Feel Like Your Best Self
Are you thinking about getting rid of those wrinkles and lines and achieve a more youthful-looking complexion? A skin care regimen with solid results has the ability to not only boost an individual’s confidence levels, but overall improve an individual’s quality of life. Wellness not only refers to how a patient feels on the inside but also how that is reflected on the outside. Autumn Groscost, Physician Assistant with St. Clair Medical Group Plastic Surgery expresses, “Our practice works to fully assess a patient during their consultations and manage goals to provide them with the best regimen for their individual needs.” Botox and Fillers can be a vital component that most people are missing. We tend to treat the surface of our skin—cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting it from the sun, but despite our best efforts, wrinkles, and fine lines happen as we age.
Each individual initially has a consultation with their medical expert to walk through the best treatment for you. The treatment process will include the following steps:
Step 1: Botox and Filler consultations should plan to be in the office for at least 30-45 minutes. This can vary depending on the patient’s areas of concern and the treatment required.
Step 2: Each patient is given a general medical intake sheet to complete prior to their visit. Patients are requested to share their current skin care regimen.
Step 3: Evaluations begin by asking the patient, “What bothers you the most?” and utilize a mirror to allow them to demonstrate and point out their concerns.
Step 4: Based on the evaluation, you then discuss the appropriate products that give the best outcomes. Injection sites, risks and complications, and general instructions for post-injection care are reviewed. The patient is provided with a price quote for the planned treatment.
Step 5: Topical anesthetic is applied for patients undergoing treatment with filler.
Step 6: Particularly with Filler treatments, a handheld mirror is utilized to allow patients to be interactive during the injections. Filler results can be seen immediately and it’s important for the patient to provide input through the process to achieve the results.
Step 7: Post-injection the patient is provided with an ice pack, if appropriate, and care instructions are reviewed.
“It’s important to feel comfortable with your provider and ask as many questions as possible. Many of our patients come in with the same questions,” says Autumn.
How long do the products last?
Botox lasts approximately three to four months and can take up to two weeks for full effect. Most patients notice a difference around one week with full results at two weeks.
Fillers can last anywhere from six months to one year depending on the product.
How much do the products cost?
Our office charges Botox by the unit. An average treatment generally utilizes 30-40 units depending on the patient’s areas of concern.
Fillers are purchased by the syringe (1 ml/syringe) and patients can generally require 1-2 syringes per treatment depending on the areas of concern. Prices vary depending on the product.
Will I have any restrictions before or after treatment?
For both Botox and Filler consultations, patients should avoid aspirin-containing products for at least a week prior to injection. This reduces the risk of bruising.
For patients seeking consultation for lip Fillers the office staff may ask if you have a history of cold sores. Patients with active lesions or breakouts in the area they are seeking treatment should let the office know prior to the visit. In some instances you may be prescribed a medication to take before and after to reduce your risk of infection.
Patients who undergo treatment with Fillers should modify their activities post-injection; no vigorous activities or exercise for 24 hours.
Are the injections painful?
Both products are injected using needles and can feel like a “pinch” or a “bee sting”. Most Filler products are mixed with an anesthetic allowing the patient to feel more comfortable after the initial injection.
If you are interested in learning more about how Botox or Fillers may improve your appearance, smooth facial creases, and bolster your overall confidence, visit our website by clicking here or speak with our office today by calling 412.572.6164.