It is our staff's experience that patients with acne scars have suffered greatly in terms of emotional distress, and that these patients are sometimes the most grateful when a good outcome is achieved. Punch grafts usually deliver excellent results. Discrete, small ice pick-type deep acne scars can usually be corrected 100% by this technique. In fact, our staff often reaches for this treatment before any others to clear away scar tissue. Following punch grafts, patient may choose to undergo laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels or microdermabrasion for even smoother results.
- Usually 100% correction of deep ice pick-type scars
- Reduced ice pick-type acne scars
- Reduced chicken pox scars
- Reduced traumatic scars
- Easy, painless recovery
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, and Subcisions.
Photos are taken and scars are marked with a surgical marking pen. A local anesthetic is injected behind one ear and into the scar tissue being treated. Skin is prepped with a cleansing agent. A punch device is used to excise the scars, followed by a .5 mm larger punch device used to harvest punch grafts from behind one ear. The grafts are set into place under microscopic guidance. Steristrips and a clear plastic-type dressing are applied over the grafts. Patients are able to drive to the office and back home in most cases.
All skin types are candidates for punch grafts. Patients with clotting disorders should consider other procedures.
Even, smoother skin tones with reduction of acne scars without the down time of other procedures.
The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual
Patients need to take it easy to allow the grafts to take. Most patients will have their bandages removed from their face in eight days.
Lidocaine is used to numb the scarred area to alleviate any sensation of pain. Rarely, patients choose the option of intravenouse (i.v.) sedation by one of our board-certified anesthetists to avoid even the pain from needle sticks.
Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin, Motrin, Advil, naprosyn and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for two weeks before the procedure. Avoid vitamin E, ginkgo and garlic for three to five days before the procedure.
Avoid blood thinners for a few days after the procedure. Keep bandages on for seven to eight days. Return for staff to remove bandages. Avoid getting bandages wet. Consider sponge baths for seven to eight days. Minimize activity. No strenuous exercise.
Our physicians.
It is our staff's experience that patients with acne scars have suffered greatly in terms of emotional distress, and that these patients are sometimes the most grateful when a good outcome has been achieved. Acne scars are more difficult to treat than wrinkles, often requiring a combination of approaches for maximum benefit. Our staff often combines laser skin resurfacing with punch grafts, subcisions, fat transfer and other treatments to optimize outcomes. Individuals with acne scars should understand that final clinical outcomes may not be derived overnight, but that a combination of different approaches yields the best results.
- No down time
- Minimal risk
- Reduces broad-based acne scars
- Reduces saucer-shaped acne scars
- Reduces linear acne scars
- Good compliment to other treatment modalities
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane.
A small Nokor needle is passed through the skin under local anesthetic. Our staff pans back and forth under the acne scars to break up fibrous bands holding down the skin causing acne scars.
All skin types can undergo this procedure.
Smoother, even skin tones with reduction of acne scars without the down time of other procedures.
The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
Most patients are back to their normal activity in one day. Bruising is possible, especially if the patient has taken an aspirin or other blood thinner within two weeks prior to the procedure.
Lidocaine is used to numb the scarred areas to alleviate any sensation of pain.
Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin, Motrin, Advil, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for two weeks before the procedure. Avoid vitamin E, ginkgo and garlic for three to five days before the procedure.
Avoid blood thinners for a few days after the procedure.
Our physicians.
Dermal grafts have become very popular in the past 10 years. Patients see outstanding long-term results with minimal risk.
- Long-term results
- Reduced acne scars
- Reduced traumatic scars
- Fast and easy recovery
- Minimal risk procedure
- Grafts are from one's own skin, not a foreign substance
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, Subcisions.
While dermal grafting has been around for many years, recently the field of dermatologic surgery has offered new advances for this procedure.
An area behind the ear is numbed with lidocaine and a laser is then used to remove the surface epidermis from the underlying dermis. Small pieces of dermis which contain collagen are excised from this area and the incision is stitched up. A small stab incision is made in the area of the acne scar and the newly harvested dermal grafts are placed into the stab incision, and beneath the depressed scar, resulting in an elevation of the depressed scar.
Because the graft is from one's own skin rather than from another animal, little absorption occurs and the results appear to be long term. It is truly a skin transplant of both cellular fibroblasts and collagen that maintains long-term correction. Dermal grafting is a more complex and technique-dependent procedure when compared to the injection of filler agents, such as collagen.
