Make a New Year’s Resolution for Your Skin!

December 24th, 2012

With January 1st soon upon us, it’s time to begin thinking about our New Year’s resolutions.  And, we all know the usual ones – save more money, hit the gym, spend more time with family, etc.  While these are all certainly great goals, this year, we’re challenging our patients to think about making a resolution for health and beauty in 2013.  Offering many of today’s top medical and cosmetic skin procedures, our practice wanted to share a few ways you can look and feel your very best this coming year.

Here is our list of this year’s Top 5 Cosmetic Procedures for the New Year:

1. BOTOX® & Fillers: Don’t let wrinkles hold you back this year – do something about it!  BOTOX and soft tissue fillers are an ideal way to reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles.  Essentially a muscle relaxer, BOTOX is particularly ideal for “dynamic lines” like crow’s feet and frown lines.  For deeper, more persistent wrinkles, our practice offers several fillers, including Restylane®, Juvéderm® and more.
2. Acne Treatment: Make 2013 the year of clearer skin!   If you’re one of the thousands of adult acne sufferers, it’s time to explore Adult Acne Treatment for the first time.  Working to reduce inflammation and prevent future breakouts, acne treatment often includes topical creams, antibiotics, isotretinoin and/or oral contraceptives.
3. SmartLipo™: While not a weight loss solution, SmartLipo can mean the difference between the body you have and the one you have always wanted.  Widely considered the “gold standard” in treating stubborn, exercise resistant fat, SmartLipo combines the benefits of liposuction and skin tightening.
4. Laser Hair Removal: Unwanted hair isn’t just unattractive; it can also take a huge toll on our self-esteem.  An effective alternative to waxing and depilatories, Laser Hair Removal uses special light energy to destroy hair follicles and significantly inhibit growth.
5. Chemical Peels: If your skin has seen better days, a chemical peel can often be the answer.  Varying in strengths, our practice offers several peels to remove the damaged outer layers of skin and promote a fresh, even complexion.

Schedule Your 2013 Consultation!

Want to look your very best this year?  Take the first step – contact us today and schedule your consultation.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592.  Happy New Year!

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Think You’re Too Old for Cosmetic Dermatology? Think Again!

December 16th, 2012

Countless older patients falsely assume that they’re past the point where a cosmetic procedure could be effective for them. In reality, modern dermatology offers a host of treatments suited to those in their 40s, 50s, 60s and even beyond. And, while a 60-year old patient isn’t going to walk out of our offices looking like they’re in their 30s, it’s important to understand that cosmetic dermatology offers solutions for patients of nearly any age. So, want to know which procedures other patients are choosing?

Here are three of today’s top cosmetic procedures among older patients:

1. Soft tissue fillers: Wrinkles affect nearly everyone to some extent. A telltale sign of aging, many older patients are taking the initiative and doing something about it! And, there are few treatments as popular as soft tissue fillers. Working to fill in the valleys of creases and add volume to the skin, fillers like Juvéderm® and Restylane® work to restore a fresh, rested appearance. An ideal solution for deep-set lines around the nose and mouth, fillers achieve natural-looking results that often last up to several months. Particularly popular among older patients, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that patients 55 and over account for a full 36% of all soft tissue fillers performed in the US.
2. Chemical peels: Another common complaint among older patients is skin discoloration – particularly brown spots on the face. Often a result of overexposure to the sun, brown spots can make a patient look older – and feel older – than they really are. Thankfully, cosmetic dermatology offers a quick, simple and minimally-invasive solution: chemical peels. Varying in strengths, peels remove the damaged outer layers of skin and promote a more even skin tone. Our practice offers a variety of peels and together, we can find the best treatment option for you.
3. Microdermabrasion: If your skin has seen better days, it may be time to explore microdermabrasion. Improving texture and tone, microderm uses a stream of fine particles to exfoliate the skin and promote a more youthful appearance. Common among patients old and young alike, the ASPS reports that patients 55 and older now account for 24% of all microderm procedures performed across the board.

Cosmetic Dermatologist in Lawrenceville

To learn more about these or any of the treatments we offer, contact us today and schedule your consultation. Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592. We look forward to meeting you soon.

Posted in BOTOX® and Fillers | No Comments »

Take Back Control Over Aging!

