When you look in the mirror, does the reflection you see match the way you feel inside? If the answer is no, it might be time to talk about some options.
Plastic surgery can sound intimidating, but there are also many options that don’t involve surgery.
Some of the most popular non-surgical treatments are injectables, which include products like Botox (Botulinum toxin) and fillers. These can be a nice alternative for those who don’t need surgery yet, or those who are not good candidates for surgery.
Injectables are a fan favorite for many reasons. They are quick, easy and can make a big difference in a short amount of time. These products are safe and have a long history of rigorous testing.
Botox is a very popular option that relaxes the muscles that create fine lines and wrinkles. It offers vast improvements in the look of frown lines between your eyebrows, forehead lines and crow’s feet, but that’s just the beginning.
Botox is also great for diminishing those bands on your neck and the vertical lines around your mouth that cause lipstick to bleed. It only takes three to five days to kick in, so indulge just in time for that big event.
Another powerful tool includes a group of products called “fillers.” These are volumizers that can mask all sorts of bothersome issues, such as bags and dark circles under your eyes and smile lines that form parentheses around your mouth.
Fillers can even restore volume to your cheeks, lips and chin. There are many fillers on the market today, including Juvederm, Voluma and Sculptra.
As a plastic surgeon, it is nice to have a variety of options so I can tailor the treatment to the patient and the specific areas of his or her face.
Many patients ask me how much volume they need. I tell them a 1cc syringe of filler is equal to 1/5 of a teaspoon, so it’s often a fairly small amount. Many fillers work instantly, meaning patients can look in the mirror at my office and decide if they want more volume on the spot.
If you want to look like you, only better, there are many options to be considered. With any procedure, the key is finding the method that matches the patient in terms of expectations, recovery time and comfort level.
A plastic surgeon, who has been specially trained in the delicate anatomy and structure of the face, is the best person to evaluate which injectables might be right for you.
Dr. Audrey Klenke, the area’s only female plastic surgeon, is the owner of Pinnacle Plastic Surgery. She is a member of the medical staff at both Beaufort Memorial Hospital and Hilton Head Hospital.