All skin types are candidates for dermal grafts.
Smoother skin with reduction or elimination of acne scars.
The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Occasionally minor complications occur that do not affect the outcome. Major complications are unusual.
Patients may go back to work in one to two days, while avoiding strenuous exercise for one week.
Lidocaine is used to numb the scarred area to alleviate any sensation of pain.
Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin, Motrin, Advil, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for two weeks before the procedure. Avoid vitamin E, ginkgo and garlic for three to five days before the procedure.
Avoid blood thinners for a few days after the procedure and avoid strenuous exercise for one week. Apply an antibiotic ointment to the donor areas behind the ears.
Our physicians.
In the mid 1990's, a Palo Alto, California company pioneered the process of laser skin resurfacing by developing the first laser used for this purpose, the Ultrapulse CO2 laser. Although this laser was initially intended to remove sun damage and pre-cancerous growths of the skin, the inventors were happily surprised that it also reduced or eliminated wrinkles and scars.
The CO2 laser treatments were often associated with longer than desired healing times, and some patients noted a skin lightening effect from the laser. To overcome these disadvantages, a cooler Erbium laser was developed. Most Erbium lasers were limited by their depth of penetration into the skin and by their insufficient skin-tightening effect. Another Palo Alto, California-based company responded to this issue by developing a more advanced Erbium laser, the "Sciton Contour" laser, with its proprietary "Optical DiaThermy Technology." With this laser, the surgeon could precisely "dial-in" the desired depth of penetration of laser light in microns (millionths of a meter), while at the same time dialing in the amount of heat necessary to tighten skin. With this technology, healing time is reduced and side effects are rare.
In order to satisfy patients' various requirements, our staff will often combine the Ultrapulse laser and the Sciton Contour laser on the same patient during one treatment, delivering the most state-of-the-art, individualized laser procedure possible.
- Reduce or eliminate acne scars
- Reduce or eliminate wrinkles
- Reduce or eliminate aged and sun damaged skin
- Reduce or eliminate brown spots and discoloration
- Reduce the risk of skin cancer
- Usually a one-time procedure
- Improve skin tone
- Tighten skin
- Regenerate new collagen
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, Subcisions.
In order to remove scarred skin, a laser beam is passed over the surface of the skin, gently and precisely painting away unwanted cells, one layer at a time. Clinical investigations have consistently proven that laser skin resurfacing induces new collagen formation in the skin, resulting in the reduction or complete elimination of scars and wrinkles.
Importantly, the process of eliminating sun-damaged cells greatly reduces the chance of developing pre-cancers and skin cancers in later years. The length of the procedure depends on the amount of the surface area treated. Small areas may take 15 minutes, while the entire face is completed in approximately 40 minutes. After a short recovery period, patients return home.
Most individuals except those with the darkest skin tones can undergo this treatment.
Patients note a refreshed, tighter skin tone with reduced scars and a more youthful glow
Risks include scarring, infection, increase or decrease of the color of the skin. In experienced hands, these risks are minimal. The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
Approximately one week
All procedures are performed within our state-accredited outpatient surgery center. A topical anesthetic cream may be applied to the treatment areas prior to the procedure. Small regional areas are easily numbed up, while a full face procedure would require twilight local sedation, administered by our board-certified anesthetists.
Avoidance of excessive sunlight for 2 weeks before treatment.
For full face resurfacing, a facial dressing remains on the skin for an average of five days. Moisturizers are also recommended. After seven days, most patients can cover any pink areas with a cover-up powder. Patients should use a sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure for at least eight weeks after the procedure.
Our physicians.
Microdermabrasion is a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment invented in Italy for skin rejuvenation. Multiple articles in dermatologic medical journals have proven that microdermabrasion improves acne scars, wrinkles and acne by exfoliating the outer dead layers of the skin and stimulating new collagen formation in the deeper dermal layers, revealing younger, fresher skin. This procedure utilizes crystals to finely resurface superficial layers of the skin. Microdermabrasion can even treat stubborn acne scars of the back. During your consultation, you may request a sample of the treatment on the back or your hand to sample its benefits and painlessness.
- Reduces acne scars on the face and back
- Reduces acne
- Reduces white heads and black heads
- No down time
- Minimal risk
- Other benefits include reduction in sun damage, wrinkles and fine lines, brown spots, melasma, freckles, hyperpigmentation, traumatic scars, enlarged pores and collagen stimulation resulting in improvement of general skin tone
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, Subcisions.
