How Do Sculptra Injections Work?

August 10, 2024/by Dr. David Sieber

Sculptra injections are a popular injectable choice for those seeking fewer lines and wrinkles and a solution to loss of facial volume. Unlike traditional fillers that offer immediate results, Sculptra works differently, with effects that unfold over time. This ultimately provides longer-lasting benefits.

But how exactly do Sculptra injections work? Let’s dive into the science behind this innovative treatment option that’s actually been around for decades.

Sculptra Injections: An Overview

Sculptra is a unique injectable treatment designed to stimulate the body’s production of natural collagen. It is composed of poly L lactic acid (PLLA), which is a synthetic substance that has been used in various medical applications for decades. It is actually what dissolvable stitches are made of.

When injected into the skin, Sculptra works beneath the surface to gradually stimulate collagen production and replace lost collagen. It’s a collagen stimulator that gives you more volume and helps improve your appearance by removing wrinkles and fine lines and making you look younger.

Unlike other dermal fillers (hyaluronic acid or HA), natural collagen production takes time with Sculptra, so you won’t see results for a few weeks.

How Sculptra Stimulates Collagen Production

Before diving into how Sculptra works, it’s important to understand the role of collagen in the aging process. Collagen is a structural protein that keeps our skin firm, plump, and youthful. However, as we age, collagen production decreases.

Sculptra (poly L lactic acid) works by addressing the root cause of volume loss — diminished collagen production.

Your surgeon will first inject the poly L lactic acid. After injection, Sculptra doesn’t provide an immediate “filling” effect. Instead, over time, new fibroblasts are stimulated, and these produce new collagen fibers, which help restore the skin’s inner structure and volume.

As the body naturally metabolizes the poly L lactic acid particles, they are replaced with newly formed collagen. This process usually begins to show visible results within a few weeks to months, with optimal results typically seen after several treatment sessions. Most patients do well with at least two or three sessions. Note that this is not necessarily the case with other hyaluronic acid fillers.

Sculptra Treatment Process

Sculptra treatments are generally straightforward. Here’s what to expect during a typical Sculptra aesthetic treatment session:

1. Consultation Appointment

The process begins with a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon to discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your skin, and determine if Sculptra is the right treatment for you. Some patients may require allergy testing and additional exams to ensure they will benefit from a Sculptra treatment plan.

2. Preparation

On the day of the procedure, the treatment area is cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort. Out of all cosmetic procedures, injectables typically come with the least amount of pain.

3. Injections

The Sculptra solution, which is mixed with sterile water before injection, is then administered into the predetermined areas using fine needles. During and after your cosmetic procedure, your surgeon may massage the area to evenly distribute the product.

4. Additional Treatments

To achieve a more youthful appearance, Sculptra typically requires a series of treatments, spaced about four to six weeks apart. The number of sessions varies depending on individual needs and the extent of treatment needed to restore volume. Some patients pair their facial rejuvenation with another type of cosmetic injection (other injectable treatments) or laser treatments.

Where Can Sculptra Be Used?

Sculptra Facial Injections

Most patients want Sculptra to be used on their face. It’s a common injectable to be used to add lost volume. So, many patients use it near the temples, around the mouth (to correct marionette lines or laugh lines/smile lines), or near the eyes to help with bags. Your surgeon will help determine if this or another injectable treatment is best for your pain points.

Sculptra Butt Injections

Sculptra butt injections can be highly effective at restoring volume to the buttocks as well. Naturally, Sculptra is not instantly restoring volume (or adding it for the first time). But again, it will stimulate collagen production, which can help with volume and projection loss. Some patients like it for evening out hip dips.

If you are interested in this procedure, search for “Sculptra butt injections near me” on Google. Note that typically, Sculptra butt injections cost a different amount when compared with Sculptra facial injections.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Sculptra?

