Helping You to Look Your Best Extreme Measures Are Not Always The Best Answer
Q&A with Dr. Brazil
Q. I loved my Japanese calligraphy tattoo until I found out it said “Dog Taco Pants.” Then when my pregnancy changed a blue and red lotus flower into a science fiction creature, I decided it was time to remove or change it to something else. Any advice?
A. Don’t fret. As more people want their tattoos removed or updated, laser technology is meeting the need. We offer the most advanced laser tattoo removal system available. The MedLite C6 Q-Switched YAG laser creates four different wavelengths of laser light to effectively treat red, black, browns and now light blues and greens. It minimizes the risk of scarring and pigment changes and decreases patient discomfort and the time needed for tattoo removal. It’s comfortable, safe and very effective. We successfully treat all kinds of tattoos including permanent cosmetics. We can also modify tattoos so that a new, more desirable one can be created. A free consultation with our staff can help design a treatment plan specific to your lifestyle and needs.
Q. I’ve noticed changes in my face’s contours. My cheekbones now look flattened, and where once I had fullness there’s a depression below my eyes that makes me look tired. Do I need a facelift?
A. Probably not. The aging face loses volume and some of the fat pads in the cheeks are pulled down by gravity. A facelift only pulls skin tighter and can look unnatural, besides being a significant invasive procedure. We focus on recreating the natural curves of your face with facial fillers like Radiesse. It’s injected into your skin just below the fibrous layer, and will create a soft and natural volume replacement that will make you look younger. It’s quick, comfortable and safe, with results lasting up to several years. It’s also very affordable compared to a facelift. The other beauty about facial fillers is that there are several to choose from that will naturally reverse the signs of aging and rejuvenate the lips, cheek bones, parentheses wrinkles around the mouth and hallows around the eyes.
Q. My wrinkles are now always visible, even when I am not smiling or frowning. I’ve heard that laser resurfacing is the best treatment for this but I can’t afford to take weeks off to heal. Is there another option?
A. It’s a good time to ask because we offer the most current Fraxel™ laser technology available. It works to turn back the clock on aging, improve sun-damaged skin and erase wrinkles, fine lines and brown spots. In fact, the new Fraxel™ SR1500 laser has a 30% deeper treatment effect. This means that each treatment will trigger a greater amount of new collagen production to more effectively rejuvenate your skin. It’s performed in our office using primarily topical anesthesia. Each laser resurfacing treatment takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the area(s) being treated. Because the procedure does not “ablate” or remove the outer skin layer, patients can resume routine activities shortly after treatment. Swelling is minimal and generally resolves in about two days. Your skin will be dry and have a pinkish tone for five to seven days as old skin cells are being replaced by new collagen-enriched cells. Our cosmetic consultations are always complimentary, so find out how we can help you look your best.