Patients relax lying down. A fine mist of crystals are sprayed onto the skin's surface and gently suctioned away. The dual action of mechanical exfoliation combined with dynamic stimulatory effects of the vacuum-suction result in new collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
Most skin types can benefit from microdermabrasion.
More even, glowing and smoother skin tones with less acne.
This treatment has a very strong track record for safety and precision. Side effects are rare and generally temporary. The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally.
There is no down time and individuals return to regular activities the same day.
Usually a painless procedure.
Avoid excessive sun exposure and retinoic acid creams (Retin-A, Differin, Avita) for two to three days before your treatment.
Avoid excessive sun exposure and retinoic acid creams (Retin-A, Differin, Avita) for two to three days after your treatment.
Licensed Aestheticians, Registered Nurses.
Fat transfer or micro-lipo-injection is a century-old technique of transferring fat from one body area to another. Fat transfer is helpful for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes. Often referred to as surgical "sculpting," the process is used to replace the loss of fat which occurs underneath the skin in association with the scarring or aging process.
The duration of the contour correction varies from patient to patient. While improvement is most often long lasting, follow-up injections may be necessary. Our staff is able to freeze the harvested fat for up to one year so that patients may return on their lunch hour for a quick touch-up, if required.
- Long term and even permanent results
- Reduction of acne scars
- Reduction of traumatic scars and depression deformities in the skin
- Reduction of marionette lines (nasolabial folds between the corners of the mouth and nose)
- Natural
- Process uses one's own fat, not from a cadaver or other animal
- Ability to correct large defects
- No allergic reactions
- Filling in hollow cheeks, temples and eye area to give a more youthful fullness to the face
- More youthful face and hands
- Enhancement of lip size
| Filler Agent |
Durability |
FDA Approved |
| Collagen |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Cosmoplast,Cosmoderm |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Fat Transfer |
1-2 years or more |
Not applicable to procedure |
| JUVEDERM™ |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Perlane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Restylane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Radiesse |
up to 18 months |
Yes |
| UltraSoftForm Implants |
Permanent |
Yes |
Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO
2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, and Subcisions.
The areas from which fat is to be removed and injected are cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic. Using a tiny needle and syringe, the fat is extracted through a small 2 mm incision from the abdomen or outer thigh. After centrifugation and separation, the purified fat is injected into the desired areas.
Almost anyone can undergo these procedures.
Immediate results which last one to five years, or more.
Fat transfer is considered a safe and effective procedure because one's own fat is used, eliminating the risk of allergic reactions. The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Occasionally minor complications occur that do not affect the outcome. Major complications are unusual.
Patients usually resume normal activity the day of surgery.
Swelling, soreness and bruising is possible, but unusual.
Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, naprosyn for two weeks before the procedure.
Avoid blood thinners for a few days after the procedure.
Our physicians.
RN/PA Charge Only $395.00 Per Syringe
Restylane and Perlane are filler agents which can give a lift to the aging and scarred face. These crystal-clear, non-animal, biodegradable gels are natural hyaluronic acid substances, normally found in the skin, which are injected through a tiny needle into the skin of the face as well as lips to produce a long-lasting, safe and natural enhancement. Perlane is thicker than Restylane and can give an even longer-lasting effect than Restylane.
Long lasting, up to 15 months
Reduces acne scars and traumatic scars
Reduces depressions in the skin
Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
Reduces marionette lines (nasolabial folds between the corners of the mouth and nose)
No allergy testing needed
Not derived from animal sources
Enhances lip size
Reverses the loss of fullness in the face that one suffers with age
| Filler Agent |
Durability |
FDA Approved |
| Collagen |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Cosmoplast,Cosmoderm |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Fat Transfer |
1-2 years or more |
Not applicable to procedure |
| JUVEDERM™ |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Perlane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Restylane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Radiesse |
up to 18 months |
Yes |
| UltraSoftForm Implants |
Permanent |
Yes |
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO
2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, and Subcisions.
Restylane and Perlane have effects similar to collagen implants. They are injected into the skin to replace hyaluronic acid and collagen which have diminished from both aging and scar formation secondary to acne. The skin is composed of the dermis, the epidermis and natural substances such as collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, the binding materials which give volume and youthfulness to the skin and lips. Acne scars and age can cause these compounds to dissolve away, leaving depressions, wrinkles and less youthfulness to the skin and lips. Collagen implants have been used for a couple of decades in the U.S., however, collagen is most often harvested from cows, requiring patients to undergo allergy testing four weeks prior to the initial treatment. Some find that the results from collagen implants are too short-lived.
