deeper lines because it is supplied as a gel containing the active ingredient as well as calcium-based microspheres. All of this lays the groundwork for a long-term treatment (up to 2 years). The durability is due in part to the time it takes to break down the CaHA components, as well as the fact that collagen is produced surrounding the microspheres.
Radiesseis not suitable for use around the lips, while being a good all-around filler in many ways. It can, however, be utilized to make drastic modifications like jawline contouring and minimizing the appearance of dark areas under the eyes.
Unlike other longer-lasting treatments based on a similar active component and structural element, the Radiesse application therapy takes less than an hour and produces rapid benefits.
While the procedure is typically painless, a dental block or local anesthetic may be administered in particularly sensitive areas to keep the patient as comfortable as possible.
Radiesse corrects wrinkles and folds in the face and hands with calcium-based microspheres. Your body produces collagen as a result of the microspheres. Collagen is a protein found naturally in the body that gives skin its strength and flexibility.
While the aging process itself cannot be changed, there are non-invasive treatments that can slow down the hands of time and help us to appear younger longer. Your skin can begin to loosen on the face and neck. Crow’s feet and forehead wrinkles become more visible and defined jaws begin to soften beneath the chin. Factors such as heredity, personal habits, sun exposure, and simply the pull of gravity can expedite the aging of the face. As generations of people grow older, the popularity of cosmetic surgery procedures such as neck lifts and facelifts begin to grow as well.
However, what many don’t know is that there are a variety of procedures that require little to no recovery time and are minimally invasive approaches to fighting the signs of aging. In this article, we will cover the different non-surgical cosmetic options that will keep you looking younger for longer.
Dermal fillers are a minimally invasive procedure that plumps thin lips, fills in shallow contours of the cheek areas, and diminishes wrinkles and creases in the face. The most popular types of dermal filler are ones made with hyaluronic acid (HA), naturally produced in the body as a repetitive sequence of two modified simple sugars. Two popular types of HA fillers are Juvederm and Restylane. These fillers work hard to replenish lost collagen and elastin fibers that create that full, soft look in the face. There are many different varieties of HA fillers; some that are thicker than others to provide different amounts of volume and texture. There are other fillers that work to help the body produce its own collagen. Radiesse, a calcium hydroxyapatite filler, and Sculptra, a poly-l-lactic acid filler are both used to counteract wrinkles while gradually stimulating collagen growth. Just like HA fillers, these two types of fillers contain biocompatible substances that are completely and naturally absorbed into the body. Dermal fillers work best to combat early to moderate signs of aging such as sunken eyes, wrinkles, creases, and shallow areas in the jowls and cheeks.
Botulinum type A injections, also known as injectable neurotoxins, are probably the most well-known cosmetic treatment to fight wrinkles. Popular brands of this type of treatment include Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. Neurotoxin treatments are the single most popular type of U.S. cosmetic procedure. They are primarily used to fix dynamic wrinkles – wrinkles that form as a result of daily facial movements over time such as frowning, squinting, and smiling. Neurotoxins block those nerve impulses to the muscles preventing those movements and the wrinkles that appear as a result. This type of procedure is best for those who are seeking a more youthful look, but would like to reverse the signs caused by concerned looks and frowning. Neurotoxins can treat areas and provide patients with a more refreshed, pleasant look in addition to smoother skin.
Skin tightening procedures can improve skin laxity and skin quality. Treatments can range from laser procedures to treatments that emit sound waves or radio frequency waves to encourage collagen production deep underneath the skin. This results in tighter, firmer areas on the face and around the neck as well as a smoother complexion. There are several different types of skin tightening procedures to choose from that deliver different levels of precision. A procedure Integrated Aesthetics is proud to offer is Ultherapy, which uses ultrasound to emit sound waves deep in to the skin to lift and tighten loose and sagging skin without surgery.