December 6th, 2012

Think you have no control over fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin? Think again! While many folks assume these skin changes are an inevitable part of growing older, when we take a closer look at the skin aging process, it becomes clear that our environment and our lifestyle choices could make all the difference. And, it has to do with the difference between intrinsic aging and extrinsic aging.

While the concept might seem a bit complicated, you can think of intrinsic and extrinsic aging in terms of internal and external changes. Intrinsic aging is often referred to as “chronological aging.” These are skin changes we have relatively little control over, including a natural reduction in collagen production as well as a gradual loss of skin elasticity. And, since these changes are primarily based on physiological factors and genetics, there isn’t much we can do in the way of prevention.

External aging is a different story. These are skin changes that are a direct result of our lifestyle choices as well as our environment. For example, overexposure to the sun – which is often referred to as photoaging – can promote wrinkle formation and lead to unattractive skin discoloration. Lifestyle choices like tobacco use can also play a role. Smoking, for example, damages the skin’s elastin and collagen. These are proteins that keep skin looking supple and youthful. So, while some aging is normal – and to a certain degree, inevitable – I hope you can begin to understand just how much control you may ultimately have over your appearance!

Correcting the Damage

Another part of taking back control over your appearance is understanding all your cosmetic dermatology options. Working to “turn back the clock” and improve the appearance of aged, damaged skin, cosmetic dermatology offers a solution for nearly any cosmetic issue you may be facing. Want to find out what’s out there?

Here are three of today’s top cosmetic skin procedures:

1. BOTOX®: Fine lines and wrinkles affect not only how we look, but how we look at ourselves, as well. And, when it comes to achieving a fresh, more youthful appearance, there are no treatments as popular as BOTOX. Working essentially as a muscle relaxer, BOTOX reduces the appearance of dynamic lines such as frown lines or crow’s feet. And, though not a permanent solution, the effects of BOTOX will often last up to several months.
2. Fillers: For deep-set wrinkles that would not respond well to BOTOX, we will often recommend a soft-tissue filler such as Juvéderm®. Working to fill in the valleys of creases, these minimally-invasive treatments add volume to the skin and restore a more youthful face shape.
3. Chemical Peels: While skin discoloration is often not a medical concern, the condition can take a toll on a patient’s sense of well-being. Thankfully, cosmetic dermatology offers several solutions, some of the most popular of which are chemical peels. Varying in strengths, peels remove the damaged outer layers of the skin and promote a smooth, even skin tone.

Cosmetic Dermatologist in Lawrenceville

Ready to find out what cosmetic dermatology can do for you? Contact us today and schedule your consultation. Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592. We look forward to meeting you.

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Are You at Risk For Skin Cancer? Find Out!

November 29th, 2012

With more than a million new cases in the US each year, skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in the country.  A serious and potentially life-threatening condition, our practice is committed to spreading awareness, emphasizing the importance of regular skin cancer screenings and, for the purposes of this article, helping patients understand their risk level. Do you know what to watch out for?

Here’s our list of who’s at risk:

1. Those with fair skin. Those with a light skin tone – as well as those with light eyes and blonde or red hair – tend to be at a higher risk for developing skin cancer.  This is because those with a fairer complexion tend to have less skin pigment, which can offer natural, ultraviolet protection.
2. Those with a history of sunburns. Those with a history of sunburns need to be extra careful when it comes to screening for skin cancer.  In fact, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation, “A person’s risk for melanoma … doubles if he or she has had five or more sunburns.
3. Those with a family history. Like many forms of cancer, skin cancer can have a genetic component.  Those with a family history tend to be at a greater risk for developing the condition.
4. Those who spend a lot of time in the sun. If your job requires you to be in the sun a lot – or if you frequently go tanning – your risk of developing skin cancer can be greater.  To reduce your risk, make sure you avoid UV exposure when possible and use a good, daily sunscreen.
5. Everyone! Simply put, everyone is ultimately at risk for developing skin cancer.  Even if you don’t fall into one of these “high risk” categories, make sure you’re utilizing proper sun protection, coming in for regular skin cancer screenings and checking for any suspicious growths or changes in your skin.  Also, find out what tanning can mean for your heath and appearance!

