An Introduction to Dermatologic Cosmetic Procedures

An Introduction to Dermatologic Cosmetic Procedures

Everlasting youth is becoming more and more popular, and in an effort to fulfill this growing demand, Great Lakes Dermatology offers its patients a variety of cosmetic procedures: Botox, facial peels and cosmetic fillers among other things.

To help its patients gain a better understanding of these cosmetic procedures, Sarah Fellenz, a Nurse Practitioner with Great Lakes Dermatology, helps to break-down them down.

Botox

It’s derived from a protein complex purified from the neurotoxin Clostridium botulinum. When injected into muscles, Botox blocks nerve impulses, which prevents the release of acetylcholine. This causes temporary prevention of muscle contraction.

By restricting muscle contraction, Botox prevents wrinkles and limits some facial movement (frowning, scowling etc.)

  • After an initial consultation, cosmetic Botox injections will take approximately five minutes.
  • Botox results last for an average of two to four months.
  • On average, the area between the eyebrows, just above the nose, cost between $280 to $420 depending on the strength of your muscles.

Fellenz said while Botox is primarily seen as reducing wrinkles, it also serves other purposes.

“Botox can be used for a broad range of non-cosmetic purposes too,” Fellenz said.

According to Fellenz, in addition to temporarily preventing muscle contractions, Botox may also play a role with peripheral nerves by preventing the release of pain-stimulating neuropeptides.

Patients that suffer from Cervical Dystonia may have decreased neck pain after receiving Botox injections. Cervical Dystonia is a movement disorder that affects the neck and sometimes shoulders, causing the muscles to contract and spasm involuntarily.

According to Fellenz, Botox may also help relieve muscle stiffness in patients with upper limb spasticity.

It can be used for eyelid spasms, problems with eye muscles, as well as excessive underarm sweating.

Some patients, she said, even see a decrease in the frequency of migraine headaches after receiving Botox injections.

Facial Peels

These procedures utilize certain chemicals and acids to remove the outer layers of the skin. This evens out the texture and tone of the skin, creating smoother, younger looking skin.

  • After the initial consultation, facial peels generally take about 20 minutes.
  • To continue seeing the effects of smoother, younger looking skin, facial peels should be performed every four to six weeks, best in a series of three.
  • Facial peels range between $110 to $150 per session.

Dermal Fillers

Consist of a gel that is injected into the skin to restore volume loss in the face and hands, soften wrinkles and plump thinning lips. There are several different products available - ranging from temporary to semi-permanent. 

  • After the initial consultation, dermal fillers take about 15 minutes to perform.
  • On average, the dermal filler results can last for up to one year.
  • Dermal fillers range between $475 and $500 per syringe.

It is always important to know what to look for in a provider to perform these cosmetic procedures.

According to Fellenz, when deciding on a practitioner, it’s important to choose a medical facility with experienced providers that are prepared to address all questions.

The provider should take the time to review treatment expectations and discuss all treatment options – including risks and benefits.

“Prior to having the procedure done, you should feel confident that all of your questions were answered,” Fellenz said.

Contact Great Lakes Dermatology at (800) 227-5135 to schedule an appointment today.