Sculptra is an excellent option for individuals who want to restore facial volume (or volume elsewhere, such as on the buttocks and hips), smooth facial wrinkles, and improve skin texture without undergoing invasive surgery. It is a unique dermal filler, unlike hyaluronic acid, in that it comes with long-lasting results (up to two years), so it’s good for patients who are looking for a more permanent outcome.

Still, Sculptra may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals who have ongoing medical conditions or other physical ailments may require additional testing.

FAQ: Sculptra Injections

How many treatments will I need with Sculptra?

Most patients require at least two Sculptra treatment sessions to achieve their goals. Some may even require additional treatment sessions if they have extensive volume loss or require other cosmetic benefits.

Where can I get Sculptra injections near me?

Many plastic surgeons who offer injectables, including Botox, hyaluronic acid, etc. will also perform Sculptra injections.

Request a Consultation Appointment with Dr. Sieber

Interested in Sculptra San Francisco? Remember that Sculptra cannot be dissolved if mistakes are made or you don’t like your results. This is why it’s crucial to have your injections administered by a skilled and experienced professional. It will minimize your risk and ensure the best possible outcome.

Call today to schedule your one-on-one consultation appointment with double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber. Dr. Sieber performs Sculptra injections and many other dermal filler injections and plastic surgery procedures. Contact us today to set up your appointment.

References

https://www.sculptrausa.com/sculptra-science

Blepharoplasty Before and After FAQs

Articles

August 6, 2024/by Dr. David Sieber

When you decide to undergo blepharoplasty before and after the surgery, it’s common to be somewhat nervous. Patients are frequently wary beforehand — concerned about undergoing the surgery itself. But it’s equally common to be nervous about the eyelid surgery recovery period following your procedure.

Below, we’ve listed some frequently asked questions about this procedure and what you can expect before and after your surgical experience.

Before Blepharoplasty FAQs

1. Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?

Ideal candidates are individuals with droopy eyelids, excess skin, or lower eyelid bags beneath their eyes. Candidates should also be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about plastic surgery in general. In certain cases, patients will need further testing to ensure they are good candidates.

2. What should I do to prepare for blepharoplasty?

Preparation generally includes avoiding certain medications like blood thinners, arranging for someone to drive you home after your procedure, and following other specific pre-operative instructions provided by your plastic surgeon.

3. How should I choose a surgeon for blepharoplasty?

Look for a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in this procedure. Review their before and after photos closely, and read past patient testimonials. Finally, schedule a consultation to discuss your ultimate goals.

4. What can I expect during my consultation?

During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your eyelid condition, discuss your goals, and determine if you’re a good candidate. They will also explain the procedure, the side effects and risks, and the typical recovery process.

5. Will my surgery leave visible blepharoplasty scars?

Blepharoplasty scars should be minimal since incisions are typically made within the natural creases of the eyelids or inside the lower eyelid. Over time, scars will fade and ultimately, should become nearly invisible.

6. How long does a blepharoplasty procedure take?

Double eyelid surgery generally takes about one to three hours, depending on whether you’re having upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both procedures.

7. Are there risks associated with blepharoplasty?

As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, dry eyes, and asymmetrical or poor results (bad scarring). Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before your procedure.

8. Can blepharoplasty be combined with other procedures?

Yes, blepharoplasty is often combined with other facial procedures, such as a facelift or brow lift surgery.

9. What is the cost of eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery cost varies depending on the surgeon, location, and extent of surgery. It’s important to discuss all fees at your consultation. We cannot provide cost estimates here.

After Blepharoplasty FAQs

1. What will my eyelids look like immediately after surgery?

Expect swelling, bruising, and some redness around the incision sites. These effects are temporary and typically subside within a few weeks.

2. How should I care for my eyes post-surgery?

Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions, which may include applying cold compresses, keeping your head elevated, and using prescribed eye drops or ointments.

3. How long is the recovery period after blepharoplasty?

Most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks, but it may be longer before you can do things like exercise.

