Minneapolis Dermatologists

Is PhotoRejuvenation Good for my Severe Dark Circles ?

I've tried many products but nothing seems to work with me, I searched on line and I found out about Photorejuvenation and IPL, but I have no ideia if it would finally work. I have had this Dark circles for almost 6 yrs, and it is getting worse.

A frustrating and very common problem!  In my experience, IPL is unfortunately not very helpful for dark circles under the eyes.  This tendency is largely genetic and may be more severe in those with allergies.  IPLis great for lightening pigment that is very close to the skin surface, however undereye circles often result from deeper causes.  Fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane may be helpful if part of the darkness is due to shadowing in the so-called tear trough. 

Kathryn R. Shrift, MD

Minneapolis Dermatologic Surgeon

Is Juvederm Recommended for a 73 Year Old?

I had one injection of Radiesse with minimal non-lasting results.Is Juvederm More Effective Than Radiesse? I have minimal wrinkles.

While Juvederm and other hyaluronic acid fillers are great choices for certain problems such as fine lines and the hollows under the eyes, it unfortunately is not more effective and in fact Radiesse tends to last a bit longer.  The most common reason for experiencing "minimal non-lasting results" is use of too little product in the initial treatment session.  Perhaps 2 or 3 syringes of Radiesse would have gotten you the results you were looking for.  If you're wanting the longest lasting option, then ask your physician about Sculptra, but be prepared to wait to see results, as improvements are not immediate.

Kathryn R. Shrift, MD

Minneapolis Dermatologic Surgeon

Botox in Upper Part and Fillers on Lower Part of Face?

I am 42 and have had Botox 4 years ago with a good result, but now I hate looking at my wrinkles. I need my brows, crows feet, smile lines, and my top lip is very liney. Do I need fillers in the lower part of my face and Botox in the top?

Thank you for asking these good questions.

Botox, or the new Dysport product, will work to help relax the lines around the eyes and upper part of your face. These neurotoxins also works in small doses around the mouth and jawline, if your muscle activity is strong and is causing smile lines, lip lines, or a pull at the corners of your mouth.

Dermal fillers, ie. Restylane, Perlane, Sculptra, Juvederm, may all be considerations to soften and restore smile lines, however they are capable of much more than this.

We will more often address the whole face, choosing to lift the cheek, thereby softening the folds, and restoring volume in the areas that are lacking, which will not only improve a deep smile line or specific concern, but provide overall a more youthful and softened appearance. These products are being used in the cheek and temple area as well as the smile line, and lower portion of the face to achieve such results.

Schedule a consultation with a practice that comes highly recommended to you in your area to receive more information about these products, treatment options, and costs associated. The combination of Botox/dermal fillers is the right direction for a young 42 year old woman, and may provide exactly the results you're hoping to achieve.

Sincerely,

Dr. Carney

Patrick S. Carney, MD

Minneapolis Dermatologist