FAQs
H2glO FACIAL
What is an H2glo?
The H2glO facial removes dead skin cells and extracts impurities while simultaneously infusing healthy serums and moisture into the skin. It finishes with an ultra-hydrating mask and LED light treatment. The treatment is soothing, refreshing, non-irritating, and will give you a beautiful fresh glow. It reduces the effects of aging and environmental irritants on the skin and brings a renewed younger look.
Am I a candidate for this treatment?
The H2glO treatment is designed for all skin types. Even the most sensitive skin easily tolerates this treatment. Envy providers will choose specific serums and customize the treatment for your unique skin conditions and needs.
Is there any downtime or pain involved?
The treatment feels like a gentle sucking sensation on your face. You may be slightly pink after this treatment but it will resolve within a couple of hours. You may put on make-up, and return to your normal activities following this treatment; there is no downtime. And always remember to wear your sunscreen!
What results can I expect?
Many people report seeing visible skin refinement and an even, radiant skin tone after just one treatment.
How many treatments are recommended to see results?
Ongoing skin care treatments are always necessary to maintain youthful glowing skin. We recommend one treatment per month for improving ongoing texture and tone, as well as addressing the extremely dry climate of Colorado. Exfoliating the dead skin and replenishing all the hydration that is lost on a regular basis will keep your skin fresh and bright.
Can I get an H2glO Facial if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no definitive studies for or against receiving the treatment during pregnancy. We request you check with your physician and bring written documentation for clearance.
REZENERATE NANO-FACIAL
What is a Nano-Facial?
Nano infusion facial therapy is a non-invasive therapy that enhances the skin’s product absorption by 97%. A nano infusion pen is used to create microscopic pathways in the epidermis, allowing more nutrients to penetrate the lower layers of the skin. Rezenerate Nano Facial is the newest skin care modality on the market today, bringing you the same great results as more invasive treatments without any of the negatives and downtime. Rezenerate combines innovative technology with pure, high-quality products to deliver the best facial results possible. When high-quality products are driven into the skin via Rezenerate technology they become exponentially more effective, delivering results you never thought you could achieve.
Is a Rezenerate Nano-Facial right for me?
A nano-facial is great for those who are not candidates for more invasive procedures, and are not comfortable with more aggressive procedures that require numbing or just simply want a great infusion of high quality products. If you are needing a procedure with quick results and no downtime the nano facial is a great choice.
What are the benefits of a Rezenerate Nano-Facial?
Rezenerate drives product into the skin reducing fine lines and other signs of aging, and helps to clear blemishes and skin imperfections. It hydrates malnourished, and dehydrated skin, while improving sunspots and uneven skin tone and texture.
Does a Rezenerate Nano-Facial hurt?
There is no pain, inflammation, bleeding, or discomfort. A nano-facial is very safe, non-invasive and only affects the epidermis, making it both painless and very effective. Nano infusion is safe for all skin types and tones, and there is no risk of post traumatic hyperpigmentation, nor is there any downtime.
Who is NOT a candidate for a Rezenerate Nano-Facial ?
This treatment is not recommended for those with active acne or anyone who is on Accutane or has been in the last 12 months.
MICROGEN FACIAL
Microgen = Microdermabrasion meets Oxygen Facial
What is a Microgen Facial?
The skin is first exfoliated with a microdermabrasion treatment then followed by an intense oxygen treatment. Intended to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin, an oxygen facial infuses oxygen, various serums, and hyaluronic acid into the skin for increased circulation and a more hydrated appearance. Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the human body and is thought to lessen the effects of aging by tightening and hydrating the skin.
What are the benefits of a Microgen Facial?
Oxygen offers numerous benefits for a healthy-looking, radiant complexion. Not only is it known to help revitalize the appearance of collagen-depleted skin and add brightness to an otherwise lackluster complexion, but it also helps clean out clogged pores and clarify troubled skin. An oxygen facial will deliver a gorgeous glow and a fresh, uplifted look.
How does a Microgen Facial work?
First a microdermabrasion is performed to remove the dead skin cell at the surface of the skin. Then a papaya and pineapple enzyme is massaged in that will gently exfoliate removing any residual dead skin cells and stimulate circulation and collagen production deep under the skin. Next comes the oxygenation, a masque applied to the face, which will begin to fizz and bubble while it oxygenates your skin at a cellular level. A pure plant stem cell enhancer is then applied to further rejuvenate and prevent signs of aging. The treatment is topped off with hydration an SPF to protect your skin from further sun damage.