4. Will I need follow-up appointments after blepharoplasty?

Follow-up visits are essential to monitor your healing process following surgery. Your surgeon will schedule these appointments at intervals to ensure your recovery is on track.

5. Will my blepharoplasty results be permanent?

Blepharoplasty offers long-lasting results, but it doesn’t stop the aging process. Over time, the effects of gravity and aging may cause additional changes. For now, you can expect your results to last at least a few years.

6. What if I’m not satisfied with my results?

If you have concerns about your results, discuss them with your surgeon. In some cases, a revision surgery may be considered to achieve your desired outcome, or you may decide to look elsewhere for a revision.

7. Can I wear makeup after blepharoplasty?

You can typically resume wearing makeup about two to four weeks following surgery. You must wait until the incisions have healed and your surgeon gives the go-ahead.

8. Will blepharoplasty improve my vision?

If your droopy eyelids were obstructing your vision, blepharoplasty could improve your eyesight. However, many people seek this procedure for cosmetic purposes alone.

FAQ: Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty

Have any celebrities undergone blepharoplasty?

You’ll certainly be able to find some celebrity blepharoplasty before and after photos online. Unfortunately, most celebs aren’t upfront with their plastic surgery experiences, so it’s not common to find stars who will openly admit to this surgery.

What’s the difference between bilateral lower blepharoplasty and an upper blepharoplasty procedure?

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty improves the appearance and function of the upper eyelids. Many patients struggle with vision impairment because of sagging upper eyelids. Likewise, drooping upper eyelids can cause patients to have a tired appearance and look older and less alert. Bilateral upper lid blepharoplasty (bilateral upper blepharoplasty) can improve the upper eyelids by removing excess upper eyelid skin (upper lid skin) and fat and tightening the surrounding eye muscles.

On the other hand, bilateral lower lid blepharoplasty (lower eyelid blepharoplasty) primarily improves the function and appearance of the lower eyelids. For the most part, lower blepharoplasty helps to eliminate or improve under eye bags and reduce sagging of the lower lid by getting rid of redundant skin and excess fat and tightening the surrounding muscles.

To see examples of each surgery, we recommend looking up upper blepharoplasty before and after photos and lower blepharoplasty before and after photos online.

Request a Consultation Appointment with Dr. Sieber

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber performs upper and lower blepharoplasty procedures for patients at his San Francisco practice. Eyelid surgery can completely transform your appearance while still maintaining a natural look. It’s also a wonderful procedure for helping to improve your vision if vision impairment has been a problem due to droopy upper eyelids.

Please contact us at your earliest convenience to set up your first one-on-one consultation appointment with Dr. Sieber.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blepharoplasty/about/pac-20385174

What Do Blepharoplasty Scars Look Like?

Articles

August 3, 2024/by Dr. David Sieber

The good news about blepharoplasty scars is that they are only seldom visible at all. In fact, most patients couldn’t even find their own healed blepharoplasty scars if we asked them to.

Still, we certainly understand that patients want to know what to expect in terms of where their blepharoplasty incisions will be located, how big the incisions will be, and what the recovery process is like in general. Let’s take a closer look.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty, also referred to as upper eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to correct problems of the upper eyelids. Primarily, the goal of this surgery is to remove excess eyelid skin on the upper lids and restore a more youthful, rested appearance.

Upper Eyelid Surgery Procedure Steps

Upper eyelid surgery begins with your surgeon marking the areas where excess skin and fat are to be removed. Anesthesia is the administered for patient comfort.

Incisions are made in the natural folds of the upper eyelids. Excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle are then excised to eliminate sagging and achieve the desired look. The incisions are finally closed with sutures.

Upper Blepharoplasty Scars

Because incision lines are made within the crease of the upper eyelid, you should not have noticeable upper eyelid scars after healing. See upper blepharoplasty before and after photos for examples of scar appearance after healing.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty, also called lower eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at addressing issues of the lower eyelids. It involves removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from the lower eyelids to reduce puffiness, dark circles, bags, and sagging. This procedure helps to create a smoother, more youthful appearance.