No allergy testing needed. Almost anyone can undergo these procedures.
Immediate results, lasting up to 15 months.
Restylane and Perlane require no allergy testing and results last longer than collagen. Side effects consist of localized swelling at the site of injection, redness, tenderness, and even rarer is an acne-like formation at the injection site, lasting for a few days to weeks.
The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally.
Usually none. A few patients may be overcorrected for the first few days, with mild swelling noticed occasionally. Patients usually return to normal activity the same day as the treatment.
Some individuals will require an anesthetic injection to prevent pain.
None.You should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, even over the counter medicines or treatments. If you are taking blood thinners or medications that may interfere with clotting of the blood, such as aspirin, motrin, advil, naprosyn, please stop if possible for 10-14 days prior to your treatment to reduce the chance of getting a bruise. Vitamin E also thins the blood, so we advise that you stop taking vitamin supplements containing vitamin E three days before your treatment.
None.
Our physicians, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses.
Cosmoplast and Cosmoderm are human-based collagen substances which improve acne scars by acting as filler agents to plump up tissue beneath a scar. Patients see dramatic and immediate results without any downtime.
- The only FDA-approved, commercially available dermal fillers made from human collagen
- No pre-treatment, allergy skin testing is required
- Formulated with an anesthetic for comfort
- Treatment takes 20 to 30 minutes
- Treatment results last up to six months
- Also treats wrinkles
| Filler Agent |
Durability |
FDA Approved |
| Collagen |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Cosmoplast,Cosmoderm |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Fat Transfer |
1-2 years or more |
Not applicable to procedure |
| JUVEDERM™ |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Perlane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Restylane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Radiesse |
up to 18 months |
Yes |
| UltraSoftForm Implants |
Permanent |
Yes |
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO
2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, and Subcisions.
These medicines are injected through tiny needles into the dermal layer of the skin. As a filler agent, the scars, lines, wrinkles and furrows are lifted up for a smoother effect.
Anyone not allergic to these agents can undergo this therapy.
Immediate results, lasting up to six months.
Swelling, redness, allergic reactions, inflammation and scarring are extremely rare. The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
Patients usually return to normal activity the same day as the treatment.
The anesthetic in these agents help alleviate pain on injection. Most patients have no discomfort after the procedure.
You should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, even over the counter medicines or treatments. If you are taking blood thinners or medications that may interfere with clotting of the blood, such as aspirin, motrin, advil, naprosyn, please stop if possible for 10-14 days prior to your treatment to reduce the chance of getting a bruise. Vitamin E also thins the blood, so we advise that you stop taking vitamin supplements containing vitamin E three days before your treatment.
None.
Our physicians, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses.
Lunchtime Laser Toning turns back the clock and reverses scarring and aged skin in a soft, gentle way. This revolutionary process delivers the laser energy through your skin's surface, to gently stimulate the production of new collagen, while protecting the outer layer of your skin. The new collagen that is formed improves the appearance of the skin. This procedure also tightens your skin to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and enlarged pores, compared to more aggressive lasers and chemical peels that resurface both the outer and deeper layers of the skin. Lunchtime laser toning is an ideal option for patients who desire improved skin without downtime.
- No down time
- Minimal risk
- Reduces acne
- Reduces acne scars
- Reduces finer lines and wrinkles
- Reduces aged and sun damaged skin
- Reduces enlarged pores
- Stimulates new collagen growth within the dermis
- Improves skin tone
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoderm & Cosmoplast, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, and Subcisions
A cooling spray is immediately followed in milliseconds by a laser beam which passes over the chilled and protected skin. The light is absorbed into the underlying layers of the skin where new collagen is stimulated to grow. As new collagen fibers form, scars diminish, pores shrink and wrinkles improve. No tissue is removed and no bandages are required. All patients should undergo a series of such treatments. Treatments are normally spaced two to three weeks apart in the beginning, then 8 to 12 weeks in a maintenance program.
Most skin types can undergo this procedure.
Patients note a refreshed, tighter skin tone with reduced scars and a more youthful glow.
This treatment has a very strong track record for safety and precision. Side effects are rare and generally temporary. The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally.