Skin Cancer Screenings in Lawrenceville

How long has it been since your last skin cancer screening?  Contact our offices today and schedule your appointment.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592.  We look forward to meeting you soon.

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Worried About Wrinkles? Here Are 5 Things to Avoid!

November 24th, 2012

When it comes to the battle against premature aging, we want our patients to be prepared!  Do you know what to watch out for?  If you’re concerned about wrinkles, here are 5 Things to Avoid:

1. The Sun. When it comes to premature aging, the biggest culprit is usually overexposure to the sun.  Contributing not only to fine lines and wrinkles, UV rays can also lead to skin discoloration and worst of all, an increased risk for developing skin cancer.  Make sure you’re using an adequate daily sunscreen, and think twice before you jump into a tanning bed this season!
2. Smoking. Smoking isn’t just bad for our health – it can also take a huge toll on our appearance.  This is because smoking damages collagen and elastin, proteins that keep skin looking springy and youthful.  That’s just one more reason to kick the habit today!
3. Sugar. Think too much sugar only affects your waistline?  Think again!  Researchers are now looking at the connection between too much sugar and premature aging – and, it all has to do with something called “glycation.”  Elle Magazine featured this topic in a recent article explaining that “When those [skin] proteins hook up with renegade sugars, they become discolored, weak, and less supple … This shows up on the skin’s surface as wrinkles, sagginess, and a loss of radiance.”
4. Alcohol. While a glass of wine with dinner probably won’t hurt you, it seems that too much alcohol could contribute to facial sagging.  This is based on the fact that too much alcohol creates sky-high levels of inflammatory agents in the skin.
5. Stress. Take a breath – your skin may thank you!  While we all know stress isn’t good for our overall health, researchers are now looking at how chronic stress and anxiety may be linked to accelerated aging!

Fighting the Signs of Aging

Already seeing the signs of aging?  Find out how cosmetic dermatology can help!  Here are three of today’s top treatments:

• BOTOX®: As the number-one cosmetic procedure in the US, you can think of BOTOX as essentially a muscle relaxer.  Easing away lines and restoring a more youthful appearance, BOTOX is best suited for dynamic lines like crow’s feet and lines across the forehead.
• Fillers: For deep, static lines, patients will often choose a soft-tissue filler like Juvéderm.  Working to “fill in” the valleys of creases, these injectable treatments add volume to the skin and restore a more youthful face shape.
• Microdermabrasion: As one of today’ top skin resurfacing procedures, microdermabrasion uses a gentle stream of fine particles to exfoliate the skin and promote a more even complexion.

Cosmetic Dermatologist in Lawrenceville

To learn more about these or any of the treatments we offer, contact us today and schedule your consultation.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592.  We look forward to meeting you soon.

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4 Reasons to Explore SmartLipo™ Today!

November 17th, 2012

Heard of SmartLipo™, but not sure what this cutting-edge procedure is really all about?  Ready to deal with stubborn, exercise-resistant fat once and for all?  Looking for the “gold standard” in permanent fat reduction?  If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then this post is for you!

One of the most central goals of Southern Dermatology is staying ahead of the curve in cosmetic science.  And, part of that means offering the latest and most effective liposuction technologies available.  This is why our practice chooses to offer SmartLipo.  Ready to find out what all the buzz is about?

Here are 4 Reasons to Explore SmartLipo™ Today:

1. Laser technology. SmartLipo’s cutting-edge laser technology is truly what sets it apart from the competition.  This laser energy works essentially to melt fat cells, which are suctioned away and/or flushed away by the body.
2. Minimally-invasive. SmartLipo is considered far less invasive than a traditional liposuction procedure.  As such, the procedure is performed completely under local anesthesia, and generally results in a quicker recovery time.
3. Versatile. SmartLipo is one of the most versatile cosmetic procedures around.  Appropriate for nearly any area of unwanted fat, common SmartLipo sites include the arms, back, love handles, midsection and thighs.
4. Skin tightening. One of the most important benefits of SmartLipo is the added skin tightening effects of the procedure.  Beyond permanent fat removal, SmartLipo helps tighten and recontour the body.

SmartLipo in Lawrenceville

Ready to find out what SmartLipo can do for you?  Take the first step – contact us today and schedule a consultation.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly 770-817-2592. We look forward to meeting you soon.