Lower Eyelid Surgery Procedure Steps

Lower eyelid surgery starts with your surgeon marking the area to be treated. Anesthesia is then administered to ensure comfort. Incisions are typically made along the lower lash line or inside the eyelid to minimize visible scarring.

Excess fat and skin are then carefully removed or repositioned to reduce puffiness and smooth out wrinkles. After making the necessary adjustments, the incisions are carefully closed with sutures.

Lower Blepharoplasty Scars

Because incisions will be made right along the lower lash line or even on the inside of the lower eyelid, it’s rare to have very noticeable lower eyelid scars after this procedure. See lower blepharoplasty before and after photos for examples of scar appearance after healing.

What to Expect During Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Each patient’s eyelid surgery recovery journey will be different. It’s important to sleep with your upper body and head elevated. Make sure you place pillows on either side of you so that you don’t roll.

Your board certified cosmetic surgeon will provide you with self-care instructions for the healing process. You should plan on having some help at home, and you’ll definitely need someone to take you home after surgery.

To minimize scarring, stay out of the sun, and consider using silicone gel or silicone scar sheets. Your delicate eyelid skin will heal best when you care for it gently and do not agitate the incision sites.

FAQ: Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

What is double eyelid surgery?

Double eyelid surgery, sometimes called Asian blepharoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure that creates a natural eyelid crease in patients who desire a more defined upper eyelid.

This is a common cosmetic surgery for patients of Asian descent. Minimal scarring results, and patients typically do very well during the healing process.

How much is blepharoplasty surgery?

Eyelid surgery cost will be different depending on the circumstances of your surgery. Your plastic surgeon will need to examine your eyelid skin and anatomy and determine where incisions will should be made.

He or she will discuss with you your goals for the outcome of surgery and any concerns you may have about eyelid surgery scars. Naturally, every plastic surgeon charges a different amount for their care. Cost may also vary by geographic location.

What if I end up with lumpy scars after blepharoplasty?

Lumpy or otherwise bad blepharoplasty scars are rare after the eyelid surgery healing process. If you do notice visible eyelid scars during your blepharoplasty recovery, talk to your plastic surgeon as soon as possible. Sometimes, steroid shots, laser therapy, or revision surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.

Schedule a Consultation Appointment Today

Are you tired of having trouble with your vision due to sagging eyelids? Ready to feel like you look like yourself again — alert, awake, and refreshed? Eyelid surgery on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both can dramatically improve your appearance in a natural way and without visible scarring.

Please get in touch with us today to schedule a personal consultation appointment for restorative or cosmetic eyelid surgery. Experienced board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber would be delighted to speak with you about your candidacy for this procedure and your options moving forward.

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/worried-about-surgery-scars-here-are-some-tips

Forehead Reduction Surgery Cost & Other FAQs

Articles

July 29, 2024/by Dr. David Sieber

Forehead reduction surgery cost is one of the primary topics patients have questions about at their consultation appointments with Dr. Sieber. Of course, other key questions arise as well. If you can have some semblance of the answers to these questions prior to your appointment, this can put you one step ahead of the game.

Below, we’ll go over the major things you should know about the cost of hairline lowering (forehead reduction surgery) as well as the answers to several other frequently asked questions about this procedure.

Forehead Reduction FAQs: Cost & Other Topics

How much does forehead reduction surgery cost?

As a major surgery that must be catered to the individual and is, therefore, different for every patient, it’s challenging to estimate the cost of this surgery. That is, Dr. Sieber must first see you in person in order to write up a comprehensive quote for the cost.

When you see Dr. Sieber, he will talk to you about your goals, assess your forehead and scalp laxity, and present to you your best options for care. Other considerations such as surgery location, anesthesia, pre-surgery tests, and post-surgery recovery costs will contribute to the overall cost of forehead reduction as well.