None, though some patients may be pink for a day or so after the procedure.
No. The cooling device and low energy output result in a virtually painless procedure.
Avoid excessive sun exposure for two to four weeks before the procedure.
Avoid excessive sun exposure for two to four weeks after the procedure.
Our physicians, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses.
The one-pass CO2 laser resurfacing approach is ideal for those patients with minimal to moderate acne scars, facial wrinkles, discoloration of the skin, and dark under eye circles. One pass laser resurfacing is an ideal option for patients who desire the benefits of laser resurfacing, yet cannot afford the recovery time from their busy schedules for standard laser resurfacing. Patients who have undergone other procedures such as standard laser resurfacing or deep chemical peels may still undergo this procedure as long as 12 to 18 months have passed since the prior treatment.
- Reduces acne scars
- Reduces wrinkles
- Reduces aged and sun damaged skin
- Reduces the risk of skin cancer
- Reduces or eliminate brown spots and discoloration
- Improves skin tone
- Regenerates new collagen
Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, Punch Grafts, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, and Subcisions
In order to remove scarred skin, a laser beam is passed over the surface of the skin, gently and precisely painting away unwanted cells. Unlike standard laser resurfacing where two or three passes may be performed, this procedure entails just one pass of the CO2 laser. Clinical investigations have consistently proven that laser skin resurfacing induces new collagen formation in the skin, resulting in the reduction of scars and wrinkles. Importantly, the process of eliminating sun-damaged cells greatly reduces the chance of developing pre-cancers and skin cancers in later years.
The length of the procedure depends on the amount of the surface area treated. Small areas may take 10 minutes, while the entire face is completed in approximately 25 minutes. After a short recovery period, patients return home.
Most individuals except those with the darkest skin tones can undergo this treatment.
Patients note a refreshed, tighter skin tone with reduced scars and a more youthful glow.
Risks include scarring, infection, increase or decrease of the color of the skin. In experienced hands, these risks are minimal. The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
After the first 24 hours, the recovery rapidly accelerates as the skin heals. Most patients can apply makeup by the fifth to seventh day after surgery and can easily return to normal activities. Although the recovery and post-op period is dramatically less than with standard laser resurfacing, "one-pass" laser resurfacing patients will still continue to see clinical improvement and collagen remodeling for several months after the procedure.
This procedure is usually done under intravenous (i.v.) twilight sedation, administered by one of our board-certified anesthetists. Many patients choose no i.v. sedation however, opting for topical anesthetic creams, local injections and possibly oral pain medication. This latter approach is preferred by some patients who do not want heavy sedation and eliminates yet another part of the recovery process. All procedures are performed within our state-accredited outpatient surgery center.
Avoidance of excessive sunlight for two weeks before treatment.
For the first couple of days after surgery, the patient applies topical ointments and ice packs, in addition to taking prescribed oral medication. Any pink areas may then be covered up with powder or makeup. We encourage all patients to use a sunscreen and avoid excessive, direct sun exposure for many weeks following this procedure.
Our Staff and Physician Assistants.
RN/PA Charge Only $580 Per 1.3cc Syringe
Radiesse is a long-term, non-surgical filler agent that lasts for approximately 18 months. Most patients use Radiesse to reduce the nasolabial folds and marionette lines.
- Reduces or eliminates acne scars
- Reduces depressions in the skin
- Reduces or eliminates wrinkles
- Reduces marionette lines (nasolabial folds between the corners of the mouth and nose)
- Reverses the loss of fullness in the face that one suffers with age
| Filler Agent |
Durability |
FDA Approved |
| Collagen |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Cosmoplast,Cosmoderm |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Fat Transfer |
1-2 years or more |
Not applicable to procedure |
| JUVEDERM™ |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Perlane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Restylane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Radiesse |
up to 18 months |
Yes |
| UltraSoftForm Implants |
Permanent |
Yes |
Botox, Chemical Peels, Collagen, Cosmoderm & Cosmoplast, Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, Microdermabrasion, One-Pass CO
2 Laser Resurfacing, PhotoDynamic Therapy, PhotoFacial Intense Pulsed Light, Restylane & Perlane, Retinoic Acid Creams, and UltraSoftForm Lip Implants
Radiesse FN™ consists of calcium hydroxylapatite suspended in gel (carboxymethylcellulose). Because calcium hydroxylapatite is a normal constituent of bone, it should not elicit a chronic inflammatory or immune response. Additionally, the gel carrier does not require allergy testing, as is required with collagen.