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4 Cosmetic Procedures You May Not Know About!

November 12th, 2012

When we hear the term “cosmetic procedure,” our mind will immediately go to “the big ones” – BOTOX®, Juvéderm, etc. But, did you know that modern cosmetic dermatology offers a myriad of treatments, suited to nearly any skin concerns a patient may be facing? Because we want every patient to know their options, we thought we would share a few of today’s lesser-known treatments. Want to find out what you’ve been missing?

Here is our list of 4 Cosmetic Procedures You May Not Know About:

1. SmartLipo™: While many patients have heard of liposuction before, not everyone knows what cutting-edge SmartLipo is all about! Often considered the gold standard in combating stubborn, exercise-resistant fat, SmartLipo achieves not only permanent fat removal, but also the added benefit of skin tightening. A modern alternative to traditional liposuction, common SmartLipo areas include the waist, hips, thighs, arms and more.
2. Adult Acne Treatment: While we typically associate acne with those in their teenage years, more and more women are finding themselves dealing with clogged pores and pimples later in life. A common and treatable condition, our practice offers comprehensive adult acne treatment using a combination of topical creams, antibiotics, isotretinoin and/or oral contraceptives. A condition that can affect both a woman’s appearance and self-esteem, treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation and preventing future blemishes.
3. Radiesse®: While you’ve likely heard of Juvéderm® or Restylane®, Radiesse may be new to you. Quickly becoming one of today’s most popular soft tissue fillers, Radiesse is composed of microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite in a water-based gel. A mineral similar to those found in bones, these microspheres stimulate the production of collagen, smooth wrinkles and promote an overall more youthful appearance.
4. Age Spot Removal: Far too many folks assume that age spots are an inevitable part of aging. In reality, patients today don’t have to struggle with these troublesome areas of discoloration – cosmetic dermatology offers several solutions. One of the most popular continues to be a chemical peel. Removing the damaged outer layers of skin, peels promote a more even skin tone and a healthy, glowing complexion.

Cosmetic Dermatologist in Lawrenceville

Ready to find out what cosmetic dermatology can do for you? Contact us today and schedule your consultation. Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592. We look forward to meeting you.

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Considering Lip Enhancement Surgery? Read This First!

November 5th, 2012

When patients are living with flat, dull or inadequate lips, they’ll often assume that an invasive plastic surgery procedure is their only option – along with general anesthesia and a lengthy recovery.  Many are surprised to learn that cosmetic dermatology offers a quick, simple and most importantly, minimally-invasive alternative to lip implants:  Restylane® for lip enhancement.

If Restylane sounds familiar, it’s likely for its proven track record as one of today’s most popular wrinkle treatments.  Now, this soft tissue filler is also taking its place as a cutting-edge lip enhancement solution. In fact, according to the manufacturer’s website, “Restylane is the first and only FDA-approved dermal filler for lip enhancement in patients over 21 years.”  So, what’s all the buzz about?

Here is our list of the Top 5 Benefits of Restylane Lip Enhancement:

1. Less invasive. Unlike lip implants, Restylane is a minimally-invasive injectable procedure.  And, while not a permanent solution, the results of Restylane can often last up to several months.
2. Versatile. Whether you’re dealing with thin lips, disproportionate lips or lips lacking definition, Restylane has got you covered.
3. Achieve a youthful appearance. Full, plump lips exude a healthy, youthful look.  In fact, according to fashion and beauty magazine, Redbook, full lips can make you look as much as 5 years younger!
4. Trusted ingredients. Restylane is a formulation of hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural substance found in all living organisms. In humans, HA is used to provide volume and fullness to the skin.
5. Boost confidence. Let’s face it, full lips are beautiful lips.  And, following treatment, countless Restylane patients report increased self esteem and boosted self confidence.

Lip Enhancement in Lawrenceville

Ready to find out what Restylane lip enhancement can do for you?  Take the first step – contact us today and schedule your consultation.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592.  We look forward to meeting you.

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Demystifying BOTOX® | Top 5 Myths Revealed

November 2nd, 2012

BOTOX – by now, almost everyone has heard of this cutting-edge injectable.  A simple, minimally-invasive answer to fine lines and wrinkles, BOTOX is also a procedure surrounded by myths and half-truths.  Frequently represented – and misrepresented – in film and television, do you know what America’s number-one cosmetic treatment is really all about?  Let’s take a moment to set the record straight!