What does oxygen do for your skin?
Oxygen facials are said to help improve blood circulation to the face, which can help skin look bright and plump. Oxygen is known to accelerate wound healing and will also kill certain bacteria which is great for calming acne.
How long do Microgen Facial results last?
Oxygen facials offer short-term but visible and satisfying improvement in overall skin quality. Patients can enjoy their radiant results for up to one month, although cumulative treatments will produce better and longer-lasting results.
Can I get a Microgen Facial if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no definitive studies for or against receiving this treatment during pregnancy. We request you check with your physician and bring written documentation for clearance.
MICRODERMABRASION
What is microdermabrasion?
A microdermabrasion treatment uses a minimally abrasive instrument to gently exfoliate your skin, removing the thicker, uneven outer layer of skin and offers many benefits.
What is the benefit of microdermabrasion?
By removing the dead skin cells from your outermost layer of skin microdermabrasion promotes new cells to regenerate more quickly than they otherwise would. The result is skin that looks firmer, more toned, and more youthful.
How long do the effects of microdermabrasion last?
The effects of this treatment typically last for about 4 weeks. The length of time results last varies depending on your age and how well you respond to the treatment. A cellular turnover cycle typically takes about 4 weeks, thus after 4 weeks, you will have a new layer of dead skin cells at the surface of your skin thus needing exfoliation.
Is a microdermabrasion facial painful?
Microdermabrasion doesn’t hurt. You may feel mild discomfort at most. The procedure has been compared to the rough lick of a cat’s tongue.
What are the side effects of microdermabrasion?
Common side effects of microdermabrasion include mild tenderness, mild swelling, and redness, these generally go away within a few hours after the treatment. You might be advised to use a moisturizer to minimize dry and flaky skin post-procedure. Minor bruising may also occur, although unlikely. Microdermabrasion can sometimes cause breakouts as the bacteria and dirt is drawn from your skin to leave you with brighter, younger-looking skin.
What should you avoid after a microdermabrasion?
Don’t use any other exfoliating products for 3-5 days after your treatment. You should avoid touching, rubbing, or picking your skin which can slow the healing process. Do not use products with glycolic acid, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or topical acne treatments for 3-5 days.
What should I do before my microdermabrasion?
It is recommended to stop taking aspirin-based medicines, using Retin-A, Renova, Differin or glycolic acid products prior to your treatment. You should avoid smoking a week before microdermabrasion; this will help to improve blood flow. Also avoid sunbathing and waxing.
DERMAPLANE
What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning uses a surgical blade to remove the top layer of dead skin cells with the fine vellus hairs on the surface of the skin. This triggers regeneration and allows products to be able to better penetrate into the skin.
What are the benefits of dermaplane?
Dermaplane improves texture and tone, gives you better penetration of your at-home skin care products and your make-up will go on smooth and flawless.
What are the side effects of dermaplaning?
The possible side effects include breakouts, risk of infection, redness, and irritation. Most side effects will resolve within a few hours.
Will hair grow back thicker after dermaplaning?
NO! This is a myth! Dermaplane is most commonly known for removing the unsightly fine layer of hair, but it DOES NOT trigger thicker or darker hair regrowth (despite the rumors). The hair follicles you are born with are the hair follicles you have. Cutting the hair at the surface of the skin does not change the hair follicle and how your hair grows.
Does dermaplaning hurt?
Dermaplaning involves light feathery strokes, you’ll find it to be pleasant and pain-free. Most patients report that it is far more comfortable than popular treatments like waxing, lasering, or threading.
Is dermaplaning the same as shaving?
You might think dermaplaning is just shaving your face. However, dermaplaning, unlike traditional shaving, uses a smaller blade to slough off dead skin cells in addition to removing wispy facial vellus hair, so skin is more even in tone and texture.
What should I avoid after dermaplaning?
We recommend you avoid sun exposure and extreme heat. Do not use scrubs or other exfoliators on the skin for 3-5 days. Avoid chlorine, swimming pools, and always use sunscreen. Apply serums and moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated.
BOTOX RED CARPET FACIAL
What is a Botox Red Carpet Facial?
