INJECTABLES
NEUROTOXINS (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Nuceiva, Letybo)
Key Purpose
Relax dynamic wrinkles
Duration
3 months on average
Onset
2 weeks
Down Time
None
What are neurotoxins?
Neurotoxins, commonly referred to by their brand names (ie. Botox, Dysport, etc), is a group of prescription medications derived from Botulinum Toxin A, derived from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum.
How does it work?
Neurotoxins work by blocking nerve signals in muscles, leading to temporary paralysis or weakened muscle activity. In cosmetic applications, it is commonly injected into facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by preventing muscle contractions. The effects are temporary, in which repeat treatment is necessary to maintain results.
The treatment is dosed in units, and the number of units required is determined by a personalized assessment of your muscle size, strength, and desired results.
Where can it be used?
Most commonly, the upper face is treated with neurotoxins: frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet. There are many other areas that neurotoxins can be placed in other parts of the face and neck. It is important to remember that there are muscles that pull upwards and downwards in the face, and we want to relax only the muscles that are causing lines, not ones that are functional muscles.
Neurotoxins can also be used to treat hyperhidrosis (excess sweating) of the under arms, palms, feet, and scalp. It can also be used in certain skin conditions or in the Glass Facial. Ask your provider if neurotoxins are appropriate for your concerns.
Is Botox safe?
Yes - Botox is actually one of the most studied drugs in the world. It has been used since 1970s and there are millions of Botox treatments performed world wide every year.
With any procedure, there are always risks that will be reviewed with you prior to injection. A review of your health history and medications are necessary for your provider to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment.
DERMAL FILLER
Key Purpose
Replace lost volume, contour the face
Duration
4-12 months on average
Onset
Immediate
Down Time
2 weeks for healing
What is dermal filler?
Dermal filler is a hyaluronic acid-based sterile gel. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain moisture and plumpness - if you've heard of it in skin care, it is the same molecule. Dermal fillers are used to add volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. They are a popular cosmetic treatment for addressing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and lost facial volume.
How does it work?
Your injector will assess your facial features and work with you to determine a plan to achieve your desired result. The type of dermal filler used will depend on the area being treated - ie. a thick filler will be used on bone to augment cheeks, whereas a thinner, more natural looking filler will be used in the lips.
Dermal fillers are injected under the skin with either a needle or cannula. Dermal fillers are not permanent, and maintenance injections are often needed to sustain the desired results. The frequency of touch-up treatments varies depending on the type of filler used and individual factors.
Where can it be used?
Dermal fillers can be used anywhere in the face to replace lost facial volume and enhance contours. An important distinction between the use of dermal filler and Botox is Botox relaxes wrinkles caused by muscle movement , where dermal fillers are used for age-related volume changes.
Common places dermal fillers are used are temples, cheeks, under eyes, jaw line, chin, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and lips.
Are dermal fillers safe?
When administered by a trained medical professional, dermal fillers can be very safe. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. Serious complications are rare but can include infection or allergic reactions.
PCDC FAT DISSOLVING (Kybella, Belkyra)
Key Purpose
Reduce pockets of fat
Duration
Typically permanent,
3-6 sessions recommended
Onset
12 weeks
Down Time
2 weeks for social down time due to swelling
What is PCDC?
PCDC stands for phosphatidylcholine deoxycholate. This is the active ingredient in brand names like Kybella and Belkyra. PCDC is found naturally in our digestive systems and aids in the breakdown of dietary fats.
When injected into pockets of subcutaneous fat, the treated fat cells are permanently destroyed and naturally eliminated by the body over time. Results become noticeable gradually as the body processes the fat.
How does it work?
PCDC is administered through a series of injections into the targeted fat area. The damaged fat cells are then excreted by the lymphatic system. The number of sessions required can vary based on individual factors, but multiple treatments are typically needed for optimal results.
Where can it be used?
PCDC can be used on any superficial fat pocket where you can "pinch an inch". Most commonly, it is used for submental fat ("double chin"), bra bulge, lower abdomen, inner thighs, armpit puff, back of arms, and banana roll. Please note that best results can be expected from candidates with small stubborn pockets of fat, and is not meant for large areas - the maximum area treated is approximately the size of two palms.
Is PCDC safe?