Anyone desiring an augmentation procedure.
Immediate, lasting up to 18 months.
In general, calcium hydroxylapatite has safely been used in the body for many applications including dental applications where bone build-up is needed for reconstruction and also in block form for cosmetic applications such as cheek, jaw, cranial and chin implants. Calcium hydroxylapatite creates a lattice where the surrounding cells can be incorporated from ossification in bony areas to a stable scaffold in which soft tissue can grow.
Usually none.
Some individuals will require an anesthetic injection to prevent pain.
You should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, even over the counter medicines or treatments. If you are taking blood thinners or medications that may interfere with clotting of the blood, such as aspirin, motrin, advil, naprosyn, please stop if possible for 10-14 days prior to your treatment to reduce the chance of getting a bruise. Vitamin E also thins the blood, so we advise that you stop taking vitamin supplements containing vitamin E three days before your treatment.
None.
Our physicians, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses.
The new Fraxel™ Laser Treatment offers a "fractional" approach to laser skin resurfacing. This treatment represents a novel way to improve sun-damaged, wrinkled, discolored and scarred skin by offering patients the positive results of CO2 and Erbium:YAG laser treatments with no to minimal downtime. Aggressive treatments may make patients somewhat pink and swollen for a day or more. This innovative approach is specially designed to alter only fractional volumes of the skin. Similar to digital alteration of photographs and paintings, the clinical effect of this treatment technique is to alter the appearance of aging, sun-damaged and scarred skin. The creation of tiny micro-wounds results in a microscopic wound healing process and the resultant formation of new collagen fibers.
- All areas of the face, neck, hands and body can be treated
- Fraxel™ laser treatments represents an innovative approach to repairing
aging and sun damaged skin
- Replaces and rebuilds damaged skin like digital modification –
pixel by pixel and spot by spot
- Little to no downtime, depending on depth of treatment.
- Minimal risk
- Reduces wrinkles, sun-damaged and scarred skin
- Reduces brown discoloration (freckles, melasma, brown age spots)
- Reduces precancerous lesions
- No painful or lengthy recover
- No general anesthesia
- Fraxel™ laser treatment is specially designed to affect “fractional”
volumes of skin tissue, providing the benefits of rapid healing without
negative side effects
- Creates new epidermis in treatment zones within 24 hours in significant
contrast to “non-ablative” techniques
Collagen, Cosmoderm and Cosmoplast,
Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, MicroLaserPeel™, Punch Grafts,
Radiesse, Restylane, Perlane, Sculptra, Retinoic Acid Creams, Subcisions, and
V Beam Laser Toning.
The skin is treated fractionally
with patterns of microscopic laser spots, each of which is 70-100 microns
in diameter, resulting in a unique wound healing process. Each laser spot
or “MicroThermal
Zone,” is surrounded by untreated tissue. Fractional wound healing
results in both rapid replacement of the sun-damaged, surface layer of the
skin, as well as collagen remodeling in the deeper dermis, to depths of 400-700
microns.
An analogy to Fraxel™ Laser Treatments is pixels in a newspaper photograph.
If one looks at a newsprint photo closely, one will see that the image is
actually comprised of thousands of tiny spots of ink. Similarly, this laser
treatment produces thousands of tiny MicroThermal Zones. These zones not only
penetrate deep into the dermis rejuvenating collagen and reducing wrinkles,
but also resurface the uppermost portion of the skin, resulting in the formation
of new epidermal cells with reduction or complete elimination of uneven pigment.
Further, the intervening areas of untouched skin between these MicroThermal
Zones allow the skin to heal much faster compared to conventional laser skin
resurfacing.
Most skin types can undergo this
treatment; however individuals with darker complexions may have an increased
risk of hyperpigmentation after the procedure.
Patients should expect to see
a steady improvement in the color and contour of the skin. The skin appears
healthier and younger with each treatment.
Infection, scarring, increase
or decrease coloration of the skin is possible with almost any laser treatment.
The Fraxel™ Laser Treatment however provides unprecedented control in
laser skin rejuvenation. Risks are minimal, though the specific risks and the
suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only
at the time of the consultation. All procedures have some degree of risk. Minor
complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally.
The Fraxel™ Laser Treatment
will leave pinkness on the skin for a few days. Most patients can go back to
their regular activity the next day, while some patients return the very same
day. To completely cover the entire skin’s surface, multiple sessions
will be required to achieve the best aesthetic result.