Since Ultherapy uses ultrasound to image and treat the skin, doctors are able to treat the area with great precision giving patients great results. Integrated Aesthetics also offers a laser resurfacing treatment known as Venus Viva that not only builds collagen but repairs the surface of the skin as well. Venus Viva delivers small ‘pins’ of energy, bits at a time, to make the procedure both comfortable and effective for the patient. Skin tightening procedures work best to combat sagging skin, wrinkles, and scarring on the face and full face and neck. These treatments encourage the body’s own healing response to gradually restore memory to the skin.
If patients do decide that they are ready for plastic surgery, a face lift or neck lift are popular options that can correct skin and muscle laxity in the face. Face lift surgery repositions tissues that have grown loose and saggy over time. Additionally, jowls, excess skin, deep wrinkles, and creases are treated with a facelift and produce the most long-lasting results. Face lifts are often combined with a neck lift or liposuction procedure to correct neck and jawline definition. During an initial consultation, Dr. Cho will be able to explain details of a customized face lift procedure that can target specific areas in the face. For a complete facial rejuvenation treatment, a face lift with neck lift along with additional non-surgical treatments may be suggested to your treatment plan to complement results and keep you looking younger for years to come.
If you have any questions about the different anti-aging procedures and treatments, please feel free to give us a call!
It might be tough to tell fact from fiction when it comes to facelifts and facelift alternatives because there is so much information available. Here are the answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding getting a facelift, ranging from how to identify if a facelift is good for you to the best approach to obtain long-term benefits.
There’s been a lot of chatter lately about how certain facial exercises may “tone” and “tighten” your face, similar to how abs and biceps workouts can tone and tighten them. Regrettably, the two notions are not synonymous.
Repetitive facial motions can exacerbate indications of age such as lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin, and no amount of face exercise will be able to eliminate these prevalent indicators of aging. If these are your primary cosmetic concerns, a facelift or other minimally invasive procedures such as injectable wrinkle treatments would most likely be your best bets.
So, if facial workouts aren’t working, how do you know when it’s time for a facelift? If the appearance of drooping skin or deep lines and creases is affecting your self-confidence, or if minimally invasive therapies aren’t cutting it, a facelift may be the most effective answer.
There is no upper age limit for obtaining a facelift. Anyone of any age, as long as they are in overall excellent health, could be a potential candidate for this operation. When you despise the appearance of your neck and jawline, it’s time for a facelift. A properly-performed facelift done by a trained specialist corrects the loose skin and neck muscles as well as extra fat under the chin like nothing else short of a facelift.
Plan on taking it easy for the first few days after your facelift and having someone else to assist you. Stitches are normally removed after the first week, and the healing period is usually around ten days. Around the two-week point, most people are ready to return to work and other typical activities.
Make sure you’re eating nutritious, nourishing foods, getting plenty of rest, and following your plastic surgeon’s specific recovery advice to assist speed up your recovery.
Although no cosmetic surgeon can guarantee the exact length of time your results will last, most facelifts last for years before requiring a touch-up. Stay out of the sun as much as possible, apply sunscreen, eat a nutritious diet, and see a skincare specialist about which products are best for your skin.
For optimal skin health, you might wish to include minimally invasive skin care procedures like laser rejuvenation in your regular beauty routine.
The first step in deciding whether or not a facelift is correct for you is to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon. When narrowing down your search, look for board certification as well as substantial expertise conducting plastic operations such as facelifts and eyelid surgery. It’s also a good idea to schedule an in-office consultation with your top two or three choices to assist you decide.
Direct-pay is a model for medical care that creates a direct relationship between the doctor and the patient. The reason why this model is growing in popularity is that patients and doctors are tired of the barriers and surprises that come from third-party payers. Third-party barriers include limitations on who you can see for your care or whether you have to see your primary care doctor before seeing a specialist. Surprises are usually financial: months later, you receive an unexpected bill for a service that you received.
In the direct-pay model, you decide which physician that you see and when you see her. The physician sets her own pricing. There are no surprise bills, as you will be informed about the cost of the visit and any procedures in advance.