A cocktail of hyaluronic acid, dermal fillers, antioxidants, stem cells, growth factors, vitamins, and neurotoxin are needled into the upper layers of skin to provide a lasting glow, intensive hydration, reduces the appearance of pores size, and restores youthful firmness that lasts for several months.
What does needling a neuromodulator (Botox / Dysport) do for my skin?
Neuromodulators, when needled superficially into the skin instead of injecting into muscles, give the skin a smooth texture, reduce fine lines on the surface, and also reduce the appearance of large pores for more refined-looking skin. It may also reduce oil production for patients with an oily skin type.
Does a Botox Facial hurt?
Your provider will apply numbing cream and allow it to take effect for 30 minutes. This will eliminate nearly any pain that may be associated with this treatment.
Is there any downtime after a Botox Facial?
After your treatment, your skin will likely be red. This is normal and to be expected. Redness usually lasts 24-48 hours. You may also have a little swelling in some areas. We prefer you stay out of any sunlight for 24-48 hours. After 48 hours you will be able to apply sunscreen and resume normal activities. A few days after your treatment your skin may become dry, we will provide a moisturizer to help with the dryness.
When will I see results?
The added Botox/Dysport will need to have ample time to take effect. You can expect to see results in 1-2 weeks (depending on your lifestyle and overall skin quality).
How long will my results last?
Your results will last as long as the product that is being used is indicated to last. For example, Botox lasts approximately 3-4 months, but the effects of the microneedling treatment itself will continue to stimulate collagen and elastin longer. Results are seen around 7 days after treatment and can be done as often as every 1-3 months, doing several treatments throughout the year will continue to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Are there any side effects or possible risks to a Botox Facial?
Microneedling is considered a safe treatment for all skin types. The side effects associated with microneedling are temporary swelling and redness.
Who is NOT a candidate for a Botox Facial?
We would not recommend a Botox Facial if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have active acne, or are using or have used Accutane in the last 12 months.
What is hyaluronic acid? And what does it do?
Hyaluronic (HA) is one of the most powerful hydrating ingredients used in skincare. It is a humectant—meaning it pulls water from the environment to the upper layers of the skin like a sponge. Hyaluronic acid molecules can attract up to 1,000 times their own weight in water, which is why they’re so effective at hydrating the skin and keeping it moist and dewy throughout the day. In this Colorado climate hydration is essential to keeping the skin from becoming dehydrated and dull, there is no such thing as too much hydration!
Does this treatment replace injecting Botox and dermal filler?
This treatment does not replace Botox/Dysport and fillers which are designed to temporarily fix a specific problems such as dynamic lines, loss of volume, and deep wrinkles. Instead, this treatment complements all rejuvenation treatments that improve long-term skin health. Botox applied into the dermis (not the muscle) helps shrink pore openings reducing the appearance of pore size.
MICRONEEDLING
Why should I get microneedling?
After the age of 20, a person produces about 1 percent less collagen in the skin each year. This procedure uses hyaluronic acid combined with stem cells and growth factors which are microneedled into the skin causing tiny wounds. Your body’s natural ability to heal will stimulate collagen and elastin production. Collagen plays a role in strengthening skin, as well as in elasticity and hydration. It is vital in maintaining a youthful appearance.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT) allows for a controlled process of the skin’s self-repair mechanism. Creating micro “injuries” in the skin triggers new collagen production thus improving the appearance of the skin. Microneedling is utilized to treat the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, minor trauma scars, hypo/hyperpigmentation, and improves the skin’s overall appearance. At Envy, our microneedling treatment uses peptides, stem cells, cytokines, and hyaluronic acid. Take your treatment to the next level by adding PRF to your treatment.
How long does an appointment for microneedling take?
A microneedling treatment takes 1 hour to complete. This time frame includes 30 minutes for topical numbing to be applied prior to treatment.
When will I begin to see results from my microneedling treatment?
Some patients notice tightening, and a more even tone to their skin, a week or two after their first treatment. For areas with deeper imperfections, results can be more subtle, and additional treatments may be required. Since Microneedling stimulates new collagen and elastin production, these results will continue to build for up to 6 months.
How long do results from microneedling results last?
It is important to realize that we cannot stop the aging process, we can only slow it down. With this in mind, results are not considered permanent, as natural aging will occur over time. Improvements from microneedling can be seen for several years after a series of treatments if continued recommended maintenance treatments are followed; results can also be prolonged with the correct at-home skin care maintenance.