Fraxel™ treatments require
that the patient apply a topical anesthetic cream to the skin prior to the procedure
to make this a comfortable procedure.
Avoid tanning for one month before the procedure. Apply a topical anesthetic cream to the proposed treatment area for 60-90 minutes prior to the procedure.
Avoid tanning for one month after
the procedure.
Physicians, Physician Assistants
and Registered Nurses
FRAXEL LASER Q&A
- What is Fraxel? Fraxel treatments use safe, factional laser technology to treat minor to severe skin damage, such as age or sun spots, wrinkles and other signs of aging. Depending on your needs, Fraxel treatments can help prevent the signs of aging, resurface damaged skin or correct severe damage.
- Are all Fraxel lasers the same? The Berman Gladstone Skin Institute has been using Fraxel laser technology since 2005. However, we recently upgraded to the newer Fraxel restore laser which is much more powerful, goes deeper into the skin and delivers better results, without the messy blue dye required by the older Fraxel 750 laser.
- How long has Fraxel been available? The first non-ablative Fraxel device was first cleared by the FDA in 2003 and has been available in physician offices since then. Our office has been treating patients with the original Fraxel laser since 2005.
- How does it work? Fraxel treatment uses patented fractional technology to target damaged skin with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into the skin. The laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, leaving the surrounding tissue intact, which promotes rapid healing. This stimulates your body's own natural healing process, replacing the old and damaged cells with fresh, glowing, healthy skin.
- How long is the treatment? Depending on the size, location and condition of the area to be treated, Fraxel treatment can take as little as 20 minutes. However, since we apply an anesthetic cream on the area at least 45 minutes prior to your procedure, we ask that you reserve at least 1.5 hours for your appointment.
- How many treatments will I need? The number of treatments you need depends on your goals and desired outcomes as well as your lifestyle. We will work with you to weigh the aggressiveness of the treatment with the downtime associated. Typically, patients receive their desired outcomes in 4-6 treatments.
- Who can be treated with the Fraxel laser? The Fraxel laser treats women and men of all ages and skin color.
- Can you treat parts of the body? Fraxel treatment works all areas of the body especially on delicate skin areas like the neck, chest and back of the hands.
- What kind of results can I expect? Your skin will feel softer, look brighter and show more even skin tone. Other benefits of the treatment may include:
- Smoother, fresher, younger looking skin
- Improved tone and texture
- Erasing of unwanted brown spots
- Reduced fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes
- When do the results appear, and how long do they last? The results of treatment are both immediate and progressive. Soon after the treatment, the surface of your skin will feel softer, look brighter and show more even tone. The next 3 to 6 months will bring more improvement as the deeper layers of the skin continue to heal. Stimulation of new collagen growth is permanent; the new collagen is generated in the skin which remains for a lifetime. Certainly, brown spots can recur should you be getting excessive sun exposure.
- What will I look like immediately after the procedures? Can I go right back to work? Fraxel treatment can be tailored to your desired outcomes. Depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment, you may experience redness or swelling after the procedure which diminishes as quickly as the next day or over the next several days. We will work with you to determine the best option to fit your lifestyle.
- Does it hurt? Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment. We will apply a topical anesthetic ointment before the procedure which helps minimize any discomfort during treatment.
- Who performs the procedures? Our physicians, physician assistants and registered nurses have been extensively trained on the Fraxel treatment.
- Can I avoid other cosmetic procedures if I do this? Each procedure has its own benefits. Fraxel is a great choice for resurfacing your skin, helping to diminish age or sun spots, reducing wrinkles and fine lines and many other benefits.
- Can I get a Fraxel treatment if I've already had other procedures? Fraxel procedures may be compatible with most other cosmetic procedures, like soft-tissue fillers or Botox.
- Is it safe? Fraxel treatment is a safe option backed by extensive research. Of course, as with any laser procedure there's always some risk and/or downtime.
- How much does Fraxel cost? The cost depends on the area you're having treated and the number of treatments you need for your desired results. We encourage you to come in for a consultation at which point we can give you a more precise idea of cost.
Silk Peel Dermalinfusion is a uniquely advanced skin treatment. It is a non-invasive procedure that exfoliates and infuses skin-specific dermaceuticals, leaving you with fresher feeling and better looking skin.