Patients who have commercial insurance can use direct-pay services. They will be responsible for the cost, and, if they have out-of-network benefits, their insurance company may reimburse them for some or all of the costs. Patients with high-deductible plans can use their HSA to pay for their direct-pay visits.
Many of Dr. Chiang’s patients have insurance, but they come to her for the reasons above: her expertise, her bedside manner, and the convenience. Patients with insurance are responsible for the cost, and, depending on their out-of-network benefits, they can put in a request for their insurance company to reimburse them for some or all of the costs. Patients with high-deductible plans can use their HSA to pay for their direct-pay visits.
A third important benefit is convenience. Appointments are available the same week and often the same day. If you have an emergent or urgent matter, Dr. Chiang will be able to see you.
Without the demands of third-party payers, Dr. Chiang spends her time directed at taking good care of you.
Dr. Chiang can see Medicare patients, but they must understand that neither government insurance or secondary insurance will reimburse for her services. It is difficult for Dr. Chiang to see Medicaid patients because Medicaid will not pay for any medications that she prescribes.
A typical new patient visit ranges from $175 to $250. If any procedures are performed, the office always informs the patient about additional costs and obtains the consent of the patient before proceeding.
Please call the office at 281-404-5454 to schedule your appointment!
There are a variety of reasons why a woman might choose to have breast augmentation, as well as a variety of options to consider while planning a procedure. Here are five suggestions to assist you in making these choices and preparing for your breast augmentation surgery.
You will have numerous choices about breast augmentation during your visit with Dr. Hlavacek. What matters most, however, is what is best for you. Your decision to have breast augmentation surgery, as well as the procedures you choose, should be based on how you want to look and feel, not on how someone else wants you to look or on trying to imitate another person’s looks. You will have a better outcome and a higher level of personal satisfaction if you make your decisions personal. Ask yourself, “Is this the best choice for me?” with every decision leading up to your surgery.
If you have any queries, don’t be afraid to ask them. Dr. Hlavacek wants you to be well-informed at all times. Bring up any concerns you have about your treatment, preparation, or recuperation.
Please inform Dr. Hlavacek of any pre-existing medical issues or drugs you are currently taking during your consultation. You and Dr. Hlavacek will be able to make the best possible decisions for your operation by providing a comprehensive list of health conditions and drugs, reducing risks and consequences.
Several choices will be presented to you during your session. You can have a more focused discussion with Dr. Hlavacek about your goals and the best strategy to get optimum outcomes if you explore some of your options before to consultation.
Prior to surgery, you must make the following important decisions:
incision placement — in the armpit, in the crease under the breast, or beneath the areola type and size of implants (saline or silicone) and size
Whether the implant is behind or in front of the muscle is a matter of personal preference.
Whether or not you’ll have a breast lift as part of your breast augmentation procedure
Each of these alternatives comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In leading you to the best options for you, Dr. Hlavacek will assess your objectives, body size and proportion, and medical history.
Breast augmentation surgery has a low risk of complications. It is, however, still surgery, with all of the hazards that entails. While pain, bruising, and swelling are all normal side effects of surgery, there are also other dangers to consider. Although the majority of women experience no concerns, issues such as increased scar tissue, loss of sensation, changes in sensitivity, infection, and asymmetry can occur. During your visit, Dr. Hlavacek will talk about these options with you.
Many routine activities can be resumed within days of your treatment, but others will have to wait several weeks. If you have little children, you may want assistance in the weeks following surgery because you won’t be able to raise or carry them as easily as you typically would. You won’t be able to move large objects like grocery bags immediately soon, either.
Make sure your family and friends are aware that you will require assistance throughout your recuperation period before you undergo surgery. This could entail enlisting the assistance of a family member or friend to assist with children, grocery shopping, or household duties.
You will have a faster recovery, fewer issues, and a better overall experience if you prepare ahead and have assistance in place prior to your operation.
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