It is recommended to get 2-3 microneedling treatments, as maintenance, per year after your initial series of treatments to combat loss of collagen and elastin.
What areas can I treat with microneedling?
Microneedling can essentially be used on any part of the body. The most popular areas to treat are the face, neck, and chest. Microneedling can also be effective on most types of scarring and stretch marks.
Is there any downtime after a microneedling treatment?
After your treatment, your skin will likely be red, this is normal and to be expected. Redness usually lasts from 24-48 hours. You may also have a little swelling in some areas. We prefer you stay inside and out of any sunlight for 24-48 hours. After 48 hours you will be able to apply sunscreen and resume normal activities. A few days after your treatment your skin may become dry, we will provide a moisturizer to help with the dryness.
Are there any side effects or possible risks to microneedling?
Microneedling is considered a safe treatment for all skin types. The side effects associated with microneedling are temporary swelling and redness.
What is hyaluronic acid? And what does it do?
Hyaluronic (HA) is one of the most powerful hydrating ingredients used in skincare. It is a humectant—meaning it pulls water from the environment to the upper layers of the skin like a sponge. Hyaluronic acid molecules can attract up to 1,000 times their own weight in water, which is why they’re so effective at hydrating the skin and keeping it moist and dewy throughout the day. In this Colorado climate hydration is essential to keeping the skin from becoming dehydrated and dull, there is no such thing as too much hydration.
Does this treatment replace injecting Botox/Dysport and dermal filler?
This treatment does not replace Botox/Dysport and fillers (designed to temporarily fix a specific problem such as wrinkles at rest, loss of volume, and deep wrinkles) but instead complements all rejuvenation treatments that improve long-term skin health.
Who is NOT a candidate for a microneedling ?
We would not recommend microneedling if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have active acne, or are using or have used Accutane in the last 12 months.
MICRONEEDLING WITH PRF (Plasma Rich Fibrin)
What is microneedling with PRF?
Microneedling with PRF is a microneedling treatment with the added benefits of PRF. Microneedling allows for a controlled process of the skin’s self-repair mechanism to take action; it creates micro “injuries” in the skin and triggers new collagen production. Microneedling is utilized to treat the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, minor trauma scars, hypo/hyperpigmentation, and improves the skin’s overall appearance. Adding your body’s own Platelet Rich Fibrin pushes the treatment to the next level.
Why should I get microneedling with PRF?
After the age of 20, a person produces about 1% less collagen and elastin each year. This procedure uses your body’s own stem cells and growth factors which are microneedled into the skin causing tiny wounds. The body’s natural ability to heal combined with the stem cells and growth factors will further stimulate collagen and elastin beyond microneedling alone. Collagen plays a role in strengthening skin, as well as in elasticity and hydration, and is vital in maintaining a youthful appearance.
What is PRF?
Platelet-Rich Fibrin is obtained through a blood draw. The sample is spun in a centrifuge to separate the components of blood so that the fibrin can be used in this treatment. Fibrin acts as the binding scaffold for platelets and red blood cells which is the essential first step in wound healing and tissue regeneration. This PRF framework serves a critical role as a support template for tissue regeneration and sustains growth factors and stem cells that rejuvenate the skin.
In contrast to PRP, PRF is obtained by centrifuging whole blood without any additives at a slower speed than PRP. The microneedling process creates micro-injuries and recruits stem cells to the compromised site. Applying PRF in this treatment localizes and enhances the regenerative processes spurred by the body’s natural response to injury. PRF also sustains other vital cells, including white blood cells. These white blood cells secrete signaling factors that further stimulate tissue repair and stem cell recruitment.
How long do results from microneedling with PRF last?
It is important to realize that we cannot stop the aging process, we can only slow it down. With this in mind, results are not considered permanent, as natural aging will occur over time. Improvements from microneedling can be seen for several years after a treatment series if continued recommended maintenance treatments are followed; results can also be prolonged with the correct at-home skin care maintenance.
It is recommended to get 2-3 microneedling treatments, as maintenance, per year after your initial series of treatments to combat loss of collagen and elastin..
Numerous studies prove the efficacy of microneedling alone, and for certain conditions, such as acne scars, the addition of PRF to the treatment amplifies the results and speeds recovery. This is because PRF uses stem cell science to enhance healing through its high concentration of growth factors. Research is showing from orthopedics to aesthetics, PRF is transforming wound healing.
