Ancillary
or non-surgical cosmetic procedures have gained a great deal
of popularity in the past few years.
One
reason for their popularity is that non-surgical procedures
usually cost less than surgical procedures.
Sometimes
referred to in the media as "Lunch Time" or "Weekend"
procedures, many ancillary procedures can be completed in
a surgeon's office in less than an hour.
Some
of the more popular non-surgical procedures used at ‘The Cosmetic
Surgery Institute’ are mentioned above with their definitions
mentioned below:
Botox:
A neurotoxin which, when used in very low doses, relaxes
or temporarily paralyzes the contractive muscles which
cause frown lines. Treatment is non-surgical in the
form of injections which smooth deep persistent lines
between brows or in the forehead. Botox paralyzes facial
muscles, while Puragen fills in the space beneath wrinkles.
Each acts in a different way, but may be used to complement
each other.
Fillers:
Fillers are injectable materials used to fill in wrinkles
and other contour defects on the face.
The most commonly used filler is hyaluronic acid which
is a water soluble natural body protein. This is used
as dermal filler for taking care of wrinkles, deep lines
and to plump lips. The effect lasts for 4-6 months.
Dermal
filler is a great tool in facial rejuvenation and is
a popular option for people seeking non surgical options.
It can also be used along with surgical procedures.
Longer lasting fillers are undergoing clinical trials,
and would be available in the near future.
Permanent fillers like silicon injection are also available.
The long term results with these are not good enough
to justify their use.
Chemical
Peels:
A procedure often used to minimize sun-damaged skin,
irregular pigment, and superficial scars. The top layer
of skin is removed with a chemical application to the
skin. By removing the top layer, the skin regenerates,
often improving the skin's appearance.
This
non-surgical procedure is used in inducing new smoother,
youthful skin growth through the use of an acid solution,
usually trichloroacetic acid of 35-50%, which peels
the top layers of skin. The wrinkles caused by sun damage,
acne, smoking and aging can be effectively treatment
with this technique.
Contour
Threads:
Contour Threads™ are a patented self anchoring thread
technology that permits a minimally invasive surgical
approach for elevation and fixation of skin.
