Subtle Tweaks Can Make a Big Difference

Botox ChicagoWhen you think of a Chicago plastic surgeon, you probably think of surgical procedures like liposuction and breast augmentations. However, plastic surgeons do a lot more than surgery for patients who do not want to visit the operating table. In fact, there are a number of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures that can have wonderful effects. Most nonsurgical procedures are performed on the face to create subtle lifts, contours, and fullness that, while only changing your face slightly, have a dramatic effect on your appearance.

Nonsurgical cosmetic procedures have only grown in popularity over recent years. In fact, a new report out of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shows that the top five most popular minimally invasive procedures all increased in popularity from 2013 to 2014. Altogether, more than 13.9 million nonsurgical cosmetic procedures were performed in 2014.

The most popular nonsurgical procedure is Botox. Chicago plastic surgeons performed some of the 6.7 million Botox treatments received in the United States last year. The effects of Botox last for about three months and can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Botox is also used to help reduce chronic headaches and migraines.

Next on the list are dermal fillers like Juvederm, Perlane, Restylane, and Voluma. Like Botox, dermal fillers are also temporary, and usually last anywhere from 6 to 24 months depending on the product used. A board certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Niki Christopoulos, can use fillers to help skin look more supple and youthful. Men sometimes use fillers to make their chins and jaw lines look more pronounced, and women often use fillers in their cheeks and lips to create a subtle, youthful glow.

Many people considering cosmetic surgery love that procedures like Botox and dermal fillers are not permanent. This allows men and women who might be worried about their results to try out new procedures without fear. And as the numbers show, most people end up coming back for more treatments down the line.

As with any medical procedure, the most important choice is selecting a plastic surgeon who will provide you with the customized results you’re looking for. No two people are like, so your plastic surgeon should treat you like an individual and take the time to get to know your goals and wishes.

Dr. Niki Christopoulos takes the time to get to know each of her patients. Schedule an initial consultation today to meet with Dr. Christopoulos and discover your options for nonsurgical rejuvenation.

Real Answers from Dr. Niki: June 2015 Edition

I want to address my crow’s feet once and for all. What’s my best option? How often will I need to get treatments?

NonSurgical Treatment in ChicagoThe first thing to do if you’ve started to notice deepening crow’s feet is to look for the causes. Crow’s feet are most commonly caused by too much sun exposure. Whenever you’re out in the sun, be sure to wear sunscreen, and maybe invest in a few hats to protect your delicate facial skin from the sun’s harsh rays.

Crow’s feet are also commonly caused by squinting. The easiest way to keep yourself from squinting is to make sure that your glasses or contact prescription is up-to-date and that you wear sunglasses whenever you are outside on a bright day. Smoking can also contribute to crow’s feet.

Of course, treating your skin right won’t take away the damage that’s already been done. If your crow’s feet make you self-conscious, the easiest way to address the problem is with Botox. Chicago plastic surgeons skilled in Botox injections can help you reduce the appearance of wrinkles around your eyes without taking any surgical steps. Just be sure to choose a board certified plastic surgeon who has a lot of experience administering Botox. Every person’s wrinkles are different, so it’s important to choose someone who has a lot of experience providing patients with careful, finely-tuned results.

Botox works by relaxing the muscles underneath the skin. The effects last for about three months, so you’ll need to come back three or four times a year to maintain your results.

Other nonsurgical treatments in Chicago for crow’s feet include laser resurfacing and chemical peels. These can be good options if your crow’s feet are deeply set. Botox will go a long way toward reducing crow’s feet, but sometimes an extra step is needed to provide the results that patients are hoping for.

You may choose to combine crow’s feet treatments with an eye lift in order to obtain the most dramatic results. Our eyes tend to reveal our age more than any other part of our body, so treatments directed at the eye area usually have very beneficial results.

Learn more about the surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for crow’s feet and other cosmetic issues by scheduling a consultation with my office today. I’ll take the time to answer questions you may have about your crow’s feet treatment options and also address any concerns.

Your Pre-Holiday Non-Surgical Rejuvenation Options

The holidays are upon us, and that means office parties, family gatherings, and meeting up with old friends. It’s a time of year when we all want to look our best, and doing so has never been easier with non-surgical rejuvenation options.

Rejuvenating your face used to mean a facelift. While facelifts have come a long way and can be a great choice under the right circumstances, many men and women find the commitment of a face lift just plain scary. Thankfully, that’s where non-surgical treatments like Botox® , Xeomin and dermal fillers come in.

Botox® and Xeomin are purified proteins that are injected into the skin in order to prevent muscles from contracting. A Botox® treatment can be done over a lunch break and is extremely customizable. If you’re feeling self-conscious about your crow’s feet, a single Botox® treatment can make the wrinkles around your eyes appear significantly less noticeable. You’ll see the effects within a few days.

And the best part is, if you’re not entirely happy with the results, they’re only temporary. Botox® and Xeomin both wear off in about four months, so you can adjust your treatment plan however you like to keep laugh lines, neck wrinkles, crow’s feet, and deep forehead wrinkles in check.  The procedure is like a spa treatment that will leave you feeling more confident and relaxed the moment you walk out of the office.

Dermal fillers are another great non-surgical option for making your skin feel fuller, more hydrated, and more firm. Everyone at the holiday party will be jealous of the way your cheeks glow and how full your lips look in that new shade of lipstick. Little will they know that dermal fillers are the real hero. Like Botox®, the effects of dermal fillers are temporary but can last anywhere from 9 months to two years.  Also like Botox®, you can completely customize your treatment, focusing only on the areas of your face that you think need attention. As a result, you’ll be left with skin that looks naturally radiant and youthful.

To schedule a non-surgical rejuvenation appointment before your next holiday party or family gathering, contact the office of Dr. Niki Christopoulos to discuss what treatment options may be appropriate for your individual needs.