When used in conjunction with microneedling, the tiny perforations created during the treatment deliver the platelet-rich fibrin to the deepest layers of the skin. This stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin cells which helps smooth skin and scar tissue over time.
How long does an appointment for microneedling with PRF take?
A microneedling treatment takes 1.5 hours to complete. This time frame includes the blood draw and 30 minutes for topical numbing to be applied prior to treatment.
When will I begin to see results from my microneedling with PRF treatment?
Some patients notice tightening, and a more even tone to their skin a week or two after their first treatment. For areas with deeper imperfections, results can be more subtle, and additional treatments may be required. Since Microneedling stimulates new collagen and elastin production these results will continue to build for up to 6 months.
What areas can I treat with microneedling with PRF?
Microneedling can essentially be used on any part of the body. The most popular areas to treat are the face, neck, and chest. Microneedling can also be effective on most types of scarring and stretch marks.
Is there any downtime after a microneedling treatment?
After your treatment, your skin will likely be red, this is normal and to be expected. Redness usually lasts from 24 -48 hours. You may also have a little swelling in some areas. We prefer you stay inside and out of any sunlight for 24-48 hours. After 48 hours you will be able to apply sunscreen and resume normal activities. A few days after your treatment your skin may become dry, we will provide a moisturizer to help with the dryness.
Are there any side effects or possible risks to microneedling?
Microneedling is considered a safe treatment for all skin types. The side effects associated with microneedling are temporary swelling and redness.
VI Chemical Peel
How is the VI Peel different from other peels?
Peels of the past epitomize the “no pain, no gain” approach to skincare. Before VI Peel, the deeper the peel, the more painful, the more downtime, the better the results. VI is painless, yet produces dramatic visible results in just days with little downtime.
How many treatments are required to show an improved look?
A single VI Peel will achieve significant repair and add a healthy glow to the skin. A chemical peel can restore damage caused by the sun’s UV rays, environmental irritants, and acne scarring, this is achieved quickly and painlessly. Also, it is a great preventative measure for younger skin with no visible damage. For best results, we recommend a series of 3 or alternating with microneedling.
How long will the results last?
Damage to the skin from environmental factors and even minimal sun exposure warrants VI Peels to be done quarterly once your skin is to your desired appearance. VI Peel results can sustain longer if post-treatment skincare is maintained per provider recommendations. It is highly advised sun exposure be limited and sunscreen always applied.
What types of skin responds well to the VI Peel?
VI Peels are great for any skin type, thus anyone can enjoy the benefits of the peel. Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI (Asian, Latino, and African American) can experience anti-aging and restorative skin care previously unavailable.
Is the VI chemical peel painful?
Patients may feel a slight stinging sensation for a few seconds, which subsides fairly quickly. The peel is applied topically and the skin takes on a slight numbing after the first pass. We will provide a fan to help should you feel any stinging.
What can I expect after my treatment?
Every person peels differently. Peeling can be light and flaky or you may find your skin peeling in sheets, however, this is less common but perfectly acceptable. Peeling will begin on day 3 and you can expect to peel until days 6-7. We will provide moisturizer to help with the peeling and make it less noticeable.
What will I look like right after the VI Peel and during the next few days?
The skin will look slightly tan to red immediately after the peel. On days 1 and 2 the skin will feel slightly tighter with no visible signs of having a peel. Any pigmented areas might appear slightly darker, which is a good sign. On about day 3 the patient begins to peel. The first signs of peeling usually begin around the mouth area, continuing for a few more days. Patients can safely go about their usual daily routine and by days 6-7, the patient should be done peeling.
Are there any activities I should avoid after this treatment?
We recommend avoiding excessive heat for the first 24-48 hours, this includes; hot tub, strenuous exercise, steam room/sauna, and really hot showers.
How many peels are needed?
We recommend a series of 3 peels with a separation time period of 4 weeks, Maintenance should be done quarterly to repair damage and defend against the normal aging process.
Can I treat my neck, décolleté, and hands?
The VI Peel is safe and effective on all parts of the body, removing sunspots from the hands and chest and eliminating the wrinkles associated with sun damage on the décolleté. VI also has peels specifically designed to treat the body and is very effective in correcting sun damage to arms, legs, back, or anywhere damage has occurred.
Who is not a candidate for a chemical peel?
We do not recommend women who are pregnant or breastfeeding receive a peel.