Who is a good candidate for forehead reduction surgery?

The best candidates for forehead reduction are those who are unhappy or uncomfortable with having a large forehead, high hairline, and/or uneven or asymmetrical hairline. Excess forehead skin is a cosmetic issue that can affect both men and women.

Patients need to be in good health and have no major medical concerns or ongoing treatments. For patients who smoke, they will need to cease smoking for at least several months prior to surgery and for several months after surgery. Ultimately, it will be Dr. Sieber who decides if you qualify as a good candidate for this surgery. This is usually done at your first consultation appointment.

What are the risks of forehead reduction surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks with forehead reduction. Fortunately, most patients do very well, as long as they choose an experienced and board certified plastic surgeon.

Major risks include infection, longterm visible scarring, hair loss around incision sites, longterm or permanent changes in sensation, and undesirable results.

What is the recovery time for forehead reduction surgery?

Forehead reduction surgery (hairline lowering surgery) typically takes an initial one to two weeks to recover from. After this time, patients can start to ease back into their normal routines, including work and regular daily activities. Do keep in mind that it may take longer to return to exercise and heavy lifting.

Will I have visible scars after hairline lowering surgery?

After a hairline lowering procedure, most patients can expect to have some scarring, but this should be concealed within the hairline. Similar to a brow lift or hair transplant surgery, your hair will cover the scars, concealing them almost completely.

As time goes on, most scars from hairline lowering surgeries should continue to fade and become less noticeable. More hair follicles should grow around and through the scars on the hair bearing scalp, and you should begin to find them nearly invisible. The vast majority of hairline lowering patients do not have visible scarring one year out from surgery.

Does forehead reduction surgery ever get botched?

Unfortunately, yes, forehead reduction surgeries can go wrong at times. To avoid forehead reduction surgery gone wrong, however, you must choose a plastic surgeon who is very experienced with this procedure and who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Only the best board certified plastic surgeons have the expertise and knowledge to perform this procedure safely and effectively. At the same time, not just any board certified plastic surgeon should performing your hairline lowering surgery. You must choose someone who has specific experience with hairline lowering, hair transplant procedures, and the facial plastic surgery procedure world in general, as these take a tremendous amount of skill.

Can forehead reduction surgery be combined with other procedures?

Yes, a forehead reduction procedure can certainly be combined with other procedures. Some patients may opt to get a brow lift or hair grafting after hair loss, for example. Even a facelift or neck surgery (neck lift) can sometimes be added to a hairline lowering procedure.

Combining facial procedures is beneficial because it can lower the ultimate cost (separate surgeries will ultimately cost more altogether). Furthermore, you will be combining and shortening recovery times as well.

Set Up a Consultation Appointment Today

We understand needing to know details about the pricing process for forehead reduction surgery. Planning ahead and having adequate information about cost and other important topics enables you to feel better prepared for the pre-surgery period, the operation itself, and forehead reduction recovery.

If you would like to learn more about the cost of forehead reduction surgery or have other questions about this procedure, please contact us today to book a consultation appointment with double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber.

References

https://www.carecredit.com/well-u/health-wellness/forehead-reduction-surgery/

Finding the Best Hair Transplant in USA

Articles

July 27, 2024/by Dr. David Sieber

The effects of hair loss can be crushing for both men and women. Those experiencing the loss of their hair often feel embarrassed and self-conscious, like they are losing a part of themselves. And in fact, they are in a way.

Fortunately, there are procedures that can provide a hair transplant for women and men in this position. They are actually quite common. You may know, for example, that the prevalence of celebrity hair transplant surgery is very frequent indeed (though most celebs don’t like to talk about it).

A qualified surgeon at the best hair transplant clinic in USA will be able to give you back a full, lush head of hair without any sign of surgery and with a strong and natural hairline. Of course, locating a surgeon who can adequately achieve this goal is harder than it may seen. Here are some tips for finding the best hair transplant in USA.