- Patient-specific topicals to address your unique skin care needs
- Immediate skin improvement
- Simultaneous exfoliation, dermalinfusion, lymphatic, muscle and nerve point stimulation
- Soothing and massaging treatment
- Non-invasive and no down time
- Avoids the hazards associated with particulate abrasion
Microdermabrasion, Fat Transfer Micro-lipo-injection, Collagen, Cosmoplast & Cosmoderm, Dermal Grafts, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Lunchtime Laser Toning, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing, Punch Grafts, JUVEDERM™, Radiesse, Restylane & Perlane, Sculptra, Subcisions.
Lying back comfortably, patients experience Silk Peel's "wet abrasion." It exfoliates the skin and simultaneously infuses a topical dermaceutical, addressing your specific skin condition and stimulating new cell growth to give your skin the revitalization you want.
Most skin types can benefit from Silk Peel Dermalinfusion. Some conditions Silk Peel treats are dry skin, fine lines, eczema, tactile roughness, acne, oily skin, redness, hyperpigmentation (brown discoloration), and sun damage.
After your Silk Peel treatment, your skin will have an immediate, radiant glow that leaves you looking healthy and renewed.
Silk Peel is a safe, comfortable treatment. Silk Peel treats the skin with crystal-free technology, offering an elegant, no-downtime approach while still an effective, exfoliating treatment.
There is no down time associated with Silk Peel treatments. Patients return to regular activity promptly the same day after treatment.
This is usually a painless procedure. The exfoliation may cause you a mild tightening of the skin. Combined with the cool, moisturizing effect of the topicals, your skin will feel healthy and smooth.
Avoid excessive exposure to the sun and avoid retinoic creams (Retin-A, Differin, Avita) two or three days prior to treatment.
Your physician or aesthetician will customize a post-care regimen, which may include moisturizers, cleansers, serums and sunscreen to enhance and maintain results.
Licensed Aestheticians
Allergan Corp., the makers of both BOTOX® COSMETIC and the facial filler, JUVEDERM™ awarded The Berman Gladstone Skin Institute the coveted "Diamond" classification. Allergan can detail physician experience on the basis of amount of medication administered to all patients annually, and their Diamond classification for the Berman Gladstone Skin Institute thus recognizes this center as one of the most experienced in the world for administering the combination of BOTOX® COSMETIC and JUVEDERM™ facial filler.
RN/PA Charge Only $395.00 Per Syringe
JUVEDERM is a "next generation" smooth gel, non-animal dermal filler offering a natural look/feel and long-lasting results for up to six months or longer. JUVEDERM™ dermal filler lasts long because it's the only dermal filler currently available with the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid and a special formulation process. This process creates a smooth gel that flows easily into the skin, creating smooth, natural looks.
JUVEDERM™ diminishes the depth of facial folds and wrinkles. As a result of new technology, JUVEDERM™'s consistency offers a remarkably smooth effect and minimizes the discomfort that can sometimes occur during the injection process.
| Agent |
Durability |
FDA Approved |
| Collagen |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Cosmoplast,Cosmoderm |
2-4 months |
Yes |
| Fat Transfer |
1-2 years or more |
Not applicable to procedure |
| JUVEDERM™ |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Perlane
|
6-15 months
|
Yes |
| Restylane |
6-15 months |
Yes |
| Radiesse |
up to 18 months |
Yes |
| UltraSoftForm Implants |
Permanent |
Yes |
As the body ages, skin loses elasticity and volume. JUVEDERM™ is placed below the skin's surface to diminish the depth of facial folds and wrinkles.
No allergy testing is required and most individuals can undergo this procedure.
Results are seen immediately following the treatment, with long lasting results.
These types of fillers have a proven track record of safety. Patients may experience redness and tenderness, bruising, itching and/or discoloration at injection sites. This should resolve within seven days or less.
Most patients have no down time, returning to normal activity the same day of treatment.
Many patients require a local anesthetic prior to treatment.
You should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, even over the counter medicines or treatments. If you are taking blood thinners or medications that may interfere with clotting of the blood, such as aspirin, motrin, advil, naprosyn, please stop if possible for 10-14 days prior to your treatment to reduce the chance of getting a bruise. Vitamin E also thins the blood, so we advise that you stop taking vitamin supplements containing vitamin E three days before your treatment.
If swelling occurs, take an antihistamine pill such as Benadryl, or Motrin/Advil.
Our physicians, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses perform the procedure.