Are there any side effects or possible risks to VI Peel?
Chemical peels are considered a safe treatment for all skin types. The side effects associated with peels are temporary flaking, peeling and itching.
PLATELET RICH FIBRIN (PRF) HAIR RESTORATION
WITH ADDED GROWTH FACTORS
What is PRF?
Platelet-Rich Fibrin is obtained through a blood draw. The sample is spun in a centrifuge to separate the components of blood so that the fibrin can be used in this treatment. Fibrin acts as the binding scaffold for platelets and red blood cells which is the essential first step in wound healing and tissue regeneration. This PRF framework serves a critical role as a support template for tissue regeneration and sustains growth factors and stem cells that rejuvenate the skin or stimulate hair follicles on the scalp.
In contrast to PRP, PRF is obtained by centrifuging whole blood without any additives at a slower speed than PRP. The microneedling process creates micro-injuries and recruits stem cells to the compromised site. Applying PRF in treatments localizes and enhances the regenerative processes spurred by the body’s natural response to injury. PRF also sustains other vital cells, including white blood cells. These white blood cells secrete signaling factors that further stimulate tissue repair and stem cell recruitment.
How does PRF for hair restoration work?
PRF is injected into the scalp where hair loss has been experienced. This treatment uses the body’s own stem cells and added growth factors to generate new hair growth and thicken hair.
BOTOX/DYSPORT (NEUROMODULATOR)
What is a neuromodulator (Botox/Dysport)?
A neuromodulator is an injectable drug that relaxes and softens the lines in the skin and restricts facial muscles from contracting.
What is the difference between Botox/ and Dysport?
There are some differences between the two, however, Envy reconstitutes both neuromodulators the same so the differences are eliminated. Allergan produces Botox and Galderma produces Dysport, both contain the same relaxing components causing the exact same effect.
How long will the results last?
The effects of Botox/Dysport generally last 3 to 4 months. As the product is absorbed/metabolized muscle action generally returns and with it the lines and wrinkles caused by those muscles. Another Botox/Dysport treatment will then be needed to maintain your results. Over time lines and wrinkles will appear less severe because the muscles are being trained to relax. It is important to understand the product is metabolized by your body, which is to say your body will determine how quickly you will need another treatment and this varies from person to person.
When will I see my results?
Results can be seen as early as 3 days, the average is 5 – 10 days with the full effect of treatment at two weeks.
What do I need to know post-procedure?
You may experience small bumps immediately following the procedure; these will generally resolve within 20 to 30 minutes. In some cases, some patients may bruise, however, this is unlikely but possible in certain areas. If bruising does occur it is likely near the crow’s feet, but bruising can occur anywhere there was an injection. After treatment, it is important to not lie down for 4 hours and not exercise for the rest of the day.
Does the injection hurt? What does the sensation feel like?
Generally speaking, Botox/Dysport injections do not hurt, you may feel a slight pinch when the very tiny needle enters the skin.
Who is not a candidate for neuromodulator treatments?
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not receive neuromodulars. If you have any neurological diseases, please consult your primary care physician before receiving treatment.
Is there any preparation needed for the treatment?
There is no preparation required for receiving Botox/Dysport. It is advised that you not have a COVID vaccine one-week prior to or one-week following your Botox injections.
How long does the actual treatment take?
Your appointment will be scheduled for 30 minutes to allow time for a consultation with your provider. However, the treatment itself takes anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes.
How often are treatments recommended?
It is suggested you come back for treatment every 3 to 4 months. Some patients may need to come sooner, some may find they can wait a little longer.
DERMAL FILLER
What are dermal fillers and how do they work?
Dermal fillers work by boosting the skin’s supply of hyaluronic acid. Dermal fillers revitalize and add volume to the skin, instantly diminishing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and giving a natural softer look. Dermal fillers are a soft injectable gel-like product consisting of stabilized, non-animal hyaluronic acid.
How long will the results last?
The results obtained with filler vary from product to product; it can range anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Your provider will discuss with you how long you can expect to have your results based on the product you have chosen together.
When will I see my results?
Filler instantly plumps, smooths and/or adds volume to the treated area. It can fill depleted temples, soften nasolabial folds, and volumize and define lips. Filler can also be used to provide lift in the cheek area by supporting the underlying skin structure, restoring fullness, and giving the face a younger-looking appearance. Results are instant but will continue to improve over the coming weeks.