Here is our list of today’s Top 5 BOTOX Myths Revealed:

1. Myth: BOTOX creates a “frozen,” unnatural look.
   Fact: One of the most common misconceptions about BOTOX is that it’s only capable of creating a distorted or frozen look.  In reality, when applied properly and conservatively, BOTOX can achieve a remarkably natural, youthful appearance.
2. Myth: BOTOX is only popular among women.
   Fact: While BOTOX is typically associated with its popularity among female patients, men today are also realizing the benefits of the treatment.  In fact, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were over 360,000 male BOTOX procedures performed in 2011, alone.
3. Myth: BOTOX must be painful.
   Fact: Because BOTOX is so effective, many assume the procedure must be very painful or subject patients to a lengthy recovery.  On the contrary, BOTOX is administered using exceptionally fine needles and many patients find the treatment quite tolerable.  What’s more, since BOTOX is completely minimally-invasive, there is little to no downtime, and patients can often return to their regular activities immediately following the procedure.
4. Myth: BOTOX and fillers are the same thing.
   Fact: While BOTOX injections and fillers like Restylane® are both powerful wrinkles treatments, how they work varies slightly.  BOTOX is essentially a muscle relaxer best suited for dynamic lines like crow’s feet and horizontal lines across the forehead.  For deeper, more persistent lines, fillers are often the better option, working to “fill in” the valleys of creases.
5. Myth: BOTOX is right for everyone.
   Fact: The best way to find out if BOTOX is right for you is to schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dermatologist.  This is the best way to assess your cosmetic goals and find out the best course of treatment for you.

BOTOX Injections in Lawrenceville

Ready to have your BOTOX questions answered?  Contact us today and schedule a consultation.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592.  We look forward to meeting you.

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Top 5 Skin Concerns Among Men

October 26th, 2012

Gone are the days when cosmetic procedures were only popular among female patients.  Today, men and women alike have also embraced treatments like BOTOX®, fillers and liposuction.  And, with more and more guys coming into our offices every day, we thought we would take a moment to address some of their top skin concerns.  Want to know what other men are doing about it?

Here is our list of the Top 5 Skin Concerns Among Men, along with a few ways cosmetic dermatology can help.

1. I’m starting to see wrinkles around my eyes and forehead. Wrinkles are, by far, the most common skin complaint among men today.  Making men look old – and even worse, feel old – BOTOX can often be an ideal wrinkle treatment.  Essentially a muscle relaxer, BOTOX works to diminish the appearance of crow’s feet, lines across the forehead and more.
2. I can’t seem to shake these love handles. When diet and exercise simply aren’t cutting it, SmartLipo™ is often the best solution.  Working to remove fat and tighten skin, this procedure is one of the best ways to tackle unwanted inches from the midsection, love handles and more.
3. I can’t stand these acne scars. Years of struggling with acne can leave men with noticeable, troublesome acne scars.  Thankfully, there are several ways cosmetic dermatology can help.  One of the most popular ways is microdermabrasion.  Using a gentle stream of fine particles, microderm removes the damaged outer layers of the skin and promotes a smoother, more even complexion.
4. What can I do about this unwanted hair? Unwanted hair isn’t something only women deal with – it can also be particularly troubling for men today. And, when patients are looking to accomplish permanent hair reduction, we will often recommend laser hair removal.  Using special light energy, the procedure is particularly popular in treating the back, abdomen and virtually any other area with excess hair growth.
5. I don’t want to compromise my natural looks. When men come in for a cosmetic consultation, one of the most common concerns we’ll hear is, “I don’t want to look like I’ve had work done.”  This is why our practice employs a conservative approach when using fillers like Juvédern® or Restylane®.  By precisely and moderately incorporating these injectable treatments, we can achieve a more youthful look, without compromising a man’s natural, masculine appearance.

Male Cosmetic Dermatologist in Lawrenceville

To learn more about these or any of the procedures we offer, contact us today and schedule a consultation.  Our offices are located in Lawrenceville, and you can reach us directly at 770-817-2592.  We look forward to meeting you.

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