The Importance of Choosing From the Best Hair Transplant Surgeons in USA

Hair restoration surgery should not be taken lightly. In other words, only a highly qualified plastic surgeon should perform hair transplantation — one who has been board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who has performed hair loss treatment (hair transplants) many times.

There are very unique skills required to carefully remove hair grafts from donor locations and precisely transplant the hair follicles to where you are experiencing hair loss or male pattern baldness. You want someone who has been specifically trained in understanding natural hair growth and how to perform every stage of transplantation.

Use the following tips and advice to find such a well-qualified surgeon.

Ask about board certification.

Unfortunately, many med spas and other clinics will claim their clinicians can adequately perform this procedure when in reality, the clinicians are not board certified. This can mean that they lack the skill and training needed for these advanced procedures.

The truth is, board certification is a long and arduous process that not many professionals end up going through. But it’s worth it to find someone who is board certified (by the American Board of Plastic Surgery). They will be the best in terms of both technique and outcome and safety and ethics.

Review their patient testimonials.

After each hair restoration procedure they perform, most hair restoration surgeons will ask their patient to give a patient review or testimonial. These are often posted on the surgeons website for prospective patients (like you!) to read.

Whether a patient undergoes a follicular unit transplant, a follicular unit extraction (follicular unit excision), or another one of the hair restoration techniques available, you should be able to read a detailed review of their experience.

Research their practice’s reputation.

Look to third-party websites to read about your surgeon’s practice from a more objective point of view. There are several websites that will put past patient reviews and overall ratings for various medical facilities and practices. While these are not always trustworthy (use your best judgement), you can usually get a general idea of the reputation a hair transplant doctor has from these resources.

Assess their hair transplant before and after photos.

Before and after photos from your surgeon’s past surgical hair restoration procedures can show how they perform surgery, the success of their outcomes, and the hair transplant techniques they use most frequently.

You should see natural looking hairlines, lush full hair on the top and sides of the head, and patients who look great and like they haven’t experienced hair loss or hair thinning at all.

Consider their awards and recognitions.

It’s all the better if you can find a surgeon with many accolades to his or her name. This shows that they are concerned with ongoing education and showing their skill and expertise among their peers. It also shows recognition within the broader plastic surgery community.

FAQ: Hair Transplant Surgery and Surgeons

Does hair transplant surgery hurt?

The surgery itself will not hurt as anesthesia will be used. Recovery does involve some soreness.

What will my hair transplant look like after 10 years?

Typically, a hair transplant after 10 years has fared fairly well. You should still have your new follicles and hair shafts intact on the front and top of your hair after 10 years. Of course, occasionally, a patient will come in for an additional hair transplant procedure if they feel they are again experiencing hair loss or thinning hair.

How much does a hair transplant cost?

Ask your surgeon about cost at your consultation appointment. Pricing varies too much to offer a clear answer to this question online.

Where can I get a hair transplant near me?

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber performs hair restoration procedures at his San Francisco Bay Area practice. Please call our office today if you would like to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Sieber.

Where can I get the best FUE hair transplant?

FUE stands for follicular unit incision, and it is a technique used in many hair restoration procedures. Most plastic surgeons who perform hair transplant surgery will perform this type of procedure.

If you’re looking for the best FUE hair transplant in USA, you’ll want to search online for hair transplant plastic surgeons in your area (make sure they are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery), and give their office a call. Ask if they perform FUE hair transplant procedures, and if they do, book a consultation appointment to find out more.

Set Up a Consultation Appointment

Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber is one of the best hair transplant doctors in USA. Dr. Sieber frequently performs hair transplant surgery and has helped a multitude of patients regain their confidence and zest for life with a new full head of hair.

To learn more about hair transplant surgery and find out if you are a good candidate for this procedure, please contact our office today to schedule a one-on-one consultation appointment with Dr. Sieber.

References

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/hair-transplants