What do I need to know post-procedure?
The most common side effects of dermal filler include tenderness, redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection sites. These are expected to improve within 1-2 weeks. We do our best to minimize bruising during the treatment and will apply arnica throughout the treatment. Patients that are experiencing sudden pain, white/graying color to the skin, or persistent issues at the site of injection are advised to contact our office immediately. We do not advise getting filler within two weeks of a big event.
Does it hurt? What does the sensation feel like?
It depends on the area being treated. But for most injection areas it is minimally uncomfortable. In some cases, a topical numbing cream may be applied prior to the procedure to help minimize any discomfort. In most cases, the filler contains the anesthetic agent lidocaine, so as the product is being administered the lidocaine begins to take effect making the injection of the filler more comfortable.
Who is not a candidate for filler?
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not get dermal filler. Patients with significant allergies may also be contraindicated.
Is there any preparation for filler injections?
We advise our patients not to take ibuprofen, aspirin, drink caffeine, and alcohol, or take fish oil 1-2 days prior to their treatment.
How long does the actual treatment take?
The length of your appointment time depends on the area being injected and how many syringes of filler you have decided to get. An appointment can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
What should I avoid after the treatment?
Depending on the area being treated each area has slightly different post-care instructions, which your provider will go over with you. Generally speaking, you want to avoid touching the treated area, keep the area clean and free of any product, and do not manipulate the area. If you are concerned about bruising we advise you not to take ibuprofen, aspirin, drink caffeine, or alcohol, or take fish oil. We also advised you not workout 24 to 48 hours post-procedure.
PLATELET RICH FIBRIN (PRF) INJECTIONS
How do PRF injections work?
Our blood contains red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, platelets, and many other components. Fibrinogen is a clotting protein found in plasma. When there is tissue damage, thrombin converts fibrinogen to insoluble fibrin. Fibrin then acts as the binding scaffold for platelets and red blood cells in clot formation, which is the essential first step in wound healing and tissue regeneration. PRF offers all the clinical benefits of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) plus the slower release of growth factors and increasing results. The procedure allows professionals to separate the components using a centrifuge that spins the tubes of blood. Thus, PRF can be easily separated from the rest of the blood cells and components and then injected into the face for facial rejuvenation or used to accelerate healing, tissue regeneration, and stimulate the production of collagen. Unlike fillers and neuromodulator injections, the PRF procedure is one hundred percent autologous. Meaning you are the donor and the recipient of your platelet-rich fibrin treatment for facial or hair rejuvenation.
What areas can be treated with PRF?
PRF can be injected in any area of the face. However, the skin under the eyes is one of the thinnest skin on our body and can be one of the first areas that show signs of aging. PRF is an ideal treatment for this area and can be a better option than other treatments such as heat-based radio frequency. PRF is also a great alternative to dermal filler as too much filler under the eyes can cause the eyes to look puffy and if the dermal filler is injected too superficially a bluish hue can be seen under the eyes. Injecting PRF can significantly improve this area by tightening the loose skin under the eyes and improving the dark circles.
Why PRF instead of PRP?
PRF has various advantages over PRP. With PRP and other past-generation platelet concentrates, growth factor release is initially rapid, yielding short-lived, early healing benefits without long-term improvement. Simply put, PRF releases growth factors for much longer, up to one week, versus PRP, which releases growth factors for a few hours. This means that PRF has better long-term benefits. The growth factors are what stimulate the stem cells to increase the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. The platelets in PRF are thought to be more robust than those in PRP, and therefore promote faster healing. Preparing PRP requires an external additive, thus, PRP is not truly autologous; in contrast, PRF requires no additives. The slow remodeling of the fibrin matrix within PRF effectively sustains growth factors and other critical cells. Studies concluded comparative analysis shows that growth factor concentrations are generally higher in PRF than in PRP, a finding that supports PRF’s superiority in stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. It is reasonably assumed that PRF’s sustained growth factor secretion, in comparison with PRP, more strongly induces stem cell migration to the site of its application.
Beyond their re-modeling and compositional differences, PRF and PRP undergo different protocols when centrifuged (see Fig. below). The low speed required to obtain PRF better preserves the beneficial cellular content within the resulting PRF layer. In contrast, the high-speed centrifuge required for PRP preparation tends to push most cells to the bottom of the tube.