When administered by a trained medical professional, PCDC can be very safe. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. There may be some social down time depending on area treated.
PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP)
Key Purpose
Improve skin quality, reduce healing time, reduce dark circles, hair growth
Duration
3 sessions then yearly maintenance
Onset
2 weeks +
Down Time
24-48 hours
What is platelet rich plasma (PRP)?
Platelet rich plasma is derived from your own blood. A blood sample is taken, then spun down in a centrifuge, whereas then the PRP can be extracted. Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood, and platelets are blood cells called to an injured area and is responsible for clotting. PRP contains cytokines, growth factors, healing factors, and proteins.
Is aesthetic medicine, PRP can be injected, microneedled, or stamped into the skin for a variety of cosmetic purposes: skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, scar improvement, under eye darkness, and collagen stimulation.
How does it work?
As we age, our cells accumulate damage and lose the ability to repair itself (ex. skin that has been exposed to stressors like UV rays, environmental pollutants). Clinically, this looks like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity, skin thinning, texture changes, and scarring. Concentrated platelets activate growth factors that stimulate reparative cells, enhancing the body's natural healing process. Growth factors can also stimulate collagen, an important protein found in all tissues, that degrades as we age. Damaged cells are then regenerated, revealing better skin quality.
Where can it be used?
PRP is commonly used with microneedling treatments, for hair restoration, under eye rejuvenation, and as a "natural filler".
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PRP microneedling: PRP is pushed into the upper layers of the skin (either by microneedling pen or radiofrequency microneedling) in order to address surface concerns. Combining with the collagen induction properties of microneedling, you will see an improved result and reduced down time. This method is also ideal for treating scars.
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PRP hair restoration: When injected into the scalp, PRP can stimulate hair follicles to grow. This is an excellent treatment option for men and women who are experiencing undesired thinning of hair.
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Under eye rejuvenation: Not everyone is a candidate for under eye filler, and sometimes PRP is a better option. If you have dark circles under your eyes, PRP can increase collagen in this thin-skin area to reduce the show of blood vessels underneath that contribute to darkness.
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"Natural filler": Due to its biostimulatory effects on collagen, some areas of the face can be treated with PRP to boost skin thickness and reduce wrinkling.
Is PRP safe?
Yes! PRP is a derivative of your own blood, therefore there is very little chance of reaction. With any procedure, there are certain risks involved and these will be explained to you prior to undergoing the procedure.
IV WELLNESS THERAPY + WELLNESS SHOTS
Key Purpose
Energy, reduce fatigue, improve immunity, assist in weight loss
Duration
Monthly
Onset
Variable
Down Time
None
What is IV wellness therapy?
IV wellness therapy is an infusion of vitamins, electrolytes, amino acids, and coenzymes directly into the blood stream via an intravenous catheter. Advantages of IV therapy over oral supplementation include a much higher absorption rate and bioavailability of nutrients to your cells. By bypassing the digestive system, a greater amount can be infused and circumvent malabsorption or gastrointestinal upset.
How does it work?
An IV catheter will be placed in your arm, and the solution infuses over 30-45 minutes. You will be monitored throughout to ensure you are tolerating the treatment. Each IV bag contains 500mL of normal saline, then the additive.
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Boost: Contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, and vitamin C. Good for overall wellness, dehydration, energy, and general fatigue.
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Glow: Contains glutathione. Known as the "master antioxidant", glutathione combats free radicals in the body. It may also have implications in skin appearance.
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Immunity: Contains high dose vitamin C. Best for recovering from or preventing illness, or pre or post surgery.
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Youth: Contains NAD+. This coenzyme naturally depletes as we age, as has been implicated in brain health and cellular aging. Please note this infusion typically takes 2.5-3 hours to complete.
What are wellness shots?
Wellness shots are intramuscular injections containing vitamins and/or amino acids. This allows for rapid absorption of the solution. It does not offer the hydration or variety that can be infused via IV therapy, but specific nutrients can be administered this way.
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B12: Contains vitamin B12. This vitamin is often used for energy, better sleep, and dietary supplementation in vegans/vegetarians.
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Lipotropic MIC: Contains methionine, inositol, choline, and B12. The amino acids aid the liver in breaking down fats and can potentially lead to an increased metabolism